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20 Fast-Growing Indoor Plants

20 Fast-Growing Indoor Plants

Whether you’re in a rush for a lush green space or just love to propagate quick-growing plants, we’ve got the best on the list! Relax, take your time, and spare a few minutes to go over our list of fast-growing houseplants!

Bamboo

Bamboo
Image by The Spruce
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthModerate ●●○○○
Scientific NameBambusoideae
Growth RateFast (can grow up to 3 feet or more per day)
Indoor/OutdoorBoth
USDA ZoneVaries (dependent on species)
Unique FeaturesTall, woody, perennial grass with jointed stems.
MaintenanceLow
Mature Plant SizeVaries (dependent on species)
Possible IssuesInvasive in some regions, containment advised.

Bamboo is a versatile and rapidly growing plant suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings. It’s known for its impressive growth rate, making it ideal for privacy screens, windbreaks, or decorative greenery. 

Containment measures, such as root barriers, may be necessary to prevent unwanted spread. While bamboo prefers full sun, it can tolerate partial shade and adapts well to various soil types, thriving in well-draining soil. 

Sunflower

Sunflower
Image by Apartment Therapy
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameHelianthus annuus
Growth RateFast (can grow up to 1 foot or more per week)
Indoor/OutdoorBoth (Grows better outdoors)
USDA Zone4-9
Unique FeaturesLarge, yellow flower heads.
MaintenanceLow
Mature Plant Size3-15 feet tall, depending on the variety
Possible IssuesSusceptible to mildew, aphids, and birds.

Sunflowers are loved for their iconic yellow blooms and can grow over a foot per week in optimal conditions. They’re pretty much low-maintenance, needing regular watering and occasional deadheading for continuous blooming.

Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods, but they can tolerate some drought. With sunny blooms that rotate with the sun’s movement, sunflowers are perfect for borders, backdrops, or standalone features. 

Sweet Potato Vine

Sweet Potato Vine
Image by Eco Organic Garden
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameIpomoea batatas
Growth RateFast (vines can spread several feet per week)
Indoor/OutdoorBoth
USDA Zone9-11
Unique FeaturesTrailing vines with heart-shaped leaves.
MaintenanceModerate
Mature Plant SizeVaries (dependent on growing conditions)
Possible IssuesProne to pests, occasional trimming needed.

Sweet Potato Vine is a popular, easy-to-grow plant known for its lush trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves. The vines can spread several feet per week, making it great for ground cover, hanging baskets, or cascading in mixed planters. 

Preferring full sun but tolerating partial shade, it needs well-draining soil and consistent moisture. Generally low-maintenance, occasional trimming controls growth and maintains shape, especially when grown indoors.

Marigold

Marigold
Image by Hunker
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameTagetes
Growth RateModerate to fast (germinates quickly)
Indoor/OutdoorBoth
USDA Zone2-11, depending on the variety
Unique FeaturesBright, colorful flowers, aromatic foliage.
MaintenanceLow
Mature Plant SizeVaries (dependent on the variety)
Possible IssuesSusceptible to spider mites and aphids.

Marigolds are one of the go-to plants in gardens, not just for looks but also for keeping pests at bay. They’re easy to grow and grow reasonably fast, sprouting quickly to bring color to gardens. 

Whether in flower beds, pots, or hanging out with veggies, marigolds are adaptable. You can plant them inside or outside, and they’ll thrive in different climates and soil types.

Nasturtium

Nasturtium
Image by Gardener’s Path
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameTropaeolum majus
Growth RateModerate to fast (spreading vines)
Indoor/OutdoorBoth
USDA Zone2-11
Unique FeaturesRound, distinctive leaves and vibrant flowers.
MaintenanceLow
Mature Plant Size8-12 inches tall (dwarf varieties) to 10 feet or more (climbing varieties)
Possible IssuesResistant to pests, occasional deadheading.

Nasturtiums, with their distinctive round leaves and vivid flowers, make them a hit – whether indoors or outdoors. Known for their medium to fast growth, these plants sport vines that can spread on the ground or climb high. 

Easy to handle, nasturtiums like well-drained soil and adapt to different light, from full sun to partial shade. A standout feature? Nasturtiums stand strong against many pests, making them a great garden choice. 

Zinnia

Zinnia
Image by Gardener’s Path
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameZinnia elegans
Growth RateFast (blooms within weeks of planting)
Indoor/OutdoorBoth (Grows better outdoors)
USDA Zone3-10
Unique FeaturesColorful, daisy-like flowers in various shapes.
MaintenanceLow to moderate
Mature Plant Size6 inches to 4 feet, depending on the variety
Possible IssuesSusceptible to mildew in humid conditions.

Zinnias are daisy-like flowers with a speedy growth rate, typically blooming within weeks and offering quick bursts of color. Zinnias can get a bit picky about soil and light, loving well-drained soil and basking in full sun. 

Maintenance is a breeze, with occasional deadheading for continuous blooming. The charm of zinnias lies in their diverse flower shapes and colors, perfect for flower beds, borders, or containers. 

Morning Glory

Morning Glory
Image by Indoor Home Garden
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameIpomoea tricolor
Growth RateFast (vines can grow several feet in a week)
Indoor/OutdoorBoth (Grows better outdoors)
USDA Zone3-10
Unique FeaturesTrumpet-shaped flowers in various colors.
MaintenanceLow
Mature Plant Size6-10 feet tall, depending on the variety
Possible IssuesCan be invasive, may require support for climbing.

Morning Glory is known for its trumpet-shaped flowers in a variety of colors and is loved for its easy growth, with vines shooting up several feet per week. Perfect for covering trellises or fences, Morning Glory shines outdoors, adapting well to different climates.

Morning Glory’s unique trumpet-shaped flowers open in the morning and close later on. While easy to care for, be mindful of its potential invasiveness, and provide support for climbing. 

Radish

Radish
Image by Urban Leaf
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameRaphanus sativus
Growth RateFast (mature in about 3-4 weeks)
Indoor/OutdoorBoth
USDA ZoneAnnual
Unique FeaturesEdible roots, various colors and shapes.
MaintenanceLow
Mature Plant Size6-24 inches, depending on the variety
Possible IssuesSusceptible to pests like flea beetles.

Radishes are celebrated for their edible roots and versatility in both indoor and outdoor settings. Just keep the soil consistently moist with regular watering, and maintenance is a breeze for a fruitful harvest.

The unique feature? Their edible roots, available in various colors and shapes. Sizes vary, with different varieties ranging from 6 to 24 inches. 

Cosmos

Cosmos
Image by Epic Gardening
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameCosmos bipinnatus
Growth RateFast (blooms within 7-10 weeks from seeding)
Indoor/OutdoorBoth
USDA ZoneAnnual
Unique FeaturesFern-like foliage, daisy-like flowers.
MaintenanceLow
Mature Plant Size1-6 feet tall, depending on the variety
Possible IssuesFew pest problems, occasional deadheading.

Cosmosis is often grown for its fern-like leaves and daisy-like blooms. Its easy-going nature makes Cosmos a top pick for gardeners, showing off its colorful blooms within a speedy period from seeding. 

Just keep the soil consistently moist with regular watering, and maintenance is a breeze. A bit of deadheading now and then encourages a continuous display of blooms and extends the flowering fiesta.

Chia

Chia
Image by MorningChores
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameSalvia hispanica
Growth RateModerate
Indoor/OutdoorBoth
USDA ZoneAnnual
Unique FeaturesEdible seeds, herbaceous plant.
MaintenanceLow
Mature Plant Size2-3 feet tall
Possible IssuesFew pest problems, occasional thinning.

Yes, you read it right – the seed that’s recently made headlines for its health benefits comes from a fast-growing plant. Whether you’re nurturing it indoors or outdoors, chia stands out as the go-to choice for both gardeners and health enthusiasts.

Chia’s easy-going growth makes it a great addition for gardeners with its moderate growth rate. Being an annual plant, it happily fits into any climate without being confined to specific USDA zones.

Basil

Basil
Image by Simple Garden Life
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameOcimum basilicum
Growth RateModerate to fast
Indoor/OutdoorBoth
USDA ZoneAnnual
Unique FeaturesFragrant leaves, culinary herb.
MaintenanceLow to moderate
Mature Plant Size12-24 inches tall, depending on the variety
Possible IssuesSusceptible to pests like aphids and whiteflies.

Basil easily stands out as the versatile culinary herb that effortlessly wins hearts with its fragrant leaves. Whether you’re cultivating it indoors or outdoors, basil remains a favorite among both gardeners and culinary enthusiasts.

Basil’s aromatic leaves, a culinary staple that elevates countless dishes, especially in Italian cuisine. Though relatively hardy, basil might encounter pests like aphids and whiteflies.

Lettuce

Lettuce
Image by Better Homes & Gardens
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameLactuca sativa
Growth RateModerate
Indoor/OutdoorBoth
USDA ZoneAnnual
Unique FeaturesEdible leaves, cool-season crop.
MaintenanceLow
Mature Plant Size6-12 inches tall, depending on the variety
Possible IssuesSusceptible to pests like aphids and slugs.

Your go-to leafy green vegetable is easy to grow and a culinary mainstay in salads and various dishes, whether cultivated indoors or outdoors. As a cool-season crop, lettuce reaches varying mature sizes, with different varieties ranging from 6-12 inches in height. 

Flexible with different soils and light conditions, lettuce thrives best in cooler temperatures. Maintenance leans towards the low side, with occasional thinning to ensure proper spacing and prevent overcrowding.

Cress

Cress
Image by Gardening etc
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameLepidium sativum
Growth RateFast (ready to harvest in 15-20 days)
Indoor/OutdoorBoth
USDA ZoneAnnual
Unique FeaturesPeppery-flavored leaves, quick maturation.
MaintenanceLow
Mature Plant Size6-12 inches tall, depending on the variety
Possible IssuesFew pest problems, occasional thinning.

Cress leaves carry a peppery kick, making it a distinctive addition to salads and sandwiches. With mature sizes varying, different varieties of cress reach heights of 6-12 inches. 

Whether you’re growing it indoors or outdoors, cress proves a favored choice for salads and garnishes, boasting a speedy maturation. Cress is versatile, thriving in different soil types and light conditions, with a preference for cooler temperatures. 

Dill

Dill
Image by The Spruce
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameAnethum graveolens
Growth RateModerate to fast
Indoor/OutdoorBoth
USDA ZoneAnnual
Unique FeaturesFeathery, aromatic leaves, culinary herb.
MaintenanceLow
Mature Plant Size2-3 feet tall
Possible IssuesAttracts pests like aphids and spider mites.

Dill stands out in the garden and in the kitchen for its flavorful and aromatic feathery leaves. Whether you’re growing it indoors or outdoors, dill is a sought-after choice for seasoning various dishes, particularly in pickling.

Dill is versatile, thriving in different soil types and light conditions, with a preference for full sun. Maintenance is generally low, occasionally involving pruning to foster bushier growth and deter flowering, as the leaves are most flavorful before this stage.

Catnip

Catnip
Image by The Spruce
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameNepeta cataria
Growth RateModerate
Indoor/OutdoorBoth
USDA Zone3-9
Unique FeaturesAromatic leaves, attractive to cats.
MaintenanceLow
Mature Plant Size2-3 feet tall
Possible IssuesAttracts cats, may become invasive.

If you have cats, then you know that catnip is a great addition to your garden and home due to its aromatic leaves that leave felines fascinated. This is because its aromatic leaves contain compounds that cause cats to roll, rub, and delight in playful antics.

