By Darcy Logan
Not everybody has a green thumb. But having a brown or even black thumb doesn't mean you have to give up on having plants. It simply means you have to find the right plants. The following is a list of six plants that are capable of surviving the worst of conditions - including those created by forgetful gardeners. Aspidistra
The aspidistra is also known as the "cast iron" plant because of its ability to survive in less than ideal conditions. It has shiny, dark green leaves that grow to 24 inches long and will occasionally produces brownish-purple flowers near its base.
This plant will tolerate pretty much any condition from dust, heat, cold, over-watering, under-watering and lack of light. It is also highly resistant to pests. Its soil should be kept evenly moist, but not constantly wet. Make sure to fertilize it every couple of months if it is kept in dimly lit areas.
Bromeliads
Bromeliads are also known as air plants or air pines and come in over 2,000 varieties. The pineapple is one example of a bromeliad. Bromeliads have thick, fleshy leaves that usually tightly-overlap to form tubular vases.
In the home, plant diseases are rarely a problem for this plant and their leaves are too tough to be bothered by insects. Its foliage will be more vibrant in brighter lights, but they can survive without any direct light and even in artificial light. Keep the center of the plant filled with water and the potting mix just barely moist. The plant should be kept dryer in the winter and have been known to survive for weeks without water.
Chlorophytum
The chlorophytum, or spider plant, typically has grassy green leaves, although some varieties have leaves striped with white or yellow. This plant is very adaptable and can tolerate all forms of neglect. They get their name from the runners that are formed from shoots that hang down the side of the pot.
Chlorophytum grow best in bright light, but will tolerate lower light. While it prefers moisture, it will survive if you let its soil dry out between waterings. Brown leaves can be caused by high concentrations of chlorine or fluoride in tap water and by under fertilizing. Remove the brown tips by trimming them with a scissors and try watering it with rain or distilled water.
Dracaena
This is a tall, durable plant with long, leathery, spear-like leaves that point downwards. Foliage comes in a variety of colors such as spotted with yellow or cream, striped white, edged with burgundy, and plain green. It can easily survive indoors even when the conditions are far from ideal.
Dracaenas need plenty of light, filtered through a curtain if indoors. Some varieties do well in fluorescent light while others prefer a sunny window. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy. If soil is allowed to get severely dry, the leaves will yellow or turn brown and die. These plants also prefer humid conditions. You might consider placing the planter on a tray of pebbles that you keep moist to increase the humidity around the plant. They are also resistant to most diseases and are poisonous to pets.
Sansevieria
Commonly known as Snake Plant or Mother-In-Law's Tongue, this is one of the hardiest houseplants around. The sansevieria has long, spiky, variegated foliage. Mature plants will produce sprays of fragrant pink-white or yellowish flowers, but the flowering is erratic and unpredictable.
Although the sansevieria prefers bright sunlight, it will tolerate a wide range of light levels including darker areas. During the spring, summer and fall, you should only water this plant once every ten days. In the winter, you should only water it once every 1-2 months. Over-watering is virtually the only way this plant can be killed. This plant is poisonous to pets and children.
Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
The zamioculcas zamiifolia is also known as the Aroid Palm or the ZZ Plant. It has thick, fleshy, glossy leaves. It is very tough under indoor conditions and will handle neglect well. It is also very resistant to disease and insects.
The plant does well in lower light levels, but prefers brighter light as long as it is kept out of direct, afternoon sun. Zamioculcas zamiifolia should remain on the dry side and it soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings. If its leaves begin to yellow, it is probably being watered too much.
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