Are you a fan of having plants in your home, but find that it’s a chore to keep them alive in low light conditions? Don’t worry! There are many houseplants that can thrive even in the darkest of corners. These plants not only add beauty to your space but also have the ability to improve your mood, purify the air, and enhance productivity. However, it’s important to choose the right houseplants for low light environments.
In this article I’ll introduce you to some houseplants that can thrive with minimal sunlight. These plants are easy to take care of, but also hardy and will bring life and vibrancy to your home with their lush leaves and beautiful flowers. Whether you prefer a succulent, a larger fern, or something in between, I may have the perfect plant for you. So, grab your gardening gloves, and let’s dive into the world of low light houseplants!
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
One particular plant that stands out as resilient and adaptable for low light conditions is the Snake Plant, also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue. This plant has become quite trendy for the high-end luxury apartments here in Southern California (and they might be onto something, with our shoebox sized homes!). This particular plant has elongated leaves that resemble swords. These leaves are green in the middle with yellow along each edge, which adds a nice contrasting outline for each leaf. Snake plants can grow pretty tall, they can reach a height of about four feet tall.
The best part is that it doesn’t require much attention or care. I like to call this type of plant the “set-it and forget-it” kind. So, if you’re not thrilled about the idea of hovering over your plants, this might be the best choice for you. You’ll only need to water it (approximately) once a month and it will still thrive, even in low light conditions. Additionally, it has been said that it possesses air purifying qualities by filtering out harmful chemicals and releasing oxygen at night. This makes it an ideal bedroom plant as it can promote sleep and easier breathing.
Learn more about snake plants here! 1
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
If you’re searching for a houseplant that thrives in low light environments and demands very little upkeep then the ZZ plant might be worth considering. Its also known as Zamioculcas zamiifolia or Zanzibar gem. It has dark green feather like leaves and can grow up to four feet tall. The ZZ plant is a highly resilient plant that can survive in various lighting conditions ranging from bright indirect light to nearly complete darkness.
The ZZ plant also possesses thick underground stems that store water so you only have to water it once a month or maybe even less frequently. The ZZ plant is an option for individuals who lead busy lives and don’t have much time for plant maintenance or for beginners looking to start with a low maintenance plant. The ZZ plant is said to have an ability to purify the air by eliminating toxins and generating oxygen. Just be cautious. Keep it out of reach from pets and children as it can be toxic if ingested.
Learn more about the ZZ plant here! 2
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Another remarkable indoor plant suitable for low light conditions is the Pothos, commonly known as Devils Ivy. This tropical vine can easily adapt to lighting situations ranging from bright indirect sunlight to deep shade. Its attractive heart shaped leaves come in various shades of green, including solid green or variegated with white, yellow or silver patterns. It can grow up to 10 feet indoors and has long trailing stems that can be trained to climb or cascade gracefully. Hanging baskets are a great choice for the Pothos plant as it creates a lush green curtain effect when displayed this way. Alternatively, you can place it on a shelf or table to waterfall over the edge.
Not only is the Pothos plant aesthetically pleasing but it also requires minimal care and attention. Pothos plants don’t require a lot of watering and can withstand dry soil for some time. Just give it water when the surface of the soil feels dry to the touch. Additionally, it doesn’t demand a lot of fertilizer and can thrive in poor quality soil. Simply provide it with a balanced houseplant fertilizer every few months during its growing season. The Pothos plant is also said to be an air purifier as it removes toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air.
The pothos plant is a wonderful addition to any home, as it can brighten up any space with its vibrant foliage and graceful vines. It is also a great plant for beginners, as it is very forgiving and easy to propagate. You can simply cut a stem with a few leaves and place it in water or soil. It will soon grow roots and become a new plant. You can also share your pothos plant with your friends and family to spread the joy of gardening.
Learn more about Pothos plants here! 3
4. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Another wonderful houseplant for low light is the Chinese evergreen, or Aglaonema. This plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, where it grows in humid and shady forests. It has large, leathery leaves that come in various patterns and colors, from solid green to silver and red. The Chinese evergreen is not only a beautiful plant, but also a beneficial one. It can purify the air by removing toxins and producing oxygen. It can also adapt to different light environments, from bright indirect light to almost complete darkness.
The Chinese evergreen is very easy to care for, as it doesn’t need much water or fertilizer. You can water it once a week or when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. You can feed it with a balanced houseplant fertilizer every few months during the growing season. The Chinese evergreen is also resistant to pests and diseases, making it a hassle-free plant. The only thing you need to watch out for is to keep it away from pets and children, as it is toxic if ingested.
The Chinese evergreen is a versatile and attractive plant that can add life and color to any space. It is also a great plant for beginners, as it is very forgiving and easy to grow. You can choose from a wide range of varieties, each with its own unique leaf pattern and color. Whether you want a large or a small plant, a green or a red one, you can find a Chinese evergreen that suits your style and preference.
Learn more about Chinese Evergreen plants here! 4
5. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
If you’re in search of a houseplant that can adapt to conditions consider checking out the cast iron plant, also known as Aspidistra elatior. This resilient plant lives up to its name by thriving in low light environments ranging from indirect light to almost complete darkness. It can withstand irregular watering, dry soil and changes in temperature. With its dark green leaves that create a captivating contrast against lighter backgrounds the cast iron plant adds an elegant and sophisticated touch to any room. It’s ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance plant that can flourish with minimal care.
Learn more about Cast Iron Plants here! 5
6. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Another suitable houseplant for low light settings is the peace lily or Spathiphyllum. This tropical evergreen produces breathtaking flowers, that in my opinion resemble calla lilies. Its glossy dark green leaves beautifully complement the blooms. The peace lily not only enhances your space aesthetically but also offers benefits such as air purification by removing toxins like formaldehyde, benzene and ammonia. Additionally, it helps increase humidity levels and oxygen in your home.
Caring for the peace lily is hassle free as it doesn’t require very much watering or fertilization.
You’ll want to water the peace lily when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch or when you notice drooping. During the flowering season it’s best to feed it with a balanced houseplant fertilizer every few months. Bright indirect light is preferred by peace lilies. They can also tolerate low light conditions although fewer flowers may bloom in such environments. One great thing about peace lilies is that they’re resistant to pests and diseases making them hassle free plants. Just be cautious as they can be toxic if ingested so keep them out of reach from pets and children.
Peace lilies are elegant plants that bring life and beauty to any space. They’re perfect for beginners as they are forgiving and easy to care for. With a range of varieties available you can choose a peace lily that matches your style and preference.
Learn more about Peace Lily plants here! 6
7. Dracaena (Dracaena spp.)
The Dracaena plant, also known as the dragon tree is another choice for low light environments. It’s a shrub, with different varieties characterized by unique leaf shapes and colors.
You can discover Dracaena plants with leaves that are solid green, striped or spotted and they come in various shades of green, yellow, red or pink. The Dracaena is not only visually appealing but also offers benefits to the environment. It helps purify the air by eliminating substances like formaldehyde, benzene and xylene. Also, it can adapt well to various light conditions ranging from bright indirect light to even near darkness.
Taking care of a Dracaena plant is really quite easy since it doesn’t require much watering or fertilization. You can water it once a week. Whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During its growth season you can nourish it with a houseplant fertilizer every few months. The Dracaena thrives best in temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (16 to 27 Celsius) with humidity levels ranging from 60 to 80 percent. Additionally this resilient plant is highly resistant to pests and diseases making it hassle-free to maintain. Unfortunately they are prone to mealy bugs and scale insects. Also, it’s important to keep it from pets and children as ingesting parts of the plant can be toxic.
The Dracaena are visually appealing plants that brings life and vibrant color into any space. It’s a great choice for beginners as well since many of their varieties are forgiving and easy to cultivate.
Learn more about Dracaena plants here! 7
Conclusion
Selecting the right houseplants for low light conditions can have a significant impact on your living space. These plants can brighten up the area, purify the air, and uplift your mood. However, it’s important to take care of them by providing the proper amount of light, regular watering and ensuring proper drainage.
With these tips, you can turn your low-light space into a luscious green paradise. You have many options to choose from, such as the Snake Plant, ZZ Plant, Pothos, Chinese Evergreen, Cast Iron Plant, Peace Lily, or Dracaena. These plants are easy to grow, hard to kill, and beautiful to look at. They will surely thrive and bring life to your home, even in the darkest corners.
–Until next time, Keep Blooming!
Learn more from the sites referenced in this article: