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Low-Light Indoor Plants Guide
| Plant | Light (fc) | Watering | Growth Rate | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snake Plant | < 50 | Low | Slow | Air purifying, pet caution |
| Pothos | 50-100 | Low-Mod | Fast | Trailing, climbing |
| Philodendron | 50-100 | Mod | Fast | Large leaves, trailing |
| ZZ Plant | < 50 | Low | Slow | Glossy leaves, drought-tolerant |
| Fern | 100-250 | High | Mod-Fast | Delicate, humidity-loving |
| Peace Lily | 50-100 | Mod | Mod | Flowers, wilts when thirsty |
| Cast Iron Plant | < 50 | Low | Slow | Extremely durable |
| Monstera | 100-200 | Mod | Mod | Large leaves, climbing |
💡 Light Levels Explained
Foot-candles (fc): Measure of light intensity
• Very Low (< 50 fc): 5-6 feet from window or artificial light
• Low (50-100 fc): 3-6 feet from bright window
• Medium-Low (100-250 fc): Near window or bright indoor space
• Medium (250-500 fc): Bright window without direct sun
🏆 Best Very Low-Light Plants
1. Snake Plant - Extreme low light, minimal water
2. ZZ Plant - Glossy, beautiful, very hardy
3. Pothos - Trailing, forgiving, fast growth
4. Philodendron - Large leaves, climbing
5. Cast Iron Plant - Named for durability
Low-Light Plant Care Guide
💧 Watering Tips
✓ Check soil before watering: Stick finger 1-2" deep
✓ If dry = water; if moist = wait
✓ Low-light plants need less water: Growth is slower
✓ Use room-temperature water
✓ Ensure drainage holes to prevent root rot
⚠️ Overwatering is the #1 killer of low-light plants
🌱 Soil & Drainage
• Standard potting mix: Good for most plants
• Succulent mix: For snake plant, ZZ plant (drains fast)
• Humidity mix: For ferns, philodendrons (retains moisture)
• Repot every 1-2 years in growing season
• Fresh soil = more nutrients
💡 Artificial Light Options
• LED grow lights: Energy-efficient, low heat (best option)
• Hours needed: 12-16 hours/day for low-light plants
• Distance: 6-12 inches above plants
• Cost: $30-150 depending on size/quality
• Brands: Barrina, Relassy, VIVOSUN
🍽️ Fertilizing Guidelines
• Growing season (spring/summer): Fertilize every 2-4 weeks
• Dormancy (fall/winter): Reduce or stop fertilizing
• Low-light plants: Grow slower, need less fertilizer
• Liquid fertilizer: Dilute to half strength for safety
• Signs of over-fertilizing: Brown tips, salt buildup on soil
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
• Ideal temp: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
• Humidity: 30-50% is good for most plants
• Ferns prefer: 50-80% humidity
• Avoid: Cold drafts, heating vents, AC
• Mist leaves if humidity is low (except succulents)
⚠️ Common Problems & Solutions
Yellow leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage
Brown tips: Low humidity or fluoride in water
Slow growth: Normal for low light; reduce fertilizer
Leggy/sparse: Plant reaching for light; rotate or add grow light
Pest issues: Mealybugs, spider mites - isolate and treat
Don’t let the dark hold you back: The ultimate guide to low-light indoor plants.
Living in a space with limited natural light often feels like a sentence to a plant-free existence. You might walk past lush nursery displays, yearning for a jungle vibe in your home, only to resign yourself to artificial plastic ferns because your apartment faces a brick wall or your office window is just a sliver. But here is the good news: having a dim home doesn’t mean you can’t be a plant parent. In fact, some of the most stunning and resilient greenery actually thrives in the shadows.
There is a massive variety of indoor plants for low light that can transform your gloomy corners into vibrant green sanctuaries. Whether you are looking for indoor plants for low-light rooms in a basement apartment or trying to brighten up a cubicle, nature has a solution. The key lies not in forcing sun-worshipping succulents to survive in the dark, but in choosing species adapted to the forest floor—plants that naturally grow in the dappled shade of larger trees.
