Introduction
Indoor plants are an excellent way to bring life to any room, enhance air quality, and foster a sense of tranquility. However, finding suitable plants can often pose a challenge for those living in spaces with limited natural light. Fortunately, there is good news: many indoor plants can thrive in very low light conditions. These plants are not only adaptable but also resilient, and they can survive with minimal sunlight.
In this guide, we will explore 35 types of indoor plants that require very little light to flourish. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced plant enthusiast, you will find the perfect plant for your indoor space.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
One of the most well-known low-light indoor plants, the snake plant, also referred to as mother-in-law’s tongue, is nearly indestructible. Additionally, its tall, upright leaves make it a striking addition to any room.
Care Tips:
- Light: While it tolerates low light, it also adapts well to indirect light.
- Watering: It’s best to let the soil dry out between waterings.
- Temperature: Moreover, it prefers average room temperature.
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant thrives in neglectful conditions, which makes it an excellent choice for low-light environments. In addition, its glossy, waxy leaves and upright growth pattern add an elegant touch to any space.
Care Tips:
- Light: While it does well in low light, it grows faster with moderate light.
- Watering: Water sparingly—only when the soil is dry.
- Temperature: Furthermore, it prefers moderate indoor temperatures.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
A favorite among houseplant lovers, pothos is known for its trailing vines and ease of care. As a result, it’s perfect for areas with limited sunlight and can grow in low light with minimal effort.
Care Tips:
- Light: While it can grow in very low light, it may lose some of its vibrant coloring.
- Watering: Be sure to let the soil dry out before watering.
- Temperature: Additionally, it thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 85°F.
4. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
True to its name, the cast iron plant can withstand nearly anything, including low light, neglect, and temperature fluctuations. Consequently, it’s an excellent choice for rooms with minimal natural light.
Care Tips:
- Light: It thrives in low light and can handle a bit of direct sunlight.
- Watering: Be sure to let the soil dry out between waterings.
- Temperature: Moreover, it prefers mild temperatures.
5.Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The peace lily is a beautiful, air-purifying plant that thrives in low-light conditions. In addition, it is known for its striking white blooms and shiny green leaves, making it an excellent option for improving indoor air quality.
Care Tips:
- Light: It grows best in low to medium light.
- Watering: Ensure that the soil remains evenly moist.
- Temperature: Furthermore, it prefers temperatures between 65°F and 80°F.
6. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
This small, compact palm is an excellent choice for low-light spaces. Moreover, the parlor palm is tolerant of neglect and doesn’t require much attention.
Care Tips:
- Light: It is ideal for low light and will also tolerate indirect sunlight.
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Temperature: Additionally, it prefers average room temperature.
7. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese evergreen plants are incredibly versatile and can tolerate low light as well as a variety of temperatures. Additionally, their beautiful, patterned leaves come in shades of green, silver, and red.
Care Tips:
- Light: It thrives in low to medium light but tolerates low-light conditions exceptionally well.
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Temperature: Furthermore, it prefers warm, humid environments.
8. Dracaena (Dracaena spp.)
Dracaena plants are perfect for low-light areas. In addition, their long, narrow leaves grow in attractive clusters, and the plant’s resilience makes it easy to care for.
Care Tips:
- Light: It thrives in low to medium light, although indirect light is preferred.
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Temperature: Moreover, it prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F.
9. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
With its arching green leaves and occasional white flowers, the spider plant is an excellent choice for low-light rooms. Furthermore, it’s an easy-to-grow plant that adds a touch of greenery to any space.
Care Tips:
- Light: While it prefers indirect light, it will tolerate low light.
- Watering: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Temperature: Additionally, it thrives in moderate temperatures.
10. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English ivy is an adaptable vine that grows well in low-light conditions. It’s an excellent choice for hanging baskets or training along trellises.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Can thrive in low-light spaces but prefers indirect sunlight.
- Watering: Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Temperature: Prefers cool to moderate temperatures.
