Finding houseplants that survive in darker rooms can be frustrating, especially when many indoor plants struggle without bright sunlight.
Fortunately, several low light houseplants adapt well to apartments, offices, bedrooms, hallways, and other indoor spaces with limited natural light.
Some of the best houseplants for low light include snake plants, pothos, ZZ plants, peace lilies, and spider plants. These indoor plants are popular because they tolerate dimmer conditions while still adding greenery and texture to indoor spaces.
This guide covers the best low light indoor plants, common care mistakes, pet safety concerns, watering tips, and how to keep houseplants healthy in darker rooms.
What You’ll Learn
- Which houseplants grow best in low light indoors
- How to care for low light indoor plants properly
- Common mistakes that damage low light plants
- Which low light plants are safer for pets
- Signs your indoor plants need more light
- Easy beginner plants for apartments and darker rooms
Best Houseplants for Low Light
Ready to turn those dim, dreary corners of your home into cozy, green sanctuaries? You’ve come to the right place!
Our guide dives deep into the world of the best houseplants for low light, offering you a variety of options that are as easy to care for as they are beautiful.
No bright light? No problem! Turn that dark corner in your living room into a green wonder.
We’ll cover everything from what exactly constitutes a low light environment to how to keep your new leafy friends happy and healthy.
So, let’s get started and make your home a plant paradise, shall we?
Importance of Houseplants in Home Decor
Houseplants have become more than just decorative items; they’re now considered essential elements for creating a balanced and harmonious living space.
Indoor plants bring a slice of nature into our homes, offering both aesthetic and psychological benefits.
Looking to add a touch of green to those dim corners of your home? You’re in luck! Our guide on the best houseplants for low light is here to help you transform those shadowy spaces into lush, vibrant havens.
Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a budding green thumb, we’ve got the perfect picks to make your low-light rooms come alive.
The Challenge of Low Light Conditions
However, not every home is flooded with natural light. Many people live in apartments or houses where some rooms get little to no direct sunlight.
This can make it challenging to keep plants healthy and thriving.
Purpose of the Article
This article aims to solve that problem by providing a comprehensive guide on the best houseplants that not only survive but thrive in low-light conditions.
What Constitutes a Low Light Environment?
Definition of Low Light
In botanical terms, low light conditions refer to spaces that receive less than 200 foot-candles of light.
In simpler terms, if a room is too dark to comfortably read a book for an extended period, it’s considered low light.
Common Low Light Areas in Homes
These areas often include bathrooms without windows, hallways, and rooms with north-facing windows.
Even a room with a large window can have low light if it’s frequently covered by curtains or blinds.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Houseplant for Low Light
So you’re all set to bring home some leafy companions, but wait—there’s more to consider than just picking the prettiest plant on the shelf!
In this section, we’ll delve into the key factors you should keep in mind when choosing the best houseplants for low light.
We’re talking low maintenance levels, air-purifying qualities, and even pet safety.
Trust us, a little bit of prep now will make your plant-parenting journey a whole lot smoother. Let’s dive in!
Maintenance Level
Consider how much time you can realistically dedicate to plant care. Some plants are forgiving and require minimal attention, making them ideal for busy or forgetful owners.
Air-Purifying Qualities
Plants like the Snake Plant and Spider Plant are known for their air-purifying abilities.
They can filter out harmful toxins and improve indoor air quality.
Pet Safety
If you have pets, it’s crucial to choose plants that are non-toxic to them.
Many plants can cause digestive issues or other health problems if ingested by pets.
Which of the 5 plants mentioned are toxic to pets?
If you have pets, it’s crucial to know which plants are safe and which aren’t. Among the five plants mentioned:
• Snake Plant: Toxic to both cats and dogs. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested.
• ZZ Plant: Also toxic to both cats and dogs. Ingesting it can lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and skin irritation.
• Pothos: Toxic to both cats and dogs. It can cause oral irritation, intense burning, and irritation of the mouth, lips, tongue, and excessive drooling.
• Peace Lily: Toxic to both cats and dogs. It can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty in swallowing, and intense burning and irritation of the mouth, lips, tongue.
• Spider Plant: Generally considered non-toxic to both cats and dogs. It’s one of the safer options if you have pets.
So, if you have pets, the Spider Plant would be the safest choice among these five. Always consult with your vet if you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant.
Top 5 Houseplants for Low Light
These aren’t just any plants; they’re the crème de la crème when it comes to thriving in those less-than-sunny spots in your home.
We’ll walk you through care instructions and spill the beans on the unique benefits each plant brings to the table. Ready to meet your new roommates? Let’s go!
Snake Plant
Care Instructions
Ah, the Snake Plant, also known as Sansevieria or “Mother-in-Law’s Tongue.” This plant is as low-maintenance as they come.
