Succulents and cacti are often heard as the easiest houseplant, as you can just water them every now and then, while keeping them in sunlight. Many people, and many students, want more lively plants that would make their rooms more comfortable, and not accessorized with thorny decor. Luckily, there are numerous options that do not require tons of effort while still being pleasant to look at.

The Guiana Chestnut, or Money Tree, is an excellent choice. The name "Money Tree" was bestowed on the plant when it was thought to bring good luck and wealth to its owners and surroundings - perfect for students. The stems grow and are twisted together to form a fancy spiral that holds up a head of long, deep green leaves. It thrives best indoors, with bright or medium indirect sunlight. It does not require frequent waterings, but the soil should be very damp and moist when the time comes. They are generally small. They can grow to be 6 feet tall, but usually stay around 3 feet tall indoors.

A simpler option could be a Snake Plant. Their leaves grow directly from the soil, and continue to gain height instead of sprouting a stem. They shoot straight up, and have a scaly pattern of greens and yellows that resembles a snake. Four feet is the tallest they stand, but that takes many years for them to grow. You will probably only witness their life when they are about 1 or 2 feet tall. Direct sunlight is their only weakness, as it can burn up and dry out the leaves. High, medium, or low light is all sufficient. Laziness is also accepted. Overwatering is a big issue with their owners. The soil should dry out completely before the next watering, so it is okay if you forget your Snake Plant is actually alive.

If you prefer more color, then a Bromeliad might excite you. They have long green leaves that extend around the plant, like a downwards crown. The centerpiece shoots up, almost resembling a pineapple. Its leaves sprawl out at a much shorter distance as well. Red is the most common color of a Bromeliad, but they can be pink or yellow in their blooming process. Direct sunlight is not their friend, but bright light should be available. They have adapted to become drought tolerant, so skipping their waterings will not greatly harm the plant’s health. Weekly splashes should still be scheduled. If the leaf tips start to brown, it’s probably only an issue with the watering schedule.

Flowers and colors are not always combined. A flowering plant that can garnish your home is the Jasmine Plant. They pair well with students because of their sweet smell, which calms stress and anxiety and promotes relaxation. Jasmine Plants flourish both indoors and outdoors, so that shows how forbearing they are. Their white flowers are small, but they grow in beautiful bundles that can be mistaken for fakes. It sprouts up thin and flaunts smooth, oval leaves. Bright sunlight benefits them best. To combat the direct sunlight, their soil should always be slightly damp, but not squishy from too much water.

Colorful flowers do brighten any environment, so if you’re looking for that combination, then the African Violet may be a better fit. Just as the name suggests, the flower is a gorgeous deep purple, and it also goes through stages of being white or sometimes even pink. Their bundles bloom beside soft, wide leaves. The plant flourishes from a unique compromise. African Violets do not need much sun, or much water either. Only two to six hours of indirect sunlight a day will keep the plant happy while preventing the leaves from burning. The soil should dry out between waterings, but shouldn’t be left dry for too long. Daily dampness checks can be an easy way to plan their drinks.

These five plants are only a small selection of the various options available, but they are some of the most beneficial plants for students. Their scents, care qualifications, and straightforward style would fit best in any dorm or study rooms you want to accessorize.