List of Houseplants for Low Light

Having plants nearby is good for the soul, but not everyone has the time or space to dedicate to a garden—or lives in a climate conducive to gardening. Growing plants indoors can be tricky, though, because they need the perfect amount of space, water, and light to thrive.

If you’re looking for an indoor plant that doesn’t require a lot of sunlight to spruce up dim areas of your home or office, keep these eight low-light lovelies in mind.

Bamboo

Bamboo makes a striking indoor plant that brightens up any space. It’s often sold or displayed in water alone, and it can flourish that way as long as the water is replaced every week. Bamboo can also be potted in soil, and in that case it needs to be kept moist, but not soggy.

Ferns

The delicate, leafy fern is one of the oldest plants in the world, and they grow in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. While not all species of ferns can tolerate low light, certain types, such as button, autumn, rabbit’s foot, and maidenhair, do well with minimal light. Ferns require moist soil and like to be misted.

Ivy

English ivy is a beautiful plant with long, trailing vines that come in a wide range of shapes and colors. They grow quite well in low light and, like ferns, love to be misted.

Moth Orchid

Moth orchids are notoriously stubborn plants, but with the right care and attention, they make a beautiful addition to any space. These beauties favor low light and humidity, so they’re well suited for dressing up a bathroom. Orchids usually grow on mossy ground and only need water when the top inch of soil in their container is dry.

Parlor Palm

The parlor palm is a dramatic addition to any room—it can grow to stand up to four feet tall. The plant is simple to care for, as it does not require a lot of light or water. Only water the parlor palm when the soil is dry.

Pothos

Pothos is a wonderfully low-maintenance species perfect for those just beginning to cultivate houseplants. It does well in low light, and the soil should be allowed to dry in between waterings. Its glossy vines like to tumble away from the pot, so putting the pothos in a hanging basket is an eye-catching way to accent a room.

Snake Plant

The snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, is also an excellent choice for a beginner’s indoor garden. The broad green and yellow leaves grow upright and require little water and light. This plant serves more than just an aesthetic purpose; the snake plant is known to improve air quality.

ZZ Plant

A native of Africa, the ZZ plant is designed to thrive in drought-like conditions and with little to no light. These qualities make it an ideal selection to cheer up your office or a dim corner of your home.

It’s not difficult to grow beautiful plants in your home or office, as long as you know what to look for. There are many low-maintenance plants that thrive on low light and minimal watering, so don’t feel restricted by your environment. With all the available choices suited for low-light conditions, you’re free with a little know-how to select the ones you like the best.

Learn More:

Caring for Potted Plants

These Houseplants Studied by NASA Clean The Air In Your Home

5 Low Light Houseplant Ideas

Better Homes and Gardens, Gardenista, HGTV, Sunset, The Spruce

Author Saffyre Falkenberg began gardening with her grandmother as a child in Southern California. She continues to keep plants in her apartment in Texas, and has a special love for succulents.

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