Not everyone has a home flooded with natural sunlight, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the beauty and benefits of indoor plants. There are plenty of stunning and hardy plants that thrive in low light conditions, perfect for apartments, offices, or rooms with limited windows.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the best options for low-light indoor plants, how to care for them, and which highly rated products can help keep them healthy and happy.
Why Choose Indoor Plants for Low Light?
Low-light indoor plants don’t just survive in dim spaces—they thrive. These plants are naturally adapted to grow under the canopy of trees or in shaded areas, making them perfect for areas with indirect sunlight or even artificial light. Adding these plants to your home or office can improve air quality, reduce stress, and enhance your decor.
Best Indoor Plants for Low Light
Here’s a list of the best indoor plants that don’t require bright sunlight to flourish:
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
The snake plant, also known as the mother-in-law’s tongue, is one of the easiest plants to care for. Its tall, upright leaves and striking variegated patterns make it a favorite for modern decor.
- Light Needs: Low to moderate light.
- Care Tips: Water sparingly; let the soil dry out between waterings.
- Product Recommendation: A stylish planter like the LA JOLIE MUSE Ceramic Plant Pot will complement your snake plant beautifully.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
If you’re prone to forgetting about your plants, the ZZ plant is for you. It’s virtually indestructible, making it perfect for beginners.
- Light Needs: Tolerates low light but grows faster in moderate light.
- Care Tips: Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering.
- Product Recommendation: Use a self-watering pot like the Mkono Self-Watering Planter to simplify care.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is a low-maintenance trailing plant with heart-shaped leaves. It’s a fantastic choice for hanging baskets or shelves.
- Light Needs: Thrives in low light but can handle brighter conditions.
- Care Tips: Trim back vines regularly to encourage fullness.
- Product Recommendation: Display your pothos in a Macrame Plant Hanger Set for an elegant, boho look.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The peace lily is known for its lush green leaves and delicate white blooms. It also acts as a natural air purifier.
- Light Needs: Low to moderate light.
- Care Tips: Keep soil moist but not soggy, and mist leaves occasionally to maintain humidity.
- Product Recommendation: Use a moisture meter like the Sonkir Soil Moisture Meter to ensure proper watering.
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese evergreens come in a variety of colors and patterns, from green to pink and red. They’re perfect for adding a pop of color to dim spaces.
- Light Needs: Grows well in low to medium light.
- Care Tips: Avoid overwatering; they prefer slightly dry soil.
- Product Recommendation: Pair with the FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil for healthy growth.
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
True to its name, the cast iron plant is nearly indestructible. It’s great for low-light areas where other plants might struggle.
- Light Needs: Very low light.
- Care Tips: Tolerates neglect but grows best with occasional watering and light fertilizing.
- Product Recommendation: Use a fertilizer like Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food every few months.
Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
The parlor palm adds a tropical touch to your space with its feathery fronds. It’s a favorite for adding height and texture to a room.
- Light Needs: Low to moderate light.
- Care Tips: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, and keep away from drafts.
- Product Recommendation: Showcase this plant in a Mid-Century Modern Plant Stand for a chic look.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are known for their cascading green-and-white striped leaves. They’re easy to care for and propagate.
- Light Needs: Tolerates low light but thrives in bright, indirect light.
- Care Tips: Water when the soil feels dry and trim brown tips as needed.
- Product Recommendation: Try a Hanging Glass Terrarium for a unique way to display spider plants.
Dracaena
Dracaena plants come in several varieties, all of which are excellent for low-light environments. Their tall, sculptural form makes them a stylish choice.
- Light Needs: Low to bright indirect light.
- Care Tips: Wipe leaves occasionally to remove dust and allow for better light absorption.
- Product Recommendation: Place your dracaena in a Self-Watering Floor Planter for convenience.
Philodendron
Philodendrons are versatile and fast-growing, with lush, trailing vines or upright leaves. They’re great for adding greenery to shelves or corners.
- Light Needs: Low to moderate light.
- Care Tips: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, and rotate the plant occasionally for even growth.
- Product Recommendation: Use a grow light like the GE Grow Light Bulb if your room is especially dim.
Tips for Caring for Low-Light Indoor Plants
Even low-light plants need some basic care to thrive. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Don’t Overwater
Most indoor plants die from overwatering rather than underwatering. Use pots with drainage holes and water only when the soil feels dry.
Wipe the Leaves
Dust can accumulate on leaves and block light. Wipe them gently with a damp cloth to keep your plants healthy.
Use the Right Soil
Low-light plants often prefer well-draining soil. Add perlite or sand to your potting mix for better aeration.
Supplement Light If Necessary
If your space lacks natural light altogether, consider using LED grow lights like the Spider Farmer LED Grow Light.
Decorative Ideas for Low-Light Plants
Low-light plants are as much about style as they are about function. Here’s how to incorporate them into your decor:
- Group Plants Together: Create a cozy, jungle-like corner by grouping plants with different heights and textures.
- Use Plant Stands: Elevate plants with stands to add vertical interest.
- Hanging Plants: Maximize space with hanging planters.
- Shelving: Place smaller plants like pothos or philodendrons on shelves for a cascading effect.
Final Thoughts
Low-light indoor plants are perfect for anyone who wants to bring greenery into their home without needing a sun-soaked space. With options ranging from the hardy snake plant to the lush peace lily, you can find the perfect plant to suit your style and space.
Plus, with the right care and tools—many of which are conveniently available on Amazon—you’ll enjoy healthy, thriving plants that brighten your home for years to come.So go ahead, pick your favorites, and start transforming your low-light space into a green oasis today!