You’ve just moved into your perfect new place — maybe one of the cozy apartments in Iowa City, close to Melrose Ave, or your favorite bike trails. Now comes the fun part: making it feel like home.
Adding indoor plants is one of the easiest (and best-looking) ways to refresh your space, lift your mood, and even clean the air inside your apartment.
The great news? You don’t have to be a gardening pro. With the right plants, you can start small and grow your green thumb over time. Whether you’re looking for low-light plants, pet-friendly options, or big, bold statement pieces, here’s your go-to guide to the best indoor plants for apartment living.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
The snake plant is a superstar for beginners. If you’re juggling a busy schedule — between work, school, or exploring around Melrose Ave Iowa City — this plant thrives on a little neglect.
Snake plants need only occasional watering and minimal light, making them perfect for apartments with less sun. Plus, their tall, sculptural leaves instantly upgrade your décor while helping purify the air.
Start with a snake plant, and you might just find yourself wanting a whole apartment jungle!
2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace lilies are gorgeous, graceful, and perfect for low-light apartments.
Their dark green leaves and bright white blooms add elegance, even to the gloomiest corner of your Iowa City apartment.
They don’t need a ton of sun and will reward you with lush growth and cleaner air. Plus, they’re super low-maintenance, making them perfect for apartment living.
Bring a little peace and greenery into your home with this easygoing beauty.
3. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
If you’re ready to make a statement, a fiddle leaf fig is the way to go.
Known for its large, bold leaves, this plant brings major tropical vibes to any apartment.
Fiddle leaf figs thrive in bright, indirect light and can grow tall — making them an eye-catching centerpiece in apartments near downtown Iowa City or cozy spots along Melrose Ave.
Go big and let this beauty transform your living space into a true urban jungle.
4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The only spider you’ll want in your home!
Spider plants are beloved for their easygoing nature, attractive arching leaves, and adorable baby “spiderettes” that dangle from the main plant.
They handle low light like champs, purify the air, and they’re even safe for cats — a major bonus for pet lovers renting Iowa City apartments.
Hang one in a window or let it cascade off a shelf for a pop of green charm.
5. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos, also called Devil’s Ivy, is a classic for a reason.
It grows quickly, looks fantastic trailing from shelves or hanging baskets, and tolerates low light and irregular watering.
Its heart-shaped leaves are available in a variety of patterns and colors — perfect for matching your apartment’s vibe.
No green thumb? No problem. Pothos will make you look like a gardening expert with minimal effort.
6. Monstera (Monstera Deliciosa)
If you love a little drama (the good kind), Monstera is calling your name.
With its huge, iconic split leaves, Monstera plants add tropical flair and a bold statement to any space.
They love bright, indirect light but are flexible enough for typical apartment settings around Iowa City.
Want your space to feel like a chic urban oasis? A Monstera is a must-have.
7. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
The rubber plant is both striking and surprisingly easy to care for.
Its glossy, dark green leaves are instantly eye-catching, and it can grow tall over time, making it perfect for filling empty corners in stylish Iowa City rentals.
While it prefers bright, indirect light, it’s hardy enough to adapt to various light conditions.
If you’re looking to add a bold, structured plant to your apartment, the rubber plant is a sleek and modern choice.
8. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Looking for a plant that’s practically indestructible?
The ZZ plant is your new best friend.
It thrives in low light, needs very little watering, and still looks lush and vibrant.
Its waxy, deep green leaves add a stylish touch to any apartment setup — but heads up: it’s toxic to pets, so it’s not the best pick for cat owners.
Perfect for busy lifestyles and darker apartments in Iowa City, the ZZ plant proves that low-maintenance can still mean high style.
Why Every Apartment Needs Indoor Plants
House plants do way more than just look pretty.
They clean the air, boost your mood, and make your apartment feel vibrant, welcoming, and alive.
Even if your space gets limited sunlight or you’re still developing your green thumb, there’s a perfect plant out there waiting for you.
Adding plants to apartments in Iowa City — whether it’s a spacious unit downtown or a cozy rental near Melrose Ave Iowa City — brings an instant upgrade to your environment. Plus, taking care of plants gives you a great excuse to slow down, de-stress, and enjoy the little things.
So grab a snake plant, a pothos, or even a mighty Monstera — and watch your apartment bloom with new life!