Before you buy, it is important to understand what “low light” actually means. To a plant, our eyes are deceptive. What looks like a bright living room to us might register as deep shade to a photosynthesising leaf. According to horticultural experts at Costa Farms, low light is typically measured at 100-200 foot-candles. If you can comfortably read a book in the space without turning on a lamp, you likely have enough light for low-light-tolerant plants. If you can’t, you might need supplemental grow lights. The most common options are LED and fluorescent grow lights, both of which are energy-efficient and provide the right spectrum for plant growth. Place the grow lights a few inches above your plants and keep them on for 12-16 hours per day to mimic natural daylight.
In this guide, we will explore the best indoor plants for low light, debunk common myths about air purification, and share expert care tips to keep your indoor garden thriving.
Why bother with indoor plants?
Beyond the obvious aesthetic upgrade, bringing indoor house plants for low light into your home offers significant benefits. Plants soften the harsh lines of modern architecture, reduce background noise, and have been linked to reduced stress levels and improved mood.
The truth about “clean air” plants
You have likely seen lists of the best indoor plants for clean air based on a famous 1989 NASA study. Many people search for the best indoor plants for low light and clean air, hoping to purify their home’s atmosphere. While it is true that plants can remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in sealed laboratory settings, the reality in a standard home is different.
According to the American Lung Association, earlier studies were conducted in small, airtight chambers. To replicate those air-purifying results in a real-world house (which has constant airflow from doors, windows, and HVAC systems), you would need between 10 and 1,000 plants per square meter. That is roughly 680 plants for a 1,500-square-foot home! So, while looking for the best indoor plants for low light and clean air is a noble goal, remember that ventilation is far more effective for air quality. For practical ways to keep your indoor air fresh, try opening your windows regularly to let in fresh air, using exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms, and considering an air purifier with a HEPA filter if you are concerned about allergens. Enjoy your plants for their beauty and mental health benefits rather than relying on them as air purifiers.
Top 10 indoor plants for low light
We have curated a list of the top 10 indoor plants that are tough, beautiful, and perfect for dimmer environments. Whether you need tall indoor plants for low light to fill a corner or indoor hanging plants for low light to drape from a shelf, there is something here for you. For those with curious cats or dogs, we have also indicated which plants are generally considered pet-safe, and suggested alternatives where needed, so you can create a lush indoor garden that is safe for every member of your household.
1. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
If you are looking for the absolute best indoor plants for low light, the ZZ plant is a top contender. It is virtually indestructible. Its waxy, rhizomatous roots store water, allowing it to survive for weeks of neglect.
- Best for: The indoor plants for the low-light office category. It tolerates fluorescent lights and infrequent watering perfectly.
- Variety to try: The ‘Raven’ ZZ plant has stunning dark purple-black leaves that look incredible in modern spaces.
2. Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata)
Formerly known as Sansevieria, the Snake Plant is an architectural marvel. It is one of the good indoor plants for low light because it grows vertically, making it perfect for narrow spaces.
- Best for: Indoor plants for living room corners or bedrooms.
- Care note: It is extremely drought-tolerant. Water only when the soil is completely bone dry.
3. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
True to its name, this plant is as tough as cast iron. It was a favourite in Victorian-era homes because it could survive the fumes of gas lamps and poor ventilation. It is one of the best indoor plants for low light. Australian and UK gardeners recommend it because it handles temperature fluctuations well.
- Best for: Cool hallways or entryways with drafts.
4. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Looking for indoor trailing plants for low light? The Pothos, or Devil’s Ivy, is a classic. It grows fast and can be trained to climb walls or trail down from bookshelves.
- Best for: High shelves or hanging baskets.
- Care note: While it survives low light, its variegation (the white or yellow patterns) may fade if it’s too dark.
5. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
If you want indoor flowering plants for low light, the Peace Lily is your best bet. It produces elegant white spathes even in shaded spots. It’s also quite communicative—its leaves will droop dramatically when it’s thirsty and perk up within hours of watering.
- Best for: Indoor plants for low-light bathroom settings. They love the humidity from your shower.
6. Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen)
For those seeking colour without bright sun, Aglaonema offers leaves splashed with red, pink, silver, and yellow. It is one of the best indoor plants for bedroom decor because of its soft, lush foliage.
- Best for: Adding a pop of colour to a monochrome room.
7. Heart-leaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
Similar to Pothos but with heart-shaped, matte leaves, this is another excellent choice for indoor hanging plants for low light. It is incredibly forgiving and adds a touch of romance to a room.
- Best for: Great indoor plants for low-light beginner gardeners.
8. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
If you want indoor tree plants for low light, the Parlour Palm gives you that tropical height without needing a greenhouse. It grows slowly but can eventually reach a few feet tall, making it a great large indoor plant for a low-light option that won’t overwhelm a small room.
- Best for: A touch of Victorian elegance in a study or lounge.
9. Dracaena Massangeana (Corn Plant)
For a tall indoor plant for a low-light statement piece, the Corn Plant is ideal. It features thick woody canes topped with strap-like leaves. It looks like a small tree and draws the eye upward.
- Best for: Big indoor plants with low light requirements for offices or empty living room corners.
10. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Often sold as a water-grown plant, Lucky Bamboo is actually a Dracaena. It is fantastic for indoor plants for low-light corners on desks or countertops where space is tight.
- Best for: Gifts and Feng Shui arrangements.
Navigating specific needs by room
Different rooms in your house have different microclimates. Here is how to match the plant to the place.
The humid bathroom
Indoor plants for a low-light bathroom need to tolerate high humidity and temperature spikes. Ferns like the Maidenhair Fern or Boston Fern love moisture, but they can be finicky. For a safer bet, stick with the Peace Lily or Pothos, which enjoy the steam but won’t die if you miss a misting.
The dark office
When searching for indoor plants for low-light office environments, avoid anything that drops leaves or needs daily attention. The ZZ Plant and Snake Plant are kings here. They don’t mind the dry air from air conditioning or the weekends without water.
The cozy bedroom
The best indoor plants for bedroom relaxation are those with softer shapes. A trailing Aglaonema or Heart-leaf Philodendron on a high shelf can make the room feel organic and restful.
Low light indoor plants: Plants for dark rooms
Dark rooms can still be transformed into lush, inviting spaces with the right low-light indoor plants. The Cast Iron Plant is a perfect choice, thriving in areas with very minimal natural light and requiring little care. Another reliable option is the Pothos, which not only tolerates low light but also adds a touch of greenery with its trailing vines. For a more structured look, the Peace Lily is an excellent choice, offering both elegance and air-purifying benefits. These hardy plants make it easy to green up even the darkest corners of your home or workspace.
Low-Light Houseplants For Basement
Decorating a basement with low-light houseplants is a great way to bring life and warmth to an often-dim space. Snake Plants are an ideal choice, as they thrive in low-light environments and require minimal maintenance. Their upright, architectural leaves make them a striking feature in any room. Another excellent option is the ZZ Plant, known for its glossy, dark green leaves and impressive resilience even in the darkest corners. Additionally, the Chinese Evergreen is a fantastic choice for adding colour to a basement, with some varieties showcasing patterned or variegated foliage. These robust plants create a vibrant, fresh atmosphere, transforming basements into inviting living spaces.
