The Best Plant for Every Enneagram Type

Not all plants are created equal. Sure, some are more popular than others (we see you, fiddle leaf fig), but there’s a broad range of houseplants—whether it comes to appearance, water and light needs, durability, or difficulty level. It’s almost like they have personalities of their own!

Not sure which plant should be your next buy? For your best chance at successfully caring for a houseplant, choose one that matches your own personality type. And by that, we specifically mean your Enneagram type.

(Before you read on to determine which houseplant is best for you, take a free Enneagram test online!)

At their core, Enneagram Ones love two things: principle and purpose. The Boston fern can satisfy both. It’s a classic plant safe for both children and pets that, much to the One’s delight, serves a higher purpose than just hanging in the corner of a room: Boston ferns also act as natural air purifiers.

Twos are others-focused empaths, so a plant that requires a bit of extra attention and TLC is right up their alley. Monstera deliciosa, also known as the cheese plant, is a bit temperamental. Not only does the cheese plant struggle with too much sunlight, it also requires regular washing to thrive. But let’s be honest, the intuitive Helper probably already knew that.

The Achiever is here for status, yes, but this hard-working personality can also handle a houseplant that’s a little bit more complicated to take care of. The ultra-trendy fiddle leaf fig meets both criteria: It’s attractive and popular, but much to some plant parents’ surprise, it’s also quite finicky, requiring *just* the right amount of sunlight. 

A standard green houseplant won’t do for poetic, emotional Individualists, who would much rather take care of something as unique as they are. Nerve plants, aka Fittonia, are nicknamed for their vibrant red leaf veins—which makes them the ideal, quirky accent for any corner of the Four’s already-dreamy home.

Given their penchant for reading up on just about everything, you might think the Investigator would opt for a more demanding plant. But since the Five’s core desire is to be competent and helpful, why not set them up for success with a plant that’s relatively easy to keep alive? No matter how much you water the low-light

Type 6: Venus Fly Trap 

The houseplant equivalent of a security system, the Venus fly trap is the perfect match for the sometimes-anxious Six, but not only because it catches insect prey. The responsible and committed Loyalist will also be up for the task of keeping the Venus fly trap alive by matching its native conditions of bright sunlight and moderate temperatures.

Type 7: Cactus

Cacti are notoriously low maintenance, which means fun-loving, spontaneous Sevens can book last-minute vacations without worrying about their plant babies back home. Bonus: Cacti are also whimsical and fun, adding a sunny, tropical vibe to any household — just like the Enthusiast!

Type 8: Orchid

Known for their independence and confidence, the Challenger is, well, looking for a challenge. Look no further than the orchid, one of the more high-maintenance plants out there. Eights will also fawn over the orchid’s slender stem and vibrant blooms, which add a touch of elegance and mystique.

Type 9: Peace Lily 

It just makes sense, and not just because the Peacekeeper and peace lily share a name. The peace lily is both stunning and extremely adaptable and easy to keep happy, requiring low light and watering just once a week—which means Nines won’t have to worry about disrupting anyone’s peace.