11. Dracaena Fragrans (Corn Plant)
Dracaena Fragrans, also known as the corn plant, has broad, shiny green leaves with yellow streaks. It grows well in low light and is a low-maintenance option for interior décor.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Tolerates low light but prefers indirect sunlight.
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 65°F and 75°F.
12. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
Although aloe vera is typically known for its love of sunlight, it can thrive in low-light conditions as well. This succulent is known for its healing properties and striking appearance.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Can grow in low light, but it prefers bright, indirect light.
- Watering: Water sparingly; let the soil dry completely between waterings.
- Temperature: Thrives in warmer temperatures (60°F to 80°F).
13. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
The rubber plant is a great option for spaces with minimal light. Its large, glossy leaves make it a focal point in any room.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Does well in low to medium light but prefers bright, indirect light.
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Temperature: Prefers warm, humid environments.
14. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston ferns are known for their lush, feathery foliage. These plants can tolerate low light and thrive in higher humidity levels.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Does well in low light but prefers indirect light.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist.
- Temperature: Prefers cooler temperatures (60°F to 75°F).
15. Calathea (Calathea spp.)
Known for their stunning patterned leaves, Calatheas thrive in low-light environments. These plants add a tropical touch to any space with their bold colors and unique leaf patterns.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Thrives in low to medium light but avoids direct sunlight.
- Watering: Keep the soil slightly moist, but not soggy.
- Temperature: Prefers warm and humid conditions.
16. Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)
Peperomia plants are compact, low-maintenance plants that do well in low light. Their colorful and variegated leaves bring personality to any room.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers low to medium light but can tolerate low-light environments.
- Watering: Let the soil dry out between waterings.
- Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures.
17. Agave (Agave spp.)
Agave is a resilient succulent that thrives in dry conditions. While it loves sunlight, it can tolerate low-light conditions, especially in indoor environments.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can grow in low light.
- Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
- Temperature: Thrives in warm temperatures.
18. Cactus (Cactaceae)
Many types of cacti are perfect for low-light conditions, especially those grown indoors. With minimal watering requirements, they’re an ideal choice for beginners.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low-light conditions.
- Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Temperature: Prefers warmer temperatures (65°F to 80°F).
19. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
Although fiddle leaf figs typically prefer brighter spaces, they can adapt to low-light conditions, especially in homes with indirect light. Their large, sculptural leaves make a bold statement in any room.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can adapt to low light.
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Temperature: Prefers warmer temperatures.
20. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Lavender is typically associated with sunlight, but it can still tolerate lower light indoors. It offers aromatic flowers and a soothing fragrance to any room.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers bright light but can adapt to low light.
- Watering: Water when the soil is dry.
- Temperature: Prefers warm, dry conditions.
21. Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis)
Moth orchids are one of the most popular indoor orchids, and they thrive in low-light environments. With their elegant flowers and easy-care nature, they can brighten up any room.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers low to medium light. Avoid direct sunlight.
- Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Temperature: Best in warm conditions, ideally between 65°F and 75°F.
22. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
The bamboo palm is a graceful plant with long, feathery fronds that grow well in low-light spaces. It’s also known for its air-purifying properties, making it a great choice for home or office.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Thrives in low to medium light.
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Temperature: Prefers average indoor temperatures around 65°F to 75°F.
23. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
A popular choice for low-light areas, the heartleaf philodendron features beautiful, glossy, heart-shaped leaves. It’s a versatile and hardy plant that grows well in both pots and hanging baskets.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Grows best in low light but can tolerate medium light.
- Watering: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering.
- Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 80°F.
24. Pilea (Pilea peperomioides)
Known for its distinctive round leaves, the Chinese money plant (Pilea) adds an eye-catching touch to any low-light space. It’s easy to propagate and care for, making it a favorite among plant lovers.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers low to moderate indirect light.
- Watering: Let the soil dry out between waterings.
- Temperature: Prefers temperatures around 65°F to 75°F.
25. Coleus (Solenostemon scutellarioides)
Although coleus typically thrives in moderate light, it can adapt well to low-light conditions indoors. With its colorful foliage in a variety of shapes, it adds vibrant color to any room.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Tolerates low light, but colors may dull in darker conditions.
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
- Temperature: Prefers warm environments around 60°F to 75°F.
26. Dracaena Marginata (Dragon Tree)
The dragon tree is an easy-to-care-for plant with slender, arching leaves. Its striking appearance and low maintenance make it a great option for dimly lit spaces.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Tolerates low light but grows best in medium to indirect light.
- Watering: Let the soil dry out between waterings.
- Temperature: Prefers average room temperatures, 60°F to 75°F.
27. Ficus Benjamina (Weeping Fig)
Ficus benjamina, or the weeping fig, is a graceful tree-like plant with glossy, dark green leaves. It’s an excellent choice for areas with less light, provided it receives indirect lighting.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Tolerates low to medium light.
- Watering: Keep the soil slightly moist, but avoid overwatering.
- Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F.
28. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Lucky bamboo, often found in water-filled containers, is a popular plant in low-light environments. Despite its name, it’s not a true bamboo but a variety of dracaena.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers indirect light but can tolerate low-light conditions.
- Watering: If grown in water, change the water every two weeks.
- Temperature: Best in temperatures between 65°F and 90°F.
29. Cress (Lepidium sativum)
Often grown for its culinary benefits, cress is an easy-to-grow plant that does well in low-light conditions. It grows quickly and can be harvested in just a few weeks.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Can thrive in low light but grows faster with more light.
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist.
- Temperature: Prefers cool temperatures, around 60°F to 75°F.
30. Nerve Plant (Fittonia)
Fittonia, also known as nerve plant, is a small, low-growing plant known for its striking, veined leaves. It thrives in low light and adds texture and color to any room.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Thrives in low to moderate indirect light.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging.
- Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F.
31. Bitter Cress (Cardamine hirsuta)
Bittercress is a hardy, small herb that grows well in low-light conditions. It is typically grown in containers and adds a delicate green touch to indoor spaces.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants:Care Tips:
- Light: Grows well in low light.
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist.
- Temperature: Thrives in cooler temperatures.
32. Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe spp.)
Kalanchoe is a succulent plant that thrives in low-light conditions. Its fleshy leaves store water, so it requires less frequent watering.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light.
- Watering: Water when the soil has dried out.
- Temperature: Prefers warm indoor temperatures, around 65°F to 75°F.
33. String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
String of pearls is a succulent plant with trailing vines and unique, bead-like leaves. This plant can tolerate low light and dry conditions, making it an ideal choice for indoor spaces.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Tolerates low light but thrives in bright, indirect light.
- Watering: Water only when the soil is completely dry.
- Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F.
34. African Violet (Saintpaulia)
African violets are small, flowering plants that thrive in low-light conditions. They produce colorful flowers year-round and do well in indoor spaces with indirect light.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers low to medium indirect light.
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid water on the leaves.
- Temperature: Prefers warmer indoor temperatures, around 65°F to 75°F.
35. Maranta (Maranta leuconeura)
Also known as the prayer plant, maranta is a low-growing plant with striking foliage. It’s an excellent choice for low-light environments, and its unique leaf movements make it a fun plant to grow.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Care Tips:
- Light: Thrives in low light but prefers indirect light.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, not soggy.
- Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F.
Very Low Light Indoor Plants: Conclusion
Numerous indoor plants can flourish in very low-light conditions, bringing beauty and a touch of nature even to the darkest corners of your home. Whether you favor a resilient, low-maintenance plant such as the snake plant or a vibrant, flowering beauty like the moth orchid, there is a plant suited for every indoor space.
By carefully choosing plants that align with your specific environment and routine, you can create a lush, green, and lively atmosphere in your home or office, regardless of the amount of natural light available. Additionally, following the care tips for each plant will help ensure their healthy growth and long-lasting beauty in your indoor garden. Therefore, with the right selection and attention, you can enjoy a thriving indoor oasis even in low-light conditions.