12 Beautiful Plants That Grow and Bloom in Water (No Soil Needed!)

Indoor plants don’t always need a pot of soil to thrive. In fact, many stunning species are perfectly happy growing and even blooming in nothing more than water. Whether you’re limited on space, looking to reduce mess, or simply interested in creating a minimal, elegant display of greenery, hydro-cultured plants offer a stylish and surprisingly easy solution. From windowsills to kitchen counters, clear vases filled with leafy stems and vibrant flowers add an instant touch of life to any room.

One of the most exciting things about growing plants in water is how simple it can be. You don’t need to be an expert gardener, invest in expensive tools, or keep up with messy soil changes. All it takes is clean water, some natural light, and a touch of patience. Some of the most beloved plants, including flowering species, can live and thrive with their roots submerged in water.

Hydroponic plants are also a great entry point for beginners who want to try their hand at greenery without the intimidation of soil maintenance. Whether you’re growing herbs in your kitchen window or looking to build an indoor jungle that’s pet-friendly and low-effort, this guide has something for you. Even better, several of the plants on this list not only grow in water but actually bloom, adding extra beauty to your home.

In this article, we’ll explore 12 of the most beautiful plants that grow and bloom in water. You’ll learn how to care for each one, what kind of light they need, and which varieties will reward your efforts with colorful blossoms—even without a single scoop of soil.

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1. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

The Peace Lily is one of the most graceful indoor plants you can grow, and yes—it can thrive in just water. Known for its large, glossy green leaves and elegant white spathes that resemble flowers, the Peace Lily is as functional as it is beautiful. It also acts as a natural air purifier, making it a popular pick for bedrooms and living rooms.

To grow it in water, simply take a healthy plant and carefully rinse off the soil from its roots. Place it in a vase with the base submerged and keep the water fresh by changing it weekly. Bright, indirect light will encourage the plant to bloom throughout the year.

2. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)

Although it isn’t technically a true bamboo, Lucky Bamboo has earned its name thanks to its resilient nature and sleek, sculptural appearance. Often used in feng shui practices, this plant is known for bringing good fortune and positive energy to any space. When grown in water, Lucky Bamboo thrives with minimal care.

The roots should always be submerged in clean, chlorine-free water, and the stems can be held in place with small decorative stones. Place it in a spot with filtered sunlight and you may see small white blooms, especially if the plant is mature and well cared for.

3. Anthurium (Flamingo Flower)

Anthuriums are among the few flowering houseplants that are both bold and exotic. With their heart-shaped leaves and waxy red or pink spathes (often mistaken for flowers), they make a statement wherever they’re placed. While typically grown in soil, anthuriums can adapt to water culture surprisingly well.

To encourage blooms, provide bright, indirect light and keep the roots in oxygen-rich water. You can use hydroponic clay pebbles to help hold the plant in place if you’re transitioning from soil. With the right care, these tropical beauties will reward you with continuous color.

4. Impatiens

If you’re craving a burst of vibrant color indoors, impatiens are a fantastic choice. These cheerful annuals are often used in shaded outdoor gardens, but they can be propagated and grown in water just as easily. In fact, they’ll even bloom in a vase.

To get started, cut a healthy stem below a leaf node and place it in a jar of clean water. Within a week or two, roots will begin to form. Provide bright but indirect light, and you’ll have flowers blooming in your indoor water garden in no time.

5. Coleus

Coleus plants are known for their colorful and often intricate leaf patterns, ranging from deep burgundy to bright lime green. Though they’re not typically grown for their flowers, coleus can produce delicate blue blooms when kept happy and healthy.

Coleus stems root very quickly in water and can survive long term without soil. Simply snip a healthy branch, remove the bottom leaves, and place the stem in a water-filled jar. As long as the water is refreshed regularly and it gets some indirect sunlight, coleus will flourish—and possibly even flower.

6. Begonia

Certain types of begonias, especially wax begonias and angel wing varieties, can live and bloom in water for extended periods. These charming plants are loved for their soft, ruffled leaves and delicate blooms that come in shades of red, pink, and white.

Begonias need a bit more attention than others when grown hydroponically. Make sure the water stays clean and oxygenated, and don’t allow the stem to sit too deeply in the water. Bright, indirect light will help encourage flowering even without soil.

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7. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

This popular houseplant is often chosen for its variegated leaves and tolerance for low light. What many people don’t realize is that Chinese Evergreens can be rooted and grown in water just as easily as in soil. Mature plants may even bloom, producing small white flowers resembling peace lilies.

Use a tall glass vase to support the stems, and be sure to rinse the roots clean before placing them in water. While flowering is more common in soil, water-grown aglaonema plants can still surprise you with a bloom under the right conditions.

8. Wandering Jew (Tradescantia zebrina)

With its shimmering purple and silver foliage, Wandering Jew is one of the most eye-catching trailing plants you can grow in water. These fast growers can produce tiny, three-petaled flowers that are usually purple, pink, or white.

Propagate by cutting a few stems and submerging them in water. You’ll see root growth within days, and soon enough the plant will begin trailing over the sides of its container. Place it on a sunny windowsill and you might be rewarded with an explosion of color.

9. Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)

For a truly dramatic water plant that blooms, look no further than the lotus. While it’s best suited to large water containers or indoor ponds, growing lotus in water is an ancient practice that has stood the test of time. These plants bloom with massive, fragrant flowers in pinks and whites.

Start with lotus tubers in a wide bowl or container filled with warm water. Provide direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. Lotus flowers are seasonal bloomers but make a breathtaking addition when in full display.

10. Water Hyacinth

Often used in water features and backyard ponds, water hyacinths are floating plants that produce delicate lavender-blue flowers. They’re low-maintenance and fast-spreading—just make sure you have enough room for them to multiply.

They float freely on the water’s surface and don’t require anchoring. With enough sunlight and warmth, water hyacinths can bloom throughout the growing season.

11. Orchids (Certain Varieties)

While traditionally grown in bark or moss, some orchid species—like the phalaenopsis—can adapt to water culture. This technique, often called “semi-water culture,” involves keeping the roots hydrated for part of the week and then allowing them to dry out.

The trick is consistency and clean water. Orchids in semi-hydroponic setups can produce the same beautiful blooms you’d expect in soil—just with a little added finesse.

12. African Violet (Hydroponic Method)

African violets are known for their velvety leaves and bright flowers. While they’re more commonly grown in soil, dedicated houseplant lovers have found success growing them hydroponically using wick or net pot systems. While this is more advanced, it’s still technically soil-free.

Bright, indirect light and warm water are key. If you’re feeling adventurous, this flowering beauty can be a crown jewel in your indoor water garden.

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🌿 Bonus: Edible Herbs That Grow in Water (and Sometimes Bloom!)

While the primary focus of this article has been ornamental plants that bloom in water, you can also enjoy the beauty—and utility—of fresh kitchen herbs grown hydroponically. Several herbs grow happily in a jar or glass of water and will keep producing flavorful leaves for months. Plus, many of these will flower if left to grow long enough!

Here are some popular edible herbs that thrive in water:

1. Mint

Mint is one of the easiest herbs to grow in water. Simply snip a healthy stem just below a node, remove the lower leaves, and place it in a glass of water on a sunny windowsill. It roots quickly and can even produce small purple or white flowers if allowed to mature.

2. Parsley

Parsley takes a little longer to root, but once it does, it grows steadily. You can start it from a stem cutting or even regrow it from leftover supermarket sprigs. It doesn’t often bloom indoors, but it’s still a vibrant addition to your windowsill.

3. Rosemary

Rosemary is a semi-woody herb, so it may take longer to root in water, but it’s totally possible. Use younger stems for faster rooting. In bright, sunny locations, rosemary may produce small, pale blue flowers.

4. Oregano

Oregano grows easily in water and quickly develops a lush, trailing habit. Under good conditions, it may bloom with tiny white or pink flowers, which are also edible and attractive to pollinators if moved outdoors.

5. Green Onions (Scallions)

One of the most beginner-friendly water-growing plants, green onions regrow from their roots in a glass of water in just days. While not typically grown for flowers, if left long enough, they will produce small round blooms at the top.

6. Thyme

Thyme can grow in water for several weeks or more before needing to be replanted in soil. Its tiny purple or pink flowers appear when the plant is stressed or aging, adding a delicate touch to your kitchen garden.

Pro Tip:

To keep your herbs healthy:

• Change the water every few days.
• Use a transparent jar to watch the roots grow.
• Snip leaves frequently to encourage new growth.
• Add liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks for longer-lasting vitality.