Catnip is adaptable to varying soil types and light conditions while thriving under full sun to partial shade. Maintenance is generally low, involving occasional pruning to encourage bushier growth.

Peppermint

Peppermint
Image by Homes & Gardens
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameMentha × piperita
Growth RateFast
Indoor/OutdoorBoth
USDA Zone3-11
Unique FeaturesAromatic leaves, culinary and medicinal uses.
MaintenanceModerate
Mature Plant Size1-2 feet tall
Possible IssuesInvasive, prone to rust disease.

The aromatic peppermint herb is cherished and grown for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Whether you’re cultivating it indoors or outdoors, peppermint stands out for its invigorating flavor and versatile applications in food, teas, and traditional medicine.

Peppermint is pretty versatile in different soil types and light conditions. With mature sizes typically reaching 1-2 feet tall, the herb can be invasive, spreading through underground runners and potentially requiring containment measures.

Sage

Sage
Image by Rural Sprout
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameSalvia officinalis
Growth RateModerate
Indoor/OutdoorBoth
USDA Zone5-9
Unique FeaturesAromatic leaves, culinary and medicinal uses.
MaintenanceLow to moderate
Mature Plant Size1-2 feet tall
Possible IssuesProne to root rot in poorly-drained soil.

Regardless of whether it’s cultivated indoors or outdoors, sage is a favored choice, celebrated for its earthy flavor and diverse uses. Beyond its culinary applications, sage is recognized for its medicinal uses and potential health benefits.

While sage is generally hardy, make sure there’s well-draining soil to prevent root rot concerns. Maintenance is in the low to moderate category, involving occasional pruning to shape the plant and stimulate bushier growth.

Thyme

Thyme
Image by The Spruce
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameThymus vulgaris
Growth RateModerate
Indoor/OutdoorBoth
USDA Zone5-9
Unique FeaturesAromatic leaves, culinary and medicinal uses.
MaintenanceLow
Mature Plant Size6-12 inches tall, depending on the variety
Possible IssuesDrought-tolerant but may suffer in waterlogged soil.

Thyme adapts well to different soil types and light conditions though it flourishes best in full sun. It is regularly grown for its fragrant leaves used in various culinary and medicinal applications. 

While regular watering is essential during dry spells, thyme’s drought-tolerant nature means it can suffer in waterlogged soil. Maintenance requirements are generally low, involving occasional pruning to maintain a compact shape and encourage fuller growth.

Spider Plant

Spider Plant
Image by A-Z Animals
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameChlorophytum comosum
Growth RateModerate
Indoor/OutdoorPrimarily Indoor
USDA ZoneNot applicable
Unique FeaturesArching leaves, offsets or “pups”.
MaintenanceLow
Mature Plant Size12-18 inches tall, with arching leaves
Possible IssuesProne to tip burn, sensitive to fluoride in water.

The Spider Plant is known for its graceful leaves and the ability to produce offsets or “pups.” Typically grown as houseplants, spider plants are beloved among indoor plant enthusiasts.

Maintenance is generally undemanding, with regular watering needed to maintain consistently moist soil without waterlogging. Spider plants are usually grown in hanging baskets or as potted plants.

Snake Plant

Snake Plant
Image by La Résidence
FactorInformation
Ease of GrowthEasy ●○○○○
Scientific NameSansevieria trifasciata
Growth RateSlow to moderate
Indoor/OutdoorPrimarily Indoor
USDA ZoneNot applicable
Unique FeaturesTall, upright leaves with unique patterns.
MaintenanceLow
Mature Plant Size2-4 feet tall, depending on the variety
Possible IssuesSensitive to overwatering, can tolerate low light.

Mainly cultivated indoors as houseplants, snake plants have gained popularity among indoor plant enthusiasts. Distinguished by their upright leaves showcasing unique patterns, these stiff-leaved plants require minimal maintenance.

They’re known for their resilience and ability to withstand neglect. Snake plants are recognized for their air-purifying attributes that contribute to improved indoor air quality.

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