When I first started gardening in Kenya, I quickly learned that choosing the right low-maintenance plants in Kenya makes all the difference. Not all plants are created equal. Some thrive with little care, surviving even when you skip watering for a week or two, while others demand constant attention like needy pets.
Over the years, I’ve discovered that low-maintenance plants in Kenya are the secret to a beautiful garden without spending every spare moment on upkeep. They’re perfect for busy people, new gardeners or homeowners who simply want greenery without the hassle.
In this guide, I’ll share 15 low-maintenance plants in Kenya that I’ve personally grown and loved plants that are resilient, adaptable and gorgeous. I’ll also include my own experiences and tips from professional gardeners I’ve connected with through Thoonjo Errands, Kenya’s trusted errands marketplace.
1. Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea is one of Kenya’s most iconic flowering plants. Its paper-like flowers come in shades of pink, purple, white and orange, adding a tropical feel to fences, walls and pergolas.
Why I love it: It thrives in full sun, resists drought, and grows quickly once established.
Care tips: Water only during the early growth phase. Once mature, it can survive with minimal watering. Prune lightly to maintain shape.
Best for: Outdoor walls, fences and large garden spaces.
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a plant you’ll appreciate for both its looks and usefulness. The gel from its leaves soothes burns, moisturizes skin and can even be used in homemade hair treatments.
Why I love it: It’s almost impossible to kill and loves the sun.
Care tips: Water sparingly and allow the soil to dry between watering sessions. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Best for: Pots on sunny patios or as part of a rock garden.
3. Crotons
Crotons are the plant version of fireworks bright yellows, deep reds and vibrant greens in every leaf. They make excellent garden borders or potted decor for verandas.
Why I love it: They provide color year-round without flowers.
Care tips: Place in partial sun for the best leaf color. Water moderately.
Best for: Garden borders and decorative pots.
4. Hibiscus
Hibiscus plants have showy flowers that instantly brighten any garden. I’ve grown them along my walkway, and the constant blooms make every day feel like summer.
Why I love it: Attracts butterflies and can be used for hibiscus tea.
Care tips: Water regularly during dry seasons. Prune after blooming to maintain shape.
Best for: Flower beds, hedges, and walkway borders.
5. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
This indoor champion thrives in low light and ignores neglect. My ZZ plant has lived through power cuts, moving houses, and even a few weeks without water.
Why I love it: Low-light tolerance and sleek, modern look.
Care tips: Water sparingly once or twice a month.
Best for: Offices, living rooms and shaded verandas.
6. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Also called “mother-in-law’s tongue,” snake plants are practically indestructible. They store water in their thick leaves and grow well in both sunlight and low light.
Why I love it: Great air purifier for indoors.
Care tips: Let soil dry out between watering.
Best for: Bedrooms, offices and indoor corners.
7. Jasmine
Jasmine vines fill the air with a sweet fragrance, especially in the evenings. I’ve trained mine to grow along my fence and now my garden smells like a perfume shop every night.
Why I love it: Minimal care for maximum fragrance.
Care tips: Occasional pruning and weekly watering in dry seasons.
Best for: Fences, trellises and balconies.
8. Agave
Agave plants look like living sculptures with their thick, pointed leaves. They’re perfect for minimalistic or desert-style gardens.
Why I love it: Needs almost no care once planted.
Care tips: Plant in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Best for: Rock gardens and open sunny areas.
9. Anthurium
This non-native beauty adds tropical charm indoors with their glossy leaves and bright red or pink flowers.
Why I love it: Adds a tropical feel indoors.
Care tips: Keep in bright, indirect light and water weekly.
Best for: Indoor decor and shaded patios.
10. Lavender
Lavender doesn’t just smell divine it keeps mosquitoes away. I planted mine near the seating area and evenings outdoors are now much more pleasant.
Why I love it: Aromatic and pest-repelling.
Care tips: Needs well-drained soil and full sun. Water sparingly.
Best for: Borders, herb gardens, and sunny patios.
11. Peace Lily
Peace lilies are graceful indoor plants with white blooms and lush green leaves. They even let you know when they need water by drooping slightly.
Why I love it: Low-light tolerant and easy to revive.
Care tips: Keep soil moist but not soggy.
Best for: Indoor spaces with low natural light.
12. Rosemary
Rosemary is one of my favorite herbs because it’s both beautiful and useful. I use it in roasts, bread and even herbal teas.
Why I love it: Hardy, fragrant and edible.
Care tips: Loves sun and well-drained soil. Minimal watering needed.
Best for: Herb gardens and sunny balconies.
13. Spider Plant
Spider plants produce long, arching leaves and small plantlets that you can easily propagate.
Why I love it: Quick-growing and forgiving.
Care tips: Keep in indirect light and water moderately.
Best for: Hanging baskets and indoor pots.
14. Ferns
Ferns thrive in shady, moist spots, making them perfect for areas other plants may avoid.
Why I love it: Brings lush greenery to low-light corners.
Care tips: Water regularly to keep soil moist.
Best for: Shaded gardens and indoor bathrooms.
15. Succulents
Succulents come in countless shapes and sizes, from rosette-forming echeveria to chunky jade plants.
Why I love it: Almost zero maintenance.
Care tips: Plant in well-draining soil and water sparingly.
Best for: Small pots, desk plants and balcony gardens.
Designing with Low-Maintenance Plants
When arranging these plants, I like to group them based on water needs. For example, succulents, agave and bougainvillea work well together in dry, sunny spots, while peace lilies, ferns and spider plants thrive in shady, moist areas. This makes maintenance easier and prevents overwatering.
How Thoonjo Errands Can Help
Sometimes, even low-maintenance gardens need a little professional touch soil preparation, pest control, or pruning. Through Thoonjo Errands, you can:
Book a gardener to plant and arrange your chosen low-maintenance plants
Get help with garden cleanup and landscaping
Arrange for regular but minimal maintenance visits
This means you can enjoy the beauty of a garden without lifting a finger perfect for busy homeowners.
Final Thoughts
A lush garden doesn’t have to drain your time and energy. By choosing the right plants, you can create a vibrant, healthy, and low-maintenance outdoor (or indoor) space. Whether you want color, fragrance or greenery, these 15 plants are tried-and-tested winners for Kenyan homes.
FAQs – Low-Maintenance Plants in Kenya
Snake plants, ZZ plants, rosemary, and bougainvillea are great starter options.
Yes, but choose drought-tolerant varieties like agave, succulents and bougainvillea.
They do, but far less than other plants. Occasional watering, pruning and pest checks are enough.
Absolutely just use the right pot size and well-draining soil.
Snake plants, peace lilies, ZZ plants and spider plants thrive indoors.
You can book vetted gardeners on Thoonjo Errands to help you start and maintain your garden.
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