9 Best Indoor Plants for Low Light Spaces

I used to think that I couldn’t grow anything because my home doesn’t get much sunlight. Many of my rooms stay quite dim, even during the middle of the day.

But I discovered that some plants actually prefer those quiet, shady corners. You don’t need giant windows to bring nature inside. Here are nine of my favorite plants that will stay green and happy even in low light.

Snake Plant: The Ultimate Low-Light Survivor

I always recommend the Snake Plant to anyone who thinks they have a black thumb. It is incredibly tough and does not mind being in a dark corner for a long time. Its tall, stiff leaves look great in modern spaces. I love how it just keeps growing quietly without needing much attention from me at all.

• Only water it when the soil is completely dry.
• It helps clean the air while you sleep.
• Great for bedrooms or hallways with no windows.

ZZ Plant: Glossy Leaves With Minimal Maintenance

The ZZ plant is a true star for dim rooms. Its leaves are so shiny that people often ask me if it is real. It stores water in its thick stems, so it is very forgiving if you forget to water it for a few weeks. It brings a fresh, polished look to any quiet spot.

• Keep it away from direct sun to avoid burning the leaves.
• It grows well even under office fluorescent lights.
• Very slow-growing, so it stays in its pot for a long time.

Pothos: Fast-Growing Vines for Dim Spaces

Pothos is the plant that first made me feel like a successful gardener. Even in low light, it continues to grow long, beautiful vines. I like to let mine trail down from a high shelf where the light is soft. It is very easy to share with friends by taking small cuttings.

• Yellow leaves usually mean you are watering it too much.
• It is very easy to grow in just a jar of water.
• Works perfectly on top of a fridge or a tall cabinet.

Peace Lily: Elegant Blooms in Low Light

It is rare to find a plant that flowers without much sun, but the Peace Lily is special. I love the way the white blooms stand out against the dark green leaves. It is also a very dramatic plant. If it gets too thirsty, the leaves will droop to let you know exactly what it needs.

• Keep the soil slightly moist most of the time.
• Wipe the large leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust.
• It prefers a spot with consistent, warm temperatures.

Cast Iron Plant: Nearly Impossible to Kill

This plant got its name because it is as tough as metal. I have used it in the darkest corners of my home where nothing else would survive. It has dark, wide leaves that look very classic. It does not grow very fast, but it is extremely reliable and stays green all year.

• It can handle drafty areas or temperature changes.
• Avoid overwatering as it prefers to stay a bit dry.
• Perfect for entryways or corners behind furniture.

Chinese Evergreen: Colorful Foliage for Shady Rooms

Most low-light plants are just green, but the Chinese Evergreen often has beautiful patterns of silver or pink. I find that it adds a nice pop of color to a dull room. It is a very sturdy plant that handles low light and dry air much better than most tropical plants.

• Choose the darker green varieties for the lowest light.
• Keep it away from cold drafts in the winter.
• It stays compact, making it great for side tables.

Parlor Palm: A Classic Indoor Palm for Low Sunlight

If you want a tropical feeling without the bright sun, this is the palm for you. It has been a favorite for homes for a very long time because it is so easy to please. I like how the soft, feathery fronds add a bit of texture and movement to a still room.

• It likes a bit of extra humidity if your home is dry.
• Do not repot it too often as it has sensitive roots.
• Keep it in a spot with soft, indirect light for best results.

Philodendron: Easy-Care Greenery for Any Corner

Philodendrons are very similar to pothos but have heart-shaped leaves that look so charming. I have several of these scattered around my home. They are very flexible and can either climb up a pole or hang down. They are very patient plants that don’t mind a little bit of neglect.

• They grow faster if they get just a little bit of light.
• The stems can be trimmed to keep the plant bushy.
• Water only when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Dracaena: Stylish Upright Growth for Low-Light Homes

Dracaenas look like tiny indoor trees with their woody stems and long, thin leaves. I use them when I need something tall to fill a corner. They come in many different colors, and they are great at adding a bit of height to a collection of shorter plants on the floor.

• Be careful not to overwater, as the roots can rot easily.
• Brown tips on the leaves usually mean the air is too dry.
• They are great for filling empty corners in a living room.

Tips for Success in the Dark

General Advice for Low-Light Care

Even though these plants love the shade, they still have basic needs to stay healthy. I have learned that the biggest mistake is giving them too much love in the form of water. Since they aren’t in the sun, they don’t use water very fast, so you have to be careful.

• Always check the soil with your finger before adding water.
• Rotate your plants every month so they don’t lean toward the light.
• Clean the leaves often so they can soak up whatever light is available.