The Ultimate Guide to Low Light Houseplants (2025)
Discover the best houseplants that thrive in low-light conditions. Perfect for apartments, offices, and rooms without much natural sunlight.
The Ultimate Guide to Low Light Houseplants (2025)
Living in a space with limited natural light doesn't mean you have to give up on your plant parent dreams. Many beautiful houseplants not only survive but thrive in low-light conditions. This comprehensive guide will help you choose the perfect low-light plants for your home.
What Qualifies as "Low Light"?
Low light doesn't mean no light. It typically refers to:
- North-facing windows - receive indirect light all day
- Rooms 6+ feet away from windows - ambient light but no direct sun
- Spaces with indirect or filtered light - light passes through curtains or other obstacles
- Offices with fluorescent lighting - artificial light can sustain some plants
- Bathrooms without windows - when supplemented with a grow light
Pro Tip: You can measure light levels with a free smartphone app. Low light is typically 50-250 foot-candles (fc). If you can comfortably read a book in that spot without artificial light, you have enough light for low-light plants.
Not sure which low-light plant is right for your space? Use our Plant Finder tool to get personalized recommendations based on your room's light levels and your care preferences.
Top 15 Low Light Plants
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Why it's perfect: Nearly indestructible, tolerates neglect, and actually improves air quality by producing oxygen at night. Read our complete Snake Plant care guide for detailed growing tips.
- Light: Low to bright indirect light
- Water: Every 2-3 weeks (less in winter)
- Care Level: ⭐ Beginner-friendly
- Pet Safe: ❌ No (toxic to cats and dogs)
- Special Feature: NASA clean air study plant
The snake plant (also called Mother-in-Law's Tongue) is the ultimate survivor. It can go weeks without water and tolerates low light better than almost any other plant.
Care Tips:
- Let soil dry completely between waterings
- Wipe leaves monthly to remove dust
- Rarely needs fertilizing (once in spring/summer)
- Thrives when pot-bound
2. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Why it's perfect: Fast-growing, easy to propagate, and adapts to various light conditions. Often called the "cubicle plant." Learn everything about Pothos care in our detailed guide.
- Light: Low to medium indirect light
- Water: When top inch of soil is dry
- Care Level: ⭐ Very easy
- Pet Safe: ❌ No (toxic to pets)
- Growth: Vining, can trail 10+ feet
Pothos comes in several varieties (Golden, Marble Queen, Neon, Jade) and all tolerate low light beautifully.
Care Tips:
- Can grow in water or soil
- Pinch back to encourage bushiness
- Yellowing leaves = overwatering
- Propagate cuttings in water easily
3. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Why it's perfect: Tolerates extreme neglect and low light better than most plants. Glossy, waxy leaves look perpetually healthy. Discover complete ZZ Plant care tips in our comprehensive guide.
- Light: Low to bright indirect light
- Water: Every 2-4 weeks
- Care Level: ⭐ Beginner-friendly
- Pet Safe: ❌ No (mildly toxic)
- Drought Tolerance: