Not everyone has the luxury of lots of sunlight streaming through their windows. But that doesn’t mean your green thumb can’t have a little fun.
So I’m going through some of best plants that are perfect for those of you with less-than-sunny spots in your homes or gardens.
These are ten fantastic plants that thrive in low-light conditions proving that a lack of sunlight isn’t a barrier to a wonderful indoor garden.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Starting off strong, we have the peace lily, a champion in the low light indoor plant community. This glossy green beauty not only tolerates low light but also blooms with striking white flowers that can bring a touch of peace to any space (hence the name!). Peace lilies are also known for their air-purifying qualities, making them a dual-threat in the plant world: look great and are functional.
Growing Conditions: Thrives in well-draining potting soil and low to medium light.
Watering Needs: Keep the soil consistently moist. Water thoroughly once the top inch of soil feels dry.
Location Tips: Best placed in a room with a window that receives filtered light, such as a sheer-curtained window. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Snake plants, or mother-in-law’s tongue, are nearly indestructible and can thrive on neglect, making them perfect for beginners or those who travel often. They prefer dim corners and need very little water, thriving in dry soil and minimal light. Their upright, striped leaves provide a modern touch to any room. Plus they’re excellent at filtering indoor air. What’s not to like!?
Growing Conditions: Prefers free-draining soil mixtures as it’s prone to root rot.
Watering Needs: Water sparingly; allow the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Location Tips: Ideal for spots away from windows or in dimly lit hallways. Can tolerate some direct sunlight but thrives in shade.
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
True to its name, the cast iron plant is tough as nails. It can withstand a lot of abuse, including poor light, extreme temperatures and infrequent watering. Its lush, dark green leaves give it a sophisticated look, making it a good choice for office spaces or a minimalist home décor.
Growing Conditions: Does well in rich, well-draining soil and low light conditions.
Watering Needs: Water moderately to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Less water is required during the winter months.
Location Tips: Perfect for north-facing rooms or bathrooms with minimal natural light.
Philodendron
Philodendrons are a large family of plants that are known for their ability to adapt to low light conditions. The heartleaf philodendron, in particular, is a favorite for its fast growing, trailing vines that can add a nice touch of green to shelves and bookcases. These plants are low maintenance and are forgiving if you forget a watering or two.
Growing Conditions: Prefers a loose, well-draining potting mix. Thrives in low-light conditions.
Watering Needs: Likes the soil to be kept consistently damp; water when the top inch of soil dries out.
Location Tips: Great for hanging baskets in shaded corners or draped along shelves where the trailing vines can hang freely.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant has waxy, hearty leaves that can brighten up a dim space. They can survive for months without water and still look fresh. Their ability to grow in low light and dry conditions makes them nearly maintenance free.
Growing Conditions: Best in well-draining soil. Highly drought-tolerant.
Watering Needs: Water infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Location Tips: Suitable for office spaces with fluorescent lighting or any part of the home that receives minimal daylight.
Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)
This delicate fern needs a bit more attention compared to others on this list, but its unique charm is worth the effort. Maidenhair ferns thrive in low light and high humidity, making them perfect for bathrooms that receive little natural light. Their soft, feathery fronds are visually stunning and can soften any space.
Growing Conditions: Loves moisture and well-draining soil rich in organic matter.
Watering Needs: Keep the soil consistently moist. Mist regularly to maintain high humidity.
Location Tips: Thrives in bathrooms where steam from showers can increase humidity levels, or kitchens with moderate light.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are fun and easy to care for. They prefer indirect light but will do just fine in low light. They’re known for their arching leaves and small plantlets that hang down from the mother plant, resembling spiders on a web. Spider plants are also great at purifying the air and are safe for pets.
Growing Conditions: Enjoys well-draining potting soil and can tolerate some degree of neglect.
Watering Needs: Water thoroughly but let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings.
Location Tips: Ideal for kitchens and living rooms with windows facing north or east. Works well in hanging baskets or on high shelves.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos, or devil’s ivy, is a versatile plant. Its trailing vines can grow long and lush even in dim corners of your home. It’s not fussy about water or feeding, making it ideal for those who want a dramatic look with minimal effort.
Growing Conditions: Can grow in a variety of soil types, from well-draining to slightly more compact soils.
Watering Needs: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Tolerant of irregular watering.
Location Tips: Perfect for shelves and mantels where its vines can cascade down gracefully. Avoid direct sunlight.
Calathea
Calatheas are loved for their colorful, patterned foliage that can add depth and beauty to any low light area. They do need a bit more humidity and consistent watering compared to some other plants on this list but their visual impact is undeniable, with leaves that move from day to night in a rhythm all their own.
Growing Conditions: Prefers humidity and a good potting mix that retains moisture yet drains well.
Watering Needs: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Calatheas are sensitive to fluoride in tap water, so use distilled or non-fluoridated water.
Location Tips: Ideal for placing on a pebble tray to increase humidity around the plant, suitable for bathrooms with minimal light.
Japanese Sedge (Carex morrowii)
For those of you looking for something a bit different Japanese sedge offers a grassy, textured look with minimal light needs. It grows in clumps and can add a touch of the outdoors to any indoor space. It’s especially good for adding structure and form to your indoor garden.
Growing Conditions: Likes cool, moist conditions and a rich, well-draining soil.
Watering Needs: Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during warmer months.
Location Tips: Works well in nooks or crannies of your living space that receive low levels of natural light but have cool temperatures.
Growing plants without much sunlight can seem limiting at first but as these examples show there are plenty of options out there. These plants allow you to enjoy all the joy of gardening and the benefits plants bring to your life but indoors and out of the light.