Seriously, if you’re the type who forgets to water your plants, this one’s for you. Just water it sparingly once every 2-3 weeks is usually enough.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so when in doubt, let the soil dry out a bit between waterings.
Benefits
Now, let’s talk perks. The Snake Plant is an air-purifying champion. It has a unique ability to perform photosynthesis at night, unlike most plants which only do so during the day.
This means it can convert CO2 into oxygen even when the sun’s not out, making it a great bedroom companion.
ZZ Plant
Care Instructions
Next up is the ZZ Plant, a plant so easy to care for that it’s often called “the king of neglect.”
Water it only when the soil is bone dry. It’s that simple. This plant is also highly resistant to pests, which is always a plus.
Benefits
The ZZ Plant has glossy, dark green leaves that can brighten up any space. It’s not just a pretty face, though.
This plant is known for its ability to survive in low light and even artificial light conditions, making it perfect for office spaces or rooms with little natural light.
Pothos
Care Instructions
The Pothos, with its heart-shaped leaves, is a real crowd-pleaser. It’s forgiving when it comes to watering.
If you forget once in a while, it won’t hold a grudge. Just try to keep the soil slightly moist for the best results.
Benefits
Besides its good looks, the Pothos is also an excellent air purifier. It can remove toxins like xylene, benzene, and formaldehyde from the air.
Plus, it’s super easy to propagate. Just snip off a cutting, place it in water, and watch it grow!
Peace Lily
Care Instructions
Peace Lilies are a bit more finicky compared to our other stars. It likes its soil to be kept moist but not waterlogged.
If you notice the leaves drooping, that’s its way of asking for a drink.
Also, it prefers filtered water to tap water, as it’s sensitive to chemicals like chlorine.
Benefits
The Peace Lily is a showstopper with its beautiful white blooms. But it’s not just about the looks.
This plant is also a fantastic air purifier. It can filter out harmful toxins like ammonia and formaldehyde, making your home a healthier place to live.
Spider Plant
Care Instructions
Last but not least, we have the Spider Plant. This one likes well-drained soil and moderate watering.
If the tips of its leaves start turning brown, it might be a sign that you’re overwatering or that the water you’re using is too hard.
Benefits
The Spider Plant is non-toxic to pets, so it’s a great choice for animal lovers.
It’s also an excellent air purifier, capable of removing pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene.
Plus, it’s super easy to propagate. Before you know it, you’ll have baby Spider Plants to share with friends and family!
There you have a detailed look at the top 5 houseplants for low light, complete with care instructions and benefits.
Bonus Section 5 More Low Light Plants to Try
Here a some other new plants that will grow under low-light conditions and are low-maintenance plants.
This is not the same as no light. All plants need at least a little light to grow. If you have a dark area use fluorescent lights or LED grow lights.
Pet Safe Or Not?
Let’s go through each of these plants and determine their safety for pets:
Croton: Not pet-safe. If ingested, it can cause skin irritation, mouth swelling, vomiting, and other symptoms in both cats and dogs.
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema): Not pet-safe. It contains calcium oxalate crystals which can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if ingested by pets.
Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans): Pet-safe! This plant is non-toxic to both cats and dogs, making it a popular choice for pet owners.
Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana): Not pet-safe. While it’s called “bamboo,” it’s not a true bamboo. If ingested, it can cause vomiting, drooling, and other symptoms in pets due to the presence of toxic compounds.
Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa): Not pet-safe. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause oral irritation, intense burning, and irritation of the mouth, lips, and tongue, and excessive drooling in pets.
Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior or Cast Iron Plant): Generally considered pet-safe. It’s non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
While the Parlor Palm and Iron Plant are considered safe, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your pets and ensure they don’t chew on plants.
Even non-toxic plants can cause digestive upset if ingested. If you ever suspect your pet has ingested a harmful plant, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately.
Croton
Crotons are a burst of color and a favorite for many plant enthusiasts, but they do have their specific needs. Here’s the lowdown:
Care Instructions
Light: These beauties thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. The colors of their leaves pop more vibrantly with the right amount of light.
But be cautious, direct sunlight can be a tad too harsh and might cause their leaves to burn.
Water: Patience is key here. Wait for the top inch of the soil to dry out before giving it another drink.
This plant isn’t a fan of soggy feet, so ensure your pot drains well to avoid root rot.
Temperature: Think tropical! Crotons are happiest in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F.
Cold drafts or sudden temperature drops? Not their cup of tea.
Soil: Drainage is crucial. Opt for a well-draining potting mix. If you find water pooling, consider mixing in some perlite to help with drainage.
