After a long Minneapolis winter, there is nothing like a burst of greenery to signal that spring has finally arrived. For students at the University of Minnesota, bringing the outdoors in is more than just a decor choice—it’s a proven way to reduce stress, improve air quality, and make your study environment feel more alive.
Whether you’re living in a cozy studio or a shared two-bedroom at The Station on Washington, adding a few “leafy roommates” is the easiest way to refresh your space. If you are looking for the best indoor plants that can survive a busy semester, here are our top picks for plants for students.
1. The “Watermelon” Peperomia
If you want a plant that doubles as decor, the Peperomia Argyreia is a standout. Its striped leaves resemble miniature watermelons, adding a unique touch to any space. Because it stays compact, it’s one of the best plants for apartments and works well in smaller areas. It doesn’t require a large window to thrive, making it perfect for styling on a shelf or tucked into a cozy corner of your Minneapolis student apartment.
2. Silver Satin Pothos
Think of this as an elevated version of the classic green pothos. Its matte green leaves have soft silver splashes that catch the light beautifully. It’s just as easy to care for as the original but feels more intentional and a bit more styled.
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3. Hoya Kerrii (Sweetheart Plant)
Perfect for a windowsill in your UMN student apartment, this plant is often sold as a single, heart-shaped leaf. It is a succulent, meaning it stores water in its thick leaf and can handle being ignored while you’re off-campus. It’s a low-demand roommate that adds a quirky, structural look to your nightstand.
4. The Chinese Money Plant (Pilea Peperomioides)
Known for its unique, coin-shaped leaves, the Pilea is a favorite for students living near UMN. It grows quickly and often produces small offshoots you can replant or share with friends in your building. It thrives in bright, indirect light, so placing it near a window will keep it putting out new leaves all spring.
5. String of Hearts
If you have a high shelf or a hanging planter, the String of Hearts is a great choice. Its delicate vines feature tiny heart-shaped leaves with soft silver tones and subtle purple underneath. Even though it looks fragile, it’s surprisingly low-maintenance and drought-tolerant—making it perfect for adding a light, styled touch to your UMN off-campus apartment without taking up floor space.
6. The Velvet-Leaf Philodendron
If you want something that feels luxurious, the Philodendron Micans is the answer. Its iridescent, heart-shaped leaves feel like velvet and shift from deep green to bronze depending on the light. It’s a resilient climber that looks incredible trailing down from a bookshelf, and like most Philodendrons, it’s very forgiving if you miss a watering during a busy week of classes.
Bring Your Space to Life
A few plants can completely change how your apartment feels—brighter, calmer, and more like your own. At The Station on Washington, it’s easy to refresh your space and make it work for your lifestyle this spring.