Best indoor plants for clean air
| Spider Plant | Long, arching leaves; easy to grow | Removes carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and toxins |
| Peace Lily | Glossy leaves, white flowers | Filters ammonia, benzene, formaldehyde, and more |
| Snake Plant | Upright, sword-like leaves | Releases oxygen at night, removes toxins |
| Boston Fern | Feathery foliage, humidity-loving | Great for increasing air moisture and removing VOCs |
| Aloe Vera | Succulent with fleshy leaves | Cleans air of formaldehyde and benzene; medicinal use |
| Areca Palm | Elegant fronds, low maintenance | Moisturizes the air and removes toxins |
Best indoor plants for insect repellent
| Lavender | Fragrant purple flowers, soothing scent | Naturally repels mosquitoes, flies, and moths |
| Basil | Green, aromatic herb | Repels mosquitoes and houseflies |
| Peppermint | Freshly scented leaves | Effective against spiders, ants, and mosquitoes |
| Lemongrass | Tall, aromatic grass | Contains citronella, a natural mosquito repellent |
| Chrysanthemums | Vibrant, colorful flowers | Produces pyrethrin, which deters ants, fleas, and roaches |
| Rosemary | Woody herb with needle-like leaves | Repels mosquitoes and other flying insects |
Best indoor plants for reducing bad odours:
| Snake Plant | Hardy plant with upright leaves | Absorbs toxins and reduces bad odors |
| Peace Lily | Elegant, white flowering plant | Purifies the air and eliminates musty smells |
| English Ivy | Trailing, easy-to-care-for vine | Removes airborne toxins and odors |
| Bamboo Palm | Tropical plant with delicate fronds | Improves air quality and neutralizes bad smells |
| Aloe Vera | Succulent plant with thick leaves | Absorbs odors and promotes cleaner air |
Regional considerations: Australia, NZ, and the UK
Gardening advice often varies by region, but low-light care is surprisingly universal indoors—availability varies.
- Australia/NZ: If you are looking for indoor plants for low light, consider native species that may be adapted to local conditions. The Kentia Palm is native to Lord Howe Island (Australia) and is one of the world’s best low-light indoor palms.
- UK: For those seeking indoor plants for low-light conditions, the Cast Iron Plant and English Ivy (Hedera helix) are reliable staples that cope well with cooler, draftier British homes.
Can I use these outdoors?
A common query is about indoor plants for low-light outdoor areas, such as shaded patios or covered verandas. Many of the plants listed above, like the Snake Plant and Cast Iron Plant, are surprisingly versatile. In warmer climates, they make excellent indoor plants for low-light outdoor transitions, thriving in shaded pots on a deck. However, keep them out of direct midday sun, which will scorch their leaves, and bring them inside if temperatures drop near freezing.
Light Intensity | Indirect, shaded light | Direct sunlight or bright indirect light |
Plant Examples | Snake Plant, Cast Iron Plant, Pothos | Succulents, Cacti, Fiddle Leaf Fig |
Location | Shaded patios, covered verandas, indoors | Open balconies, sunny windows, outdoor gardens |
Care Requirements | Water moderately, avoid overwatering | Water more frequently, but allow drainage |
Growth Rate | Generally slower | Often faster due to increased photosynthesis |
Essential care tips for the light-deprived
Growing indoor best house plants for low light requires a shift in how you care for them compared to sun-loving plants.
1. Water less, not more
This is the golden rule. In low light, photosynthesis slows, so the plant drinks less water. If you water a low-light plant as often as you water a sunny windowsill plant, you will rot its roots. Always check the soil; if it is still damp, walk away. Watch for signs of watering problems: overwatered plants may have yellowing leaves, mushy stems, or a musty smell from the soil. Underwatered plants often wilt, and their soil feels dry to the touch. Learning to recognize these symptoms will help you adjust your care and keep your plants healthy.
2. Dust your leaves
In dim conditions, every photon of light counts. Dust on leaves acts like a curtain, blocking light from reaching the plant’s cells. Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth every few weeks. This is especially important for large indoor plants in low light with broad leaves, like the Rubber Plant or Cast Iron Plant.
3. Watch the temperature
Indoor plants in low-light conditions often suffer from cold drafts or heating vents. RHS advice suggests keeping plants like Aglaonema away from temperatures below 60°F (15°C). Fluctuating temperatures can stress plants just as much as poor light.
4. Fertilise sparingly
Because growth is slower in low light, plants need less food. Fertilise only during the growing season (spring and summer), and dilute the fertiliser to half-strength.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Overpotting: Putting a small, low-light plant in a massive pot can lead to waterlogging. The excess soil holds too much water for the small root system to drink. To help your plant thrive, choose a pot that is only one to two inches wider in diameter than the plant’s existing root ball or starter pot. This ensures the roots have just enough room to grow without being overwhelmed by too much soil.
- Ignoring pests: Pests like mealybugs and spider mites can still attack in the dark. Check the undersides of leaves regularly.
- Misjudging “No Light”: No plant can survive in pitch blackness. If you have a room with no windows (like an internal bathroom), you must use artificial grow lights or rotate your plants to a brighter spot every few weeks.
Related FAQs
- Can low-light plants survive without any light at all?
No, even low-light plants need some form of light to photosynthesize and thrive. If natural light is unavailable, consider using artificial grow lights. - How often should I water low-light plants?
Low-light plants typically require less water because they grow more slowly in lower light. Always check the soil moisture before watering to avoid overwatering. - What are some common low-light plants?
Popular low-light plants include snake plants, pothos, ZZ plants, and peace lilies. These plants are hardy and adapt well to dim conditions. - How do I prevent pests on indoor plants?
Regularly inspect your plants, especially the undersides of the leaves, and maintain good airflow around them. Use natural pest control methods, such as neem oil, if an infestation occurs. - Do low-light plants grow slower than those in bright light?
Yes, plants in lower-light conditions generally grow more slowly because they receive less energy for photosynthesis. Ensure adequate care to keep them healthy despite reduced growth rates. This may include adjusting watering and fertilising schedules. Additionally, consider supplementing with artificial grow lights to provide more light for the plants. - Can I use regular soil for indoor plants?
- It is not recommended to use regular garden soil for indoor plants as it may contain pests, diseases, and weeds that could harm your plant. Instead, opt for a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for indoor plants. You can also make your own potting mix by combining compost, perlite or vermiculite, and peat moss.
- How often should I water my indoor plants?
- The frequency of watering depends on various factors such as the type of plant, its size, and the environment it is placed in. Generally, most indoor plants require watering once or twice a week. However, it is important to check the soil moisture before watering, as overwatering can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- What are some common pests and diseases that affect indoor plants?
- Some common pests that can attack indoor plants include aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and fungus gnats. These pests feed on plant sap and can cause damage if left untreated. Common diseases in indoor plants include powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot diseases.
- How can I prevent or treat pests and diseases in my indoor plants?
- Prevention is key to controlling pests and diseases in indoor plants. Regularly inspecting your plants for signs of pests or disease can help you catch them early. You can also use natural methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap to control pests. For diseases, avoid overwatering, ensure adequate air circulation, and remove any infected leaves or plant parts.
- Are there any benefits to having indoor plants?
- Absolutely! Indoor plants not only add aesthetic value to a space but also offer several health benefits. Having greenery indoors has been shown to reduce stress, elevate mood, and create a sense of calm, making your living or working environment more inviting and restful. Houseplants also help raise humidity levels, which can ease dry skin and respiratory problems, especially in heated or air-conditioned rooms. Beyond this, tending to plants provides a sense of purpose and routine, offering a simple way to boost well-being every day.
Bring the green indoors.
Whether you are looking for the best hanging indoor plants for low light, best tall indoor plants for low light, or just a small friend for your desk, there is a plant that fits your space. Don’t let a lack of sun limit your creativity. By choosing the right indoor plants for low light and adjusting your care routine, you can cultivate a thriving indoor garden that brings life, colour, and joy to even the shadiest corners of your home.
Start small with a Snake Plant or Pothos, and before you know it, you will be scouring nurseries for the next great indoor plants for low light to add to your collection.