Earth star (Cryptanthus) shows off bright red or pink foliage in a star-shaped pattern. This pineapple relative likes bright light and can dry out a bit between waterings.

Echeveria is one of the trendiest succulents around. Most grow only a few inches tall and wide, and come in soft shades of gray, blue, green and purple. They like bright light and drying out between waterings. Learn more about caring for succulents.

Friendship plants (Pilea) are increasingly trendy houseplants that feature fun foliage. Most grow best in medium to bright light and like regular watering.

Nerve plants (Fittonia) stay under a foot tall and wide – and boast colorful foliage all year long. They tolerate low light, too, though need regular watering and like average to high humidity.

Silver lace fern (Pteris) a small fern with finely textured fronds frosted in silver. Like most ferns, it tolerates low light and thrives when kept in a moist, humid spot – like a terrarium. Learn how to make a DIY terrarium with succulents and ferns.

Waffle plant (Hemigraphis) earned its common name due to its leaves’ crinkly texture. It’s a tidy, petite plant that stays under 12 inches tall and wide. Grow it in low, medium or bright light and keep it moist.

There are houseplants for every site and situation. In addition to these small space favorites, you can look for reliable favorites like dracaena, aglaonema (Chinese evergreen), rubber plant, aloe, pothos and sansevieria (snake plant) to add to your collection.