Benefits
Color Galore: The Croton’s claim to fame is undoubtedly its vibrant foliage. From yellows and reds to oranges and deep purples, it’s a visual treat that can brighten up any space.
Air Cleaner: Beyond its good looks, the Croton is also an ally in keeping your indoor air fresh by filtering out certain pollutants.
Versatility: While they have their quirks, with the right care, Crotons can adapt and thrive in various indoor settings.
A little word to the wise: If you’ve got pets that love nibbling on plants, be cautious.
Crotons can be toxic when ingested. Always best to keep them out of reach.
Read more about growing crotons.
Chinese Evergreen
Care Instructions
The Chinese Evergreen is another low-maintenance gem. It prefers well-drained moist soil and likes to be watered when the top inch of the soil is dry. It’s pretty forgiving if you forget to water it once in a while.
Benefits
This plant is not just easy to care for; it’s also a great air purifier. It can remove pollutants like benzene and formaldehyde from the air. Plus, its variegated leaves add a splash of color to any room.
Parlor Palm
Care Instructions
The Parlor Palm prefers a well-drained potting mix and indirect light. Water it when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. It’s also sensitive to over-fertilizing, so less is more.
Benefits
This plant is a classic choice for an elegant, timeless look. It’s also pet-friendly and can adapt to a variety of indoor conditions, making it versatile as well as beautiful.
Lucky Bamboo
Care Instructions
Lucky Bamboo is unique in that it can grow in both water and soil. If you’re growing it in water, change the water every week. If it’s in soil, water it when the top inch becomes dry.
Benefits
As its name suggests, Lucky Bamboo is often associated with good luck and is a popular choice for Feng Shui arrangements. It’s also incredibly easy to care for, making it great for beginners.
Swiss Cheese Plant
Care Instructions
The Swiss Cheese Plant, also known as Monstera, likes a well-draining soil mix and indirect light. Water it when the soil feels dry up to your first knuckle.
Benefits
This plant is a real showstopper with its unique, holey leaves. It’s also relatively easy to care for and can grow quite large, making it a striking focal point for any room.
Iron Plant
Care Instructions
The Iron Plant, or Cast Iron Plant, lives up to its name. It’s tough as nails. Water it when the soil is dry to the touch, and it’ll be just fine.
Benefits
This plant is nearly indestructible and can tolerate a wide range of conditions, including low light, low humidity, and temperature fluctuations. It’s the perfect plant for those who don’t have a green thumb.
There you go! Now you’ve got a broader list of low-light plants to consider, each with its own set of care instructions and benefits. Happy planting!
How to Care for Low-Light Houseplants
In this section, we’ll go beyond just naming the best houseplants for low light and get into the nitty-gritty of how to keep them thriving.
We’re talking watering, fertilizing, and even the art of repotting. Trust us, with these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to earning that coveted “Plant Whisperer” title among your friends. Let’s get started!
Watering
The most common mistake people make is overwatering their tropical plants. Always check the soil before watering. If it’s dry to the touch, it’s time to water.
Fertilizing
Most low-light plants don’t require frequent fertilizing. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer applied every six weeks is usually sufficient.
Repotting
Plants grow, and eventually, they’ll outgrow their pots. Repot your plants every 2-3 years to give them more room to grow and ensure better nutrient absorption.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Ah, the pitfalls of plant parenting. Let’s be honest, we’ve all been there.
Overwatering, under-fertilizing, you name it. But don’t worry, this section is all about helping you sidestep those common blunders.
We’ll go over the usual mistakes people make when caring for low light houseplants and how to avoid them.
Because let’s face it, nobody wants to be the person who killed a “hard-to-kill” plant.
So, grab a notepad, because you’ll want to remember these tips for a long, happy plant life!
Overwatering
The classic mistake is overwatering. It’s like giving someone too much love; it comes from a good place but can end up doing more harm than good.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is basically the plant version of pneumonia.
It’s often a one-way ticket to plant heaven and trust me, you don’t want to go there.
Always check the soil before you water. If it’s still damp, hold off. Your plant will thank you for it!
Overwatering is one of the biggest problems with low light plants. You may also want to read our guides on Indoor Plant Watering, Root Rot, and Yellow Leaves Indoors.
Using the Wrong Soil
So, you’ve got your new plant, and you’re ready to pot it. But wait, not so fast!
The soil you use can make or break your plant’s happiness. Different plants have different soil needs, and using the wrong type can lead to poor drainage and unhappy roots.
Always read up on what type of soil your specific plant prefers.
Coco Coir and Perlite is Recommended
Speaking of soil, let’s talk about a dynamic duo that can be a game-changer for your low-light plants: coco coir and perlite.
Coco coir is excellent for water retention while still providing good drainage.
