There’s something magical about water plants. Unlike traditional potted plants, they grow gracefully in bowls, jars, or aquariums, making them versatile décor pieces for homes and offices. Whether you’re a busy professional or someone just starting with gardening, water plants bring elegance without demanding too much care.
From the resilient Lucky Bamboo to the vibrant Philodendron, and the floating charm of the water hyacinth, each plant adds a unique beauty. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top 10 water plants that can turn your living space into a refreshing green haven.
1. Lucky Bamboo 🌱

One of the most popular indoor plants, Lucky Bamboo grows beautifully in water-filled glass vases with pebbles. It’s believed to bring prosperity and good energy according to Feng Shui.
- Care tip: Maintain stable water levels and use filtered water.
- Why it’s great: Elegant, symbolic, and easy to grow indoors.
2. Philodendron
If you want a plant with long, trailing vines, Philodendron is an excellent choice. Simply place its cuttings in water, and it will grow roots quickly.
- Care tip: Place your Philodendron in bright, indirect light.
- Why it’s great: Adds lush greenery and thrives even in low maintenance conditions.
Also Read: 5 Stunning Succulents That Can Survive Snow & Frost
3. Water Hyacinth
With lavender-blue flowers and thick green leaves, the water hyacinth is perfect for outdoor ponds or large water containers.
- Care tip: It loves full sunlight and clean water.
- Why it’s great: Stunning blooms and natural water purifier.
4. Money Plant (Pothos)
The money plant grows well in both soil and water, making it one of the easiest houseplants. Keep a few stems in a glass jar filled with water and pebbles, and watch it flourish.
- Care tip: Change the water every 7–10 days.
- Why it’s great: Symbol of luck, prosperity, and effortless growth.
5. Water Lettuce
Floating rosettes of velvety green leaves make water lettuce a natural beauty for aquariums or outdoor ponds.
- Care tip: Requires warm temperatures and indirect sunlight.
- Why it’s great: Provides oxygen in water and controls algae.
6. Arrowhead Plant
This hardy plant adapts quickly to water settings. Place cuttings of arrowhead plant in jars and watch them root easily.
- Care tip: Keep in bright, indirect light and trim regularly.
- Why it’s great: Decorative foliage with low maintenance needs.
Also Read: How to Grow Lavender for Endless Fragrance and Stunning Blooms
7. Umbrella Palm
Umbrella palms thrive in shallow water and add an exotic touch with their tall stems and umbrella-like leaves.
- Care tip: Perfect for indoor ponds or water gardens.
- Why it’s great: Bold, tropical look for modern homes.
8. Lotus
No list of water plants is complete without the Lotus. Known for its cultural and spiritual symbolism, the lotus thrives in sunny conditions with its striking flowers.
- Care tip: Needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Why it’s great: Beautiful blooms and a serene presence.
9. Water Lilies
Like lotus, water lilies float gracefully on the surface of ponds or containers. Their colorful flowers make them a centerpiece in water gardens.
- Care tip: Grow in containers placed inside shallow water.
- Why it’s great: Adds elegance and attracts pollinators.
10. Papyrus Plant
Ancient Egyptians used papyrus to make paper, but today it’s loved for its ornamental value. It grows well in shallow water-filled pots.
- Care tip: Keep roots submerged in water and place in full sun.
- Why it’s great: Unique history and bold presence in gardens.
Quick Comparison Table
Plant |
Best For |
Care Level |
Lucky Bamboo |
Indoor décor, Feng Shui |
Very Easy |
Philodendron |
Trailing greenery |
Easy |
Water Hyacinth |
Outdoor ponds |
Medium |
Money Plant |
Indoors, prosperity symbol |
Very Easy |
Water Lettuce |
Aquariums, ponds |
Medium |
Arrowhead Plant |
Decorative jars |
Easy |
Umbrella Palm |
Water gardens |
Medium |
Lotus |
Outdoor ponds |
High |
Water Lilies |
Ponds, containers |
Medium |
Papyrus Plant |
Bold garden décor |
Medium |
Also Read: The Most Beautiful Heart-Shaped Leaf Plants for Home & Garden
Personal Tip 🌿
I once started with Lucky Bamboo as my first water plant. The ease of just placing it in a jar of water amazed me. Over time, I added Philodendron cuttings and a small money plant, and together they created a refreshing green corner in my living room. If you’re new to gardening, starting with one or two of these water plants will give you confidence to grow more.
👉 Start with simple options like money plant or Philodendron, and as you gain confidence, add flowering beauties like lotus or water lilies. Soon, your home will feel like a serene, green sanctuary.