32 Houseplants That Flourish in Low-Light Areas

All houseplants require a few essential factors for healthy growth, with sunlight being one of the most crucial. Sunlight provides plants with the energy they need to grow, sprout, and bloom. But what if your living space doesn’t receive much natural sunlight?

No need to worry: Every plant has unique requirements, and some varieties can thrive even in low-light environments—or in spaces with little to no natural light. Below, you’ll find 32 plants that do well in shaded rooms, based on expert recommendations.

What Exactly Qualifies as Low Light for Plants?

It's important to understand that all plants require some light. A completely dark basement differs greatly from a dimly lit living room. In low-light conditions, plants are typically located several feet away from a window that doesn't receive direct sunlight during the day, or perhaps there is no natural light at all in the room. While some plants can adapt to and grow in low-light settings, they may grow at a slower pace than if they had access to more sunlight.

1. Fernwood Mikado (Sansevieria 'Fernwood')

A smaller variety of the well-known snake plant, the fernwood mikado belongs to the dracaena genus, which is known for thriving with minimal care, according to Sabharwal.

While this plant can flourish quickly in brighter light, it also adapts well to low-light environments (similar to the snake plant). Keep your fernwood mikado on the drier side, as it has substantial root balls that store water to survive drought conditions, says Sabharwal.

Care Instructions

• Light: Bright, filtered light
• Soil: Sandy soil, like a cactus potting mix
• Water: Let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
• Size: Can grow up to 2 feet in height and width
• Harmful to pets

2. Peperomia Green (Peperomia Obtusifolia)

Peperomia obtusifolia, also known as the baby rubber plant, is a hardy member of the pepper family. These charming plants prefer bright, indirect light, but according to Sabharwal, they can also adapt to spaces with low, indirect light. Just be sure to avoid direct sunlight, as it can quickly dry out a peperomia.

An added perk? “These plants have semi-succulent traits, meaning they can store water in their thick stems or leaves, which helps them survive when moisture is scarce,” says Sabharwal.

Care Instructions

• Light: Medium to bright indirect light
• Soil: Loose, well-draining soil
• Water: Let the top two inches of soil dry out between waterings
• Size: Grows up to 1 foot tall
• Safe for pets

3. Silver Philodendron (Philodendron Hastatum)

Don’t be deceived by its lush, velvety foliage. The silver philodendron, also known as satin pothos, is quite easy to care for, says Steinkopf. These trailing plants can thrive in dimly lit spaces without direct sunlight, and they can go without water until the topsoil is completely dry.

Care Instructions

• Light: Indirect light
• Soil: Light, well-draining soil
• Water: Let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings
• Size: Can grow up to 15 feet tall
• Harmful to pets

4. Arrowhead Vine (Syngonium Podophyllum)

The arrowhead vine, which develops long stems as it matures, thrives in partial shade. “If you can find the green variety, it tolerates low light and will thrive in a north-facing window or in the middle of a room near a window,” says Steinkopf.

Due to its thinner leaves, the arrowhead vine prefers consistent moisture and doesn’t tolerate dry conditions. Consider placing your plant on a pebble tray to increase the natural humidity around it.

Care Instructions

• Light: Bright, indirect light
• Soil: Moist, well-draining soil
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist, but not soggy
• Size: Grows between 3 and 6 feet tall
• Harmful to pets

5. Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium Nidus)

Ferns generally do well in low-light conditions. "Mine are all placed near an east-facing window or a few feet away from one," Steinkopf explains. Bird's nest ferns are excellent for dim spots, along with other ferns like rabbit's foot fern that have a footed base.

Ferns often get a bad rap for being hard to care for, but Steinkopf believes they make wonderful houseplants as long as they’re kept moist. For added humidity, place them on pebble trays, and always water them before the soil becomes completely dry.

Care Instructions

• Light: Partial shade
• Soil: Loamy, well-draining soil
• Water: Water when the top inch of soil has dried out
• Size: Grows between 3 and 5 feet tall
• Safe for pets

6. Neon Pothos (Epipremnum Aureum 'Neon')

Unlike other pothos varieties, the neon pothos cannot handle direct sunlight, according to Sherlock. "They bring vibrant color to any plant collection, with their neon green leaves often showcasing dark green spots of variegation. Plus, they grow at a manageable pace and don’t get too large."

Let the soil dry out completely between waterings, as neon pothos are particularly susceptible to root rot (especially in low light conditions).

Care Instructions

• Light: Partial shade
• Soil: Loamy, well-draining soil
• Water: Water when the top two inches of soil are dry
• Size: Up to 8 inches tall and up to 40 feet wide
• Harmful to pets

7. Grape Ivy (Cissus Rhombifolia)

The grape ivy, also known as oak leaf ivy, gets its name from its resemblance to grapevines. This low-maintenance plant thrives in low-light conditions, making it an ideal choice for indoor spaces.

Ivy plants prefer not to dry out, so Steinkopf suggests keeping them consistently moist. With regular watering, your grape ivy can thrive and grow quickly. Consider training it on a trellis or obelisk to create a striking vertical display in your home.

Care Instructions

• Light: Medium to bright indirect light
• Soil: Well-draining, aerated soil
• Water: Water when the soil feels dry to the touch
• Size: 1 to 3 feet tall and wide
• Safe for pets

8. Calathea (Calathea Spp.)

Calatheas are known to thrive in low-light environments, according to Steinkopf, and their striking foliage is an added perk. However, these patterned beauties can be somewhat temperamental.

They are sensitive to fluoridated tap water, so Steinkopf recommends using bottled water to prevent brown tips, edges, and spots. Calatheas prefer to be kept moist and enjoy a humid environment, making them perfect for a dimly lit kitchen or bathroom. As Steinkopf mentions, 'The extra care is worth it, as these are truly stunning plants.'

Care Instructions

• Light: Filtered, indirect light
• Soil: Loamy, well-draining soil
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist and use bottled water
• Size: 1 to 2 feet tall and wide
• Non-toxic to pets

9. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum Comosum)

There's a reason why this plant is commonly found in office spaces—it can flourish in low-light conditions. The best part is how easy it is to propagate: Simply wait for tiny baby plants to sprout from the main plant, and place them in water until they establish roots.

Care Instructions

• Light: Indirect light
• Soil: Loamy, well-draining soil
• Water: Allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings
• Size: Grows up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide
• Non-toxic to pets

10. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra Elatior)

The cast iron plant lives up to its name by thriving in almost any light or soil condition, requiring little watering. However, it's best to keep it in low or indirect light to preserve the rich green color of its foliage.

Care Tips

• Light: Indirect light
• Soil: Well-draining soil
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings
• Size: Can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide
• Non-toxic to pets

11. Monstera Plant (Monstera Deliciosa)

The highly popular "Swiss cheese" plant may appear to require lots of sunlight, but in its natural habitat, monstera plants thrive beneath the rainforest canopy, preferring soft, indirect light. (If you live in zones 10 to 12, it's also a great choice for an outdoor plant.)

Care Tips

• Light: Filtered, indirect light
• Soil: Light, well-draining soil
• Water: Allow the top 1/3 inch of soil to dry between waterings
• Size: Grows up to 15 feet tall and 8 feet wide
• Toxic to pets

12. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena Sanderiana)

Lucky bamboo is not only ideal for low-light environments, but it can also grow without soil. Place it in a container with water and pebbles or simply in a water-filled vase.

Did you know? The number of lucky bamboo plants you choose can carry special meanings. For example, three plants together symbolize happiness, longevity, and wealth.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers indirect, filtered light
• Soil: Well-draining soil, or a container with water and pebbles
• Water: Change water weekly if using the pebble or vase method; always use distilled or spring water
• Size: Can grow up to 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide
• Toxic to pets

13. English Ivy (Hedera Helix)

English ivy flourishes in indirect natural light, although it can adapt to lower light conditions. It's also an excellent choice as a hanging plant if you're aiming to liven up a dim corner.

Care Tips

• Light: Bright indirect light
• Soil: Loamy, well-draining soil
• Water: Allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out before watering again
• Size: Grows up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide
• Not toxic to pets

14. Pilea (Pilea Peperomia)

Often referred to as the Chinese money plant due to its distinctive coin-shaped leaves, this easy-to-care-for plant can tolerate neglect, low light, and minimal watering, making it a perfect choice for beginner plant parents.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers indirect lighting
• Soil: Rich and well-draining soil
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings
• Size: Can reach up to 1 foot in height and width
• Non-toxic to pets

15. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.)

These easy-to-care-for plants (although not actual true lilies) are loved for their distinctive "spade-shaped" leaves and tall white blooms. They thrive in low-light environments, mimicking the conditions of their natural forest-floor habitats where they receive scattered sunlight. However, for those hoping to see flowers, a bit of direct sunlight is needed, in addition to maintaining moisture and humidity. Care Tips

• Light: Tolerates partial to full shade
• Soil: Rich, well-draining soil
• Water: Allow the soil to dry between waterings
• Size: Grows up to 3 feet tall and wide
• Toxic to pets

16. Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)

This Brazilian beauty can grow to impressive heights under the right conditions—up to 10 feet tall in its native environment! While it flourishes in tropical climates, it's also resilient to droughts, making it perfect for those who may forget to water occasionally. Just be sure to wear gloves when handling the leaves, as the sap can irritate the skin.

Care Tips

• Light: Tolerates partial to full shade
• Soil: Loamy, well-draining soil
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings
• Size: Grows around 3 feet tall and wide
• Toxic to pets

17. Polka Dot Begonia (Begonia maculata)

This eye-catching plant, the polka dot begonia, flourishes in humid conditions similar to its natural habitat, the Amazon rainforest. If your home tends to be on the dry side, try placing your planter on top of a dish filled with water and pebbles—this will help increase moisture around the plant.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers indirect light
• Soil: A well-draining, aerated potting mix
• Water: Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering
• Size: Can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide
• Toxic to pets

18. Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)

Money trees are a popular gift for housewarmings, believed to bring prosperity and good luck to any space. While it thrives in bright, indirect light, it can also adapt well to low-light environments. To encourage healthy, even growth, rotate your plant occasionally to maintain its rounded shape.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers indirect light
• Soil: Nutrient-rich, well-draining soil
• Water: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings
• Size: Typically reaches about 3 feet tall
• Not toxic to pets

19. Jewel Orchids (Ludisia discolor)

Jewel orchids are surprisingly simple to care for, especially when compared to traditional orchids. While they can bloom under ideal conditions, their stunning leaves are just as breathtaking as the flowers themselves.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers low light
• Soil: Loamy, well-draining potting mix
• Water: Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out between waterings
• Size: Can grow up to 12 inches tall and wide
• Not harmful to pets

20. ZZ Plant (Zanzibar Gem)

ZZ plants are well-suited for homes with minimal light. Native to East Africa, this tough plant is also capable of withstanding droughts.

Care Instructions

• Light: Prefers low light
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix
• Water: Allow the top 3 inches of soil to dry before watering again
• Size: Can grow up to 4 feet tall and wide
• Harmful to pets

21. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

The Chinese evergreen is ideal for those who tend to forget watering, as it thrives in slightly dry soil. Evergreens with lighter foliage need a bit more sunlight than their darker-leafed counterparts.

Care Instructions

• Light: Prefers indirect light
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix
• Water: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings
• Size: Can reach up to 3 feet tall and wide
• Harmful to pets

22. Alocasia Bambino

If you're looking to bring a tropical flair to a compact space, this plant is the perfect choice. The Alocasia bambino is derived from a species native to Southeast Asia. Be mindful that it is susceptible to spider mites, so it thrives in a humid environment. Consider placing it near a humidifier or in a bathroom.

Care Instructions

• Light: Prefers indirect light
• Soil: Well-draining, aerated potting mix
• Water: Allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings
• Size: Can grow up to 18 inches tall and wide
• Harmful to pets

23. Spiderwort (Tradescantia)

Spiderwort, also known as the inch plant, is popular for its beautiful cascading leaves, and naturally grows in clumps in woodland areas and open fields.

Care Instructions

• Light: Prefers indirect light
• Soil: Keep soil moist, but well-draining
• Water: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings
• Size: Can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide
• Harmful to pets

24. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)

This slow-growing plant is named for its unique behavior—its leaves remain flat during the day, then fold up like praying hands when night falls. It’s sensitive to dry periods, so it’s best for those who can remember to water regularly.

Care Instructions

• Light: Partial shade
• Soil: Moist, loamy, well-draining soil
• Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged
• Size: Grows up to 1 foot tall and wide
• Not toxic to pets

25. Gasteria

Although gasteria is classified as a succulent, it tolerates lower light levels better than most of its succulent relatives. While it thrives in bright light, it does not do well under direct sunlight and can survive in dimmer environments.

Care Tips

• Light: Partial shade
• Soil: Sandy, well-draining soil
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings
• Size: Grows up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide
• Not toxic to pets

26. African Violet (Streptocarpus sect. Saintpaulia)

Although it's not technically a true violet, the African violet is a popular houseplant that blooms throughout the year. With its small stature, delicate purple flowers, and soft leaves, it adds a touch of elegance to any indoor plant collection.

Care Tips

• Light: Moderate to bright indirect light
• Soil: Moist, well-draining potting mixes
• Water: Keep moist but avoid sogginess
• Size: Grows up to 1 foot tall and wide
• Not toxic to pets

27. Porcelainflower or Wax Plant (Hoya carnosa)

Wax plants are distinguished by their thick, fleshy leaves and their tendency to grow in a trailing, vining fashion, making them an excellent choice for hanging baskets.

Care Tips

• Light: Partial light
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix
• Water: Allow the soil to dry between waterings
• Size: Can grow up to 20 feet long
• Not toxic to pets

28. Anthurium

Anthurium, also known as laceleaf or flamingo plant, has the ability to bloom with vibrant red flowers when given enough sunlight. However, it will still thrive in partial light and will retain its striking green foliage.

Care Tips

• Light: Partial light
• Soil: Moist, well-draining potting mix
• Water: Keep soil moist, but avoid excess water
• Size: Grows up to 18 inches tall and 12 inches wide
• Toxic to pets

29. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

Parlor palms are a charming alternative to the larger, more conventional palm species. Interestingly, with proper care, this plant can thrive for several decades indoors!

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers indirect sunlight
• Soil: Requires a well-draining potting mix
• Water: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before rewatering
• Size: Grows up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide
• Non-toxic to pets

30. Corn Plant (Dracaena fragrans)

Corn plants are known for their tall, narrow growth, making them ideal for compact spaces. Their long, thin leaves resemble corn stalks, hence their name. While they thrive in bright, indirect light, they can still survive in lower light settings.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers indirect sunlight
• Soil: Requires a moist, well-draining potting mix
• Water: Keep the soil moist, but avoid over-watering
• Size: Can grow up to 6 feet tall
• Toxic to pets

31. African False Hosta (Drimiopsis maculata)

This plant, native to South Africa, bears a striking resemblance to true hostas and can be grown as groundcover, edging, or even in containers.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers partial sunlight
• Soil: Enjoys loamy, well-draining soil
• Water: Let the soil dry out between waterings
• Size: Can reach up to 12 inches in height
• Not toxic to pets

32. Mistletoe Cactus (Rhipsalis baccifera)

The mistletoe cactus is an intriguing succulent known for its pencil-shaped stems. This plant thrives in higher humidity than typical cacti, so positioning it near a humidifier or in a bathroom will benefit it.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers indirect light
• Soil: A well-draining potting mix is ideal
• Water: Let the soil dry out between waterings
• Size: It can grow up to 6 feet tall and 2 feet wide
• Safe for pets