When the weather gets blustery and the sun goes down early, houseplants can help keep the seasonal blues at bay.
Not a natural plant parent? Have no fear. Together with local plant shops and greenhouses, we’ve compiled a list of plants known to thrive no matter the weather or the botanophile’s skill level.
Natal mahogany
Recommended by: Put a Plant on It (715 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo)
Have a drafty home? The natal mahogany, originally from the KwaZulu-Natal region of South Africa, is cold-tolerant and will happily soak up low daylight in any corner of your abode. With gorgeous, glossy foliage resembling an avocado or mango tree, it’ll transport you to the tropics while purifying the surrounding air. It’s a non-toxic, pet-safe plant that isn’t bothered by a little overwatering.
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“We installed and care for the plants at Tipico Coffee, including a natal mahogany in a corner that gets zero natural light. It is the happiest plant in the world.” - Johanna C. Dominguez, owner
Fernwood mikado snake plant
Recommended by: The Plant Shack (618 Main St., East Aurora)
Looking to up the cool factor of your space? Consider a fernwood mikado snake plant. It also requires little natural light (though they thrive in bright sunlight, too) and does well in lower temperatures—no need to blast your heat. Stick it near a window (drafty or otherwise) and know that even if growth appears stunted, it’s perfectly healthy. These hardy plants will keep their composure throughout Buffalo’s long winter months.
“The fernwood mikado is more spikey and fun than regular snake plants, so it also adds a bit of spunk to your room!” - Rachel Stepien, owner
Bronze bay dracaena
Recommended by: Daddy’s Plants (1250 Niagara St., Buffalo)
The bronze bay dracaena’s lemon-lime leaf color will brighten up your space even on the grayest winter day. If you’re blessed with lots of natural light in your home, the Dracaena will continue to blossom and grow, but it also won’t falter during periods of low light. If you like a low-maintenance plant companion, this is a great choice—it only needs water every 10-12 days depending on its environment.
“Invest in larger, mature plants if you’re not confident in your green thumb. This may feel counterintuitive, but an older plant is more established and generally less fragile than a smaller, young plant.” - Pat Sandora, co-owner
Spider plant
Recommended by: Seneca Greenhouse (2250 Transit Road, West Seneca)
The spider plant is a beloved choice for green- and black-thumbed plant parents alike and thrives in a variety of light conditions. If you’re dreaming of that lush, cascading effect that makes a room feel warm and inviting, the Spider Plant is a go-to. It’s ideal for hanging baskets—adding depth to your living space—and looks great perched atop a tall plant stand. Spider plants are very forgiving when you miss a watering—in fact, it’s best to wait to replenish until the top 1 inch of soil is dry to the touch.
“Be careful not to overwater, because plants tend to need less water in the winter.” - Seneca Greenhouse staff
