The Ultimate Guide to Low Light Houseplants: 20 Plants That Thrive Indoors
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Creating a green haven indoors can be tricky if your space lacks natural light, but low light doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the beauty of houseplants.
Whether you’re decorating a dimly lit corner, brightening up an office, or filling your bathroom with greenery, there are plenty of plants that thrive in less sunlight.
From the resilient ZZ Plant to the beautiful Calathea, here’s a list of 20 indoor plants that are perfect for low light spaces.
Why Choose Low Light Houseplants?
Before we dive into the list, let’s take a quick look at why low light plants are such a fantastic choice for many indoor spaces. Low light plants are usually adapted to shaded environments in nature, like the forest floor.
They can tolerate or even prefer indirect light, which makes them perfect for indoor spaces that don’t get much direct sunlight. Plus, they tend to be low maintenance, which is ideal for beginner plant parents or those with a busy schedule.
1. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
One of the most resilient houseplants, the ZZ Plant has dark green, glossy leaves that can thrive in low light with minimal care. It’s also very drought tolerant, making it an ideal choice if you’re forgetful about watering.
Care Tips: Place it in indirect or low light, and water sparingly.
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Known as Mother in Law’s Tongue, the Snake Plant is a hardy choice that tolerates low light and is nearly indestructible. Its upright, sword like leaves are perfect for adding structure to any room.
Care Tips: Water only when the soil is completely dry, as it’s prone to root rot.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is a classic indoor plant that grows well in various light conditions, including low light. Its trailing vines with heart shaped leaves add a lush touch to shelves and hanging baskets.
Care Tips: Tolerates low light but prefers indirect light. Water when the soil is partially dry.
4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The Peace Lily is famous for its glossy leaves and white blooms. It’s also an air purifier, making it a popular choice for indoor spaces with limited light.
Care Tips: Likes low to medium light. Water regularly and mist occasionally.
5. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
True to its name, the Cast Iron Plant is nearly indestructible and can survive in very low light. Its long leaves make it a stylish option for any room.
Care Tips: Low light is ideal, and it doesn’t need much water only once the soil dries out.
6. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese Evergreens are attractive, low maintenance plants with variegated leaves. They thrive in low light and add a splash of colour to your indoor jungle.
Care Tips: Likes low to moderate light and minimal watering.
7. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Spider Plant is easy to grow, even in low light conditions. Its long, arching leaves add a touch of movement and energy to your indoor space.
Care Tips: Tolerates low light but thrives in bright, indirect light. Water once the top inch of soil is dry.
8. Philodendron Heartleaf (Philodendron hederaceum)
With its trailing vines and heart shaped leaves, the Heartleaf Philodendron brings a lush, tropical look to any room. It’s a fast grower even in lower light conditions.
Care Tips: Best in low to medium light; water when the top inch of soil is dry.
9. Dracaena
Dracaena is a diverse genus that includes several varieties perfect for low light, such as Dracaena marginata and Dracaena fragrans. They’re easy to care for and great for adding height to your indoor jungle.
Care Tips: Prefers low to medium light and doesn’t need frequent watering.
10. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
This small, elegant palm thrives in low light and is popular for bringing a tropical feel to indoor spaces.
Care Tips: Low to medium light is best, and water when the soil is partially dry.
11. Calathea
Calatheas are known for their stunningly patterned leaves and are often called “prayer plants” because their leaves move in response to light changes. They prefer low light, but they can be a bit temperamental.
Care Tips: Keep in low to medium light, and water consistently to keep the soil slightly moist.
12. Devil’s Ivy (Scindapsus pictus)
Also known as Satin Pothos, Devil’s Ivy has heart shaped leaves with silver variegation. It’s tolerant of low light and grows well in hanging baskets.
Care Tips: Thrives in low light; water when the top inch of soil is dry.
13. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
This tropical plant is great for low light and adds a touch of elegance with its feathery leaves.
Care Tips: Best in low to medium light; water when the top inch of soil is dry.
14. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston Ferns are classic low light plants with beautiful, arching fronds. They love humidity, making them perfect for bathrooms or kitchens.
Care Tips: Place in low to medium light and keep the soil moist.
15. Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)
This fern has thick, wavy fronds and does well in lower light conditions. It’s great for adding a bit of texture and interest to your plant collection.
Care Tips: Prefers low light and consistent moisture.
16. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Often grown in water, Lucky Bamboo is adaptable to low light and is said to bring good fortune.
Care Tips: Thrives in low light, whether in soil or water. Change water regularly if grown hydroponically.
17. Aglaonema
Aglaonema, or Chinese Evergreen, is a colourful option for low light spaces, with varieties featuring red, pink, and green foliage.
Care Tips: Low to medium light is ideal, and it prefers regular watering.
18. Arrowhead Plant (Syngonium podophyllum)
With its arrow shaped leaves, this trailing plant grows well in low light and makes a lovely addition to bookshelves or windowsills.
Care Tips: Low to medium light, with watering when the soil is partially dry.
19. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English Ivy is an excellent choice for low light rooms and can be grown as a trailing or climbing plant.
Care Tips: Prefers indirect light and regular watering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering.
20. Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)
The Maidenhair Fern has delicate, feathery fronds that thrive in low light and add a soft, romantic look to your space.
Care Tips: Low light and high humidity are ideal, with consistently moist soil.
Final Tips for Keeping Your Low Light Houseplants Happy
- Avoid Overwatering: Many low light plants are prone to root rot if overwatered. Always check if the soil is dry before watering.
- Clean the Leaves: Dust can accumulate on leaves, blocking light. Gently wipe leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks.
- Rotate Your Plants: Rotate your plants occasionally to encourage even growth.
- Use a Humidifier: If your indoor air is dry, especially in winter, consider using a humidifier to keep humidity levels up for your ferns and calatheas.
By choosing the right low light plants and giving them a little TLC, you can enjoy a thriving indoor jungle even in dim spaces. These plants will reward you with lush greenery and bring a touch of nature into your home, no matter the light level.