Perlite, those little white balls you see in potting mix, helps aerate the soil.
Mixing these two can create a well-balanced soil that’s perfect for most low-light houseplants.
Ignoring Signs of Pests
Last but definitely not least, let’s talk bugs. Ignoring signs of pests like spider mites or aphids is like ignoring a leaky roof, it’ll only get worse.
Always inspect your plants when you water them. Look for discolored leaves, tiny webs, or a sticky substance on the surface.
If you spot any of these, it’s time to take action. There are plenty of natural remedies like neem oil that can help you get rid of these pesky invaders.
There you have it! Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to avoiding the common mistakes that can trip up even the most seasoned plant parents. Happy gardening!
Common Low Light Plant Problems and Solutions
Why Low Light Plants Turn Yellow
Yellow leaves are one of the most common problems with low light houseplants. In many cases, the issue is caused by overwatering combined with slow soil drying in darker rooms.
Low light conditions reduce how quickly plants use water, so constantly damp soil can stress the roots and lead to yellowing foliage. Always allow the soil to dry slightly before watering again.
For more common causes of yellow foliage, visit our guide to Yellow Leaves Indoors.
Leggy Growth in Dark Rooms
Plants growing in rooms with insufficient light often become leggy, stretched, or sparse. This happens when stems grow longer while searching for brighter light sources.
Moving plants closer to windows, rotating them regularly, or supplementing with LED grow lights can help produce fuller and more compact growth indoors.
Best Plants for Windowless Rooms
Very few houseplants can survive in completely windowless rooms long term without artificial lighting. Snake plants, ZZ plants, and pothos tolerate darker conditions better than many indoor plants, but they still need some form of light to grow.
If a room has no natural sunlight at all, adding an LED grow light is usually the best solution for maintaining healthy indoor plants.
Signs a Plant Needs More Light
Common signs that indoor plants need more light include slow growth, smaller leaves, pale foliage, leaning stems, and excessive stretching between leaves.
Some plants may also stop producing new growth entirely when lighting conditions are too dark for long periods.
Overwatering Low Light Plants
Overwatering is much more common in low light environments because soil dries more slowly indoors without strong sunlight or airflow.
Plants growing in darker rooms usually need less frequent watering than plants near bright windows. Containers with drainage holes and well-draining soil help reduce the risk of root rot.
Why Plants Stop Growing Indoors
Indoor plants may stop growing because of low light, compacted soil, cold temperatures, root crowding, or inconsistent watering habits.
Growth naturally slows during winter months, but healthy plants should usually resume growing once lighting and temperatures improve.
If your plants become stretched or sparse indoors, see our guides on Indoor Plant Lighting and Leggy Indoor Plants.
Low Light Houseplants FAQs
What are the best houseplants for low light?
Some of the best houseplants for low light include snake plants, ZZ plants, pothos, peace lilies, spider plants, Chinese evergreen, parlor palm, lucky bamboo, and cast iron plants.
Can houseplants survive in a room with no windows?
Most houseplants cannot survive long term in a completely windowless room without artificial light. If there is no natural light, use an LED grow light to keep plants healthy.
Do low light plants still need sunlight?
Yes. Low light plants tolerate dimmer rooms, but they still need some light for photosynthesis. Low light does not mean no light.
How often should you water low light houseplants?
Low light houseplants usually need less frequent watering because soil dries more slowly in darker rooms. Always check the soil before watering instead of following a fixed schedule.
Why are my low light plants turning yellow?
Yellow leaves are often caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil staying wet too long. Low light slows water use, which makes root problems more likely.
Which low light houseplants are safe for pets?
Spider plants, parlor palms, and cast iron plants are generally considered safer choices for homes with pets. Many other low light plants, including pothos, peace lilies, ZZ plants, and snake plants, can be toxic if chewed.
What is the easiest low light plant for beginners?
Snake plants and ZZ plants are two of the easiest low light houseplants for beginners because they tolerate missed waterings, lower humidity, and dimmer indoor conditions.
Best Houseplants for Low Light: Final Thoughts
Low light rooms do not have to limit your indoor gardening options. Many popular houseplants adapt surprisingly well to apartments, offices, bedrooms, bathrooms, and other indoor spaces with limited natural sunlight.
Snake plants, pothos, ZZ plants, peace lilies, spider plants, and other low light favorites can continue growing indoors with proper watering habits, well-draining soil, and occasional indirect light.
The most common mistakes with low light houseplants are overwatering, poor drainage, and expecting plants to grow quickly in very dark spaces. Paying attention to lighting conditions and watering carefully usually prevents most indoor plant problems.
Whether you are decorating a darker apartment corner or simply looking for easier indoor plants to manage, these low light houseplants can add long-lasting greenery and texture to your home.