15 Best Indoor Plants for Zone 6A

You’re about to discover why these 15 indoor plants thrive especially well in Zone 6A’s climate conditions. While outdoor temperatures fluctuate between -10°F and 95°F throughout the year, these resilient species maintain their vigor inside your home with minimal care. From the peace lily’s elegant white blooms to the snake plant’s towering leaves, each variety offers unique benefits that’ll transform your indoor space into a flourishing garden sanctuary.

1. Peace Lily Thrives Indoors

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) is a striking tropical plant that adapts exceptionally well to indoor environments in Zone 6A. Known for its elegant white blooms and glossy dark green foliage, this low-maintenance plant not only adds visual appeal but also helps purify indoor air by removing common household toxins. The peace lily‘s ability to thrive in lower light conditions and its clear signals when needing water make it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced indoor gardeners.

• Light: Moderate to low indirect light; avoid direct sunlight; can tolerate fluorescent lighting
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top inch of soil feels dry
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
• Humidity: Prefers high humidity; mist leaves regularly or use a humidity tray
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C); protect from cold drafts
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season
• Container: Use pot with drainage holes; repot every 1-2 years
• Toxicity: Keep away from pets and children as all parts are toxic if ingested

2. Pothos Is Low Maintenance

Pothos is one of the easiest houseplants to maintain, making it perfect for beginners and busy plant owners. This vining plant, scientifically known as Epipremnum aureum, tolerates various indoor conditions and continues to thrive even with occasional neglect. Its heart-shaped leaves come in several varieties, including golden, marble queen, and neon, and the plant can either trail from hanging baskets or climb up supports with minimal care requirements.

• Light: Tolerates low to bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight
• Water: Allow top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; water less in winter
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix
• Humidity: Adapts to average indoor humidity levels
• Temperature: 60-80°F (15-27°C)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season
• Container: Any pot with drainage holes
• Propagation: Easy to propagate through stem cuttings in water or soil

3. Succulent Needs Little Water

The Snake Plant (Sansevieria) is an excellent low-maintenance succulent choice for zone 6A indoor spaces, requiring minimal watering and care to thrive. Its stiff, upright leaves come in varieties with different patterns and colors, ranging from deep green to variegated yellow-green stripes. This hardy plant can survive weeks without water and actually prefers to dry out between waterings, making it perfect for busy households or those prone to overwatering.

• Light: Tolerates low to bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight
• Water: Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; water every 2-6 weeks depending on season
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix specifically for succulents and cacti
• Temperature: Thrives in normal room temperatures between 60-85°F
• Humidity: Adapts to any humidity level
• Container: Pot with drainage holes
• Fertilizer: Light feeding with balanced fertilizer 2-3 times per year during growing season

4. Snake Plant Grows Tall

Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) can reach impressive heights indoors, with some varieties growing up to 4-8 feet tall when properly cared for. These upright, architectural plants feature stiff, sword-like leaves that grow vertically from a basal rosette, making them excellent specimens for corners or as dramatic accent pieces. The tall, structural nature of snake plants adds visual interest and creates strong vertical lines in interior spaces while maintaining their reputation as one of the most low-maintenance houseplants.

• Light: Tolerates low to bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight
• Water: Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; water less in winter
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix; preferably succulent or cactus mix
• Temperature: 60-85°F (15-29°C)
• Humidity: Adaptable to various humidity levels; prefers average home humidity
• Container: Deep pot with drainage holes to accommodate tall growth
• Fertilizer: Light feeding with balanced fertilizer during growing season
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate growth rate

5. ZZ Plant Tolerates Shade

The ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) thrives as a low-maintenance indoor plant in Zone 6A, particularly in shaded conditions where other plants might struggle. Its thick, glossy leaves and upright growth pattern make it an attractive choice for darker corners of homes and offices, while its ability to tolerate low light levels stems from its natural habitat on the forest floor in Eastern Africa. This hardy plant can survive in deep shade, though it grows more slowly in such conditions compared to brighter indirect light.

• Light: Tolerates low light to bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight
• Water: Allow soil to dry between waterings; water sparingly every 2-3 weeks
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand
• Humidity: Adaptable to average indoor humidity levels
• Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
• Fertilizer: Light feeding with balanced fertilizer every 3-4 months during growing season
• Pot: Container with drainage holes to prevent root rot
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate, especially in low light conditions

6. Philodendron Grows Heart-Shaped Leaves

Philodendron plants are popular houseplants known for their distinctive heart-shaped leaves that add a tropical feel to indoor spaces. These versatile plants come in both climbing and non-climbing varieties, with glossy foliage ranging from deep green to variegated patterns. As the plant matures, new leaves unfurl from protective sheaths, maintaining their heart shape while increasing in size.

• Light: Bright, indirect light; can tolerate low light but may grow slower; avoid direct sunlight
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
• Humidity: Moderate to high humidity; mist leaves regularly or use a humidity tray
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced houseplant fertilizer
• Potting: Use containers with drainage holes; repot every 2-3 years or when rootbound

7. Spider Plant Produces Babies

Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are known for their prolific reproduction through plantlets, also called “spiderettes” or “babies,” which dangle from long stems extending from the mother plant. These offspring develop naturally when the plant reaches maturity and can be easily propagated by pinning them to soil while still attached to the parent plant or by cutting them off and rooting them separately in water or soil.

• Light: Bright to moderate indirect light; avoid direct sunlight
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; allow top inch to dry between waterings
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix with good aeration
• Humidity: Tolerates average indoor humidity levels
• Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
• Fertilizer: Light feeding with balanced fertilizer during growing season
• Container: Pot with drainage holes; can be slightly root-bound
• pH: 6.0-7.2

8. Chinese Evergreen Likes Humidity

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) thrives in humid environments that mimic its native tropical habitat. This popular houseplant’s love for moisture makes it an excellent choice for bathrooms, kitchens, or any space where humidity levels are naturally higher. Regular misting or the use of a humidity tray can help maintain the moisture levels these plants need to keep their leaves healthy and prevent brown tips.

• Light: Tolerates low to moderate indirect light; avoid direct sunlight
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top inch of soil feels dry
• Humidity: 60% or higher; benefits from regular misting or humidifier
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly with balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
• Container: Pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot

9. Norfolk Island Pine Grows Tall

The Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla) is a stately indoor tree that can reach impressive heights of 6-8 feet when grown as a houseplant, though it grows much taller in its natural habitat. Despite its name, it’s not actually a pine but rather a tropical plant native to Norfolk Island. Its symmetrical branches form perfect triangular tiers covered in soft, bright green needles, making it an attractive year-round indoor specimen that’s often used as a living Christmas tree.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct morning sun but protect from harsh afternoon rays
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top inch of soil feels dry
• Humidity: Requires high humidity levels (50% or higher); mist regularly or use a humidity tray
• Temperature: 60-70°F (15-21°C); protect from cold drafts
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
• Fertilizer: Feed with balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during growing season
• Container: Use pot with adequate drainage holes; repot every 2-3 years
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate growth rate indoors

10. Aloe Treats Minor Burns

Aloe vera is a succulent plant that produces a clear gel within its thick, spiky leaves which can effectively treat minor burns, cuts, and skin irritations. The healing properties of aloe have been used for thousands of years, and modern research supports its effectiveness in soothing burns and promoting skin healing. When needed, simply break off a leaf, split it lengthwise, and apply the cool gel directly to the affected area for natural first aid relief.

• Light: Bright indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct morning sun
• Water: Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply but infrequently
• Soil: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Humidity: Tolerates low humidity
• Container: Pot with drainage holes
• Fertilizer: Light feeding with balanced fertilizer during growing season
• Special Notes: Protect from cold drafts; reduce watering in winter

11. Rubber Tree Grows Glossy

The Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica) is a striking indoor plant known for its thick, glossy leaves that can grow up to 12 inches long. These dark green, oval-shaped leaves have a leather-like appearance and prominent veining, making them an attractive focal point in any indoor space. When grown indoors, rubber trees can reach heights of 6-10 feet, developing a strong trunk and branches that showcase their magnificent foliage.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon light
• Water: Allow top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
• Humidity: Moderate to high; mist leaves regularly or use a humidity tray
• Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
• Pot requirements: Container with good drainage holes
• Soil pH: 6.0-7.0

12. Fiddle Leaf Fig Purifies Air

The Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) is a powerful air-purifying plant that effectively removes common indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene through its large, violin-shaped leaves. While serving as a striking focal point in Zone 6A indoor spaces, this tropical plant continuously filters and improves air quality, making it both decorative and functional for maintaining a healthier indoor environment.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun; east-facing windows are ideal
• Water: Allow top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, rich potting mix with good aeration
• Humidity: Prefers 40-60% humidity; mist leaves or use a humidity tray
• Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
• Container: Use a pot with drainage holes; repot every 2-3 years
• Additional Care: Rotate plant quarterly for even growth; dust leaves monthly

13. Dracaena Grows Striped Leaves

Dracaena plants are popular indoor specimens known for their striking striped foliage, which comes in various combinations of green, yellow, and white. These tropical plants feature long, sword-shaped leaves that grow in rosettes from a central stem, creating an attractive architectural form. The stripes on dracaena leaves run lengthwise and can vary in width and intensity depending on the specific variety, with some common varieties including Dracaena marginata, Dracaena fragrans, and Dracaena deremensis.

• Light: Bright, indirect light; can tolerate medium light but may lose variegation in low light conditions
• Water: Allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings; sensitive to fluoride in tap water
• Soil: Well-draining, loose potting mix rich in organic matter
• Humidity: Moderate to high; benefits from regular misting
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Fertilizer: Light feeding every 2-3 months during growing season
• Container: Pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot
• pH: 6.0-7.0

14. Cast Iron Plant Endures Neglect

The Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) lives up to its name through remarkable durability and tolerance for neglect, making it an excellent choice for Zone 6A indoor spaces. This slow-growing, evergreen perennial produces dark green, lance-shaped leaves that can reach up to 2 feet in length, creating an attractive ground-level display. Its legendary toughness and ability to survive in low-light conditions with minimal care has made it a favorite among both novice gardeners and those seeking low-maintenance houseplants.

• Light: Thrives in low to moderate indirect light; can tolerate deep shade; avoid direct sunlight
• Water: Allow soil to dry between waterings; tolerates irregular watering; water less in winter
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix; tolerates various soil types
• Humidity: Adapts to average indoor humidity levels
• Temperature: Prefers 60-75°F; can survive temperature drops to 30°F
• Fertilizer: Light feeding with balanced fertilizer 2-3 times per year
• Soil pH: 5.5-6.5
• Pot Requirements: Well-draining container with drainage holes

15. Boston Fern Filters Humidity

Boston Ferns are excellent natural air purifiers and humidity regulators for indoor spaces in Zone 6A. These lush, feathery plants actively filter moisture from the air through their fronds while simultaneously releasing clean humidity back into the environment. Their superior ability to process and regulate indoor humidity makes them particularly valuable during dry winter months when heating systems can create uncomfortably dry conditions.

• Light: Bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; mist fronds regularly
• Humidity: 50-80% relative humidity; use humidity trays or room humidifiers
• Soil: Rich, well-draining potting mix with high organic matter content
• Temperature: 60-75°F (16-24°C)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
• Container: Use pots with adequate drainage holes
• Spacing: Allow room for spread as fronds can reach 2-3 feet wide