Three plants that thrive for decades – one lives for 100 years

Keeping a houseplant alive is no mean feat.

Whether you drown it in water or forget to give it any at all, keep it in direct sunlight or struggle to find any natural light, countless issues can arise when caring for a leafy friend.

But now, one expert has shared three types of plant that can survive for decades. This even includes one ‘nearly indestructable’ species – a perfect choice for anyone who struggles to be a good plant parent.

Posting to YouTube, @everythingaboutplants said: “Three houseplants that thrive for decades. First we have [the] jade plant known for its longevity. Jade plants can live up to 100 years with proper care.

“Next we have [the] rubber plant able to live up to 50 years indoors, providing beautiful glossy foliage.”

Both jade and rubber plants require bright, indirect sunlight for healthy growth. According to Patch Plants, the rubber species should also be watered only when the soil is ‘almost completely dry’, which you can test with your finger.

Its experts said: “Keep their soil slightly moist, make sure they get plenty of sunshine, and if you’re at a comfortable temperature, they’ll be comfortable too.

“Just be sure to keep rubber plants out of reach from small hands and little paws, as latex can be poisonous when ingested and can cause some skin irritation.”

Meanwhile, plant specialists at Gardening Know How suggest that it’s wrong to water a jade plant ‘on a schedule’. Much like a cactus, jade plants are succulents which have thick water-storing flesh.

As a result, overwatering them can lead to root rot or even death of the plant. “Don’t water your jade plant on a schedule,” its experts suggested. “Instead, allow the top inch (2.5 cm) or so of the soil to dry out before watering again. Do not allow a jade plant to sit in a saucer of water.”

Finally, the last ‘nearly indestructable’ houseplant was unveiled by the YouTuber. They said: “Last but not least, we have [the] snake plant often touted as ‘nearly indestructable’. Snake plants can live for 25 years or more.”

While snake plants are also succulents, they require different care to a jade plant. Experts at The Spruce recommend watering these once every fortnight while keeping them in eight to 10 hours of indirect sunlight per day.

They added: “Snake plant is a good choice for beginners because it tolerates a range of growing conditions. This low-maintenance container plant adds decorative interest when planted indoors.”