Not every home is blessed with big windows and abundant sunshine — but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy lush greenery indoors. Many beautiful and low-maintenance plants are perfectly suited for low-light environments, making them ideal for apartments, offices, shaded corners, and north-facing rooms.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best low-light plants, how to care for them, and tips to keep them thriving even in darker spaces.
What Does “Low Light” Actually Mean?
Before jumping into plant picks, let’s define what low light really is.
Low light doesn’t mean no light. Plants still need some access to natural or artificial light to survive. Low-light spaces usually include:
- Rooms with north-facing windows
- Areas several feet away from a bright window
- Basements or hallways with small or frosted windows
- Corners that are bright during part of the day but receive no direct sunlight
If you can comfortably read a book in a room without turning on a light during the day, most low-light plants will do just fine.
Top Plants That Grow Well in Low Light
1. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Why it’s great:
Almost indestructible. The ZZ plant tolerates low light, neglect, and even irregular watering.
Care Tips:
- Water only when soil is fully dry
- Wipe leaves occasionally for shine
- Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the foliage
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Why it’s great:
Tolerates both low light and dry conditions. It’s also one of the top air-purifying plants.
Care Tips:
- Water sparingly — every 2–3 weeks
- Thrives in any type of light but prefers indirect light
- Great for bedrooms and hallways
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Why it’s great:
Fast-growing, trailing vines that do well in dim spaces and look amazing in hanging baskets.
Care Tips:
- Let soil dry between waterings
- Trim vines to encourage fullness
- Wipe leaves to remove dust
4. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
Why it’s great:
True to its name, the cast iron plant is incredibly tough and can live in nearly any indoor setting.
Care Tips:
- Low water needs
- Tolerates neglect, low humidity, and low light
- Perfect for people who travel often
5. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Why it’s great:
This elegant plant blooms even in low light and helps clean indoor air.
Care Tips:
- Keep soil lightly moist
- Mist leaves occasionally for humidity
- Avoid placing in direct sun — it prefers shade
6. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Why it’s great:
Available in many leaf colors and patterns, this plant brightens up dark spaces.
Care Tips:
- Water moderately — don’t let the soil dry out completely
- Loves warmth and humidity
- Avoid cold drafts
7. Philodendron
Why it’s great:
Whether upright or vining, philodendrons are excellent low-light options.
Care Tips:
- Water when topsoil is dry
- Great in hanging pots or on bookshelves
- Prune to maintain shape
Caring for Plants in Low Light Conditions
Low-light plants don’t mean no-care. Here are some ways to keep them healthy:
1. Rotate Regularly
Plants will naturally lean toward light sources. Rotate them every week or two for even growth.
2. Avoid Overwatering
Low light slows down growth, so plants use less water. Always check the soil before watering.
3. Keep Leaves Clean
Dust can block what little light your plant receives. Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth.
4. Use Artificial Light If Needed
LED grow lights are a great way to support low-light plants, especially during winter months.
Styling Ideas for Low-Light Spaces
Just because your room is dim doesn’t mean it can’t look beautiful. Try these styling tips:
- Place tall plants like ZZ plants in dark corners to fill empty spaces
- Use Pothos or Philodendron on floating shelves or hanging from the ceiling
- Add a Peace Lily to your bathroom for elegance and improved air quality
- Use plant stands and mirrors to reflect light and brighten the space
Bonus Tip: Don’t Be Fooled by Bright-Looking Rooms
Some rooms look well-lit, but the light intensity may still be too low for sun-loving plants. For example, a room with large windows but no direct sunlight in the afternoon can still be considered low light.
The Quiet Beauty of Shade-Tolerant Plants
Low-light plants may not grow as quickly or bloom as often, but they bring a special kind of beauty — calm, steady, and subtle. They’re the quiet achievers of the plant world, thriving where others would struggle.
So if your home doesn’t get much sun, don’t worry — your indoor jungle is still within reach.