I wish I’d inherited my mother’s green thumb. But truth is, when it comes to plants, if it’s alive in my house it’s probably pretty hardy. Here are the five types of plants that have survived even my hands. White birds of paradise. I love big, dramatic plants, and I had to have one on each side of our bed. I’ve lost track of how many palms and peace lilies I went through before giving up. Then I found these white birds of paradise and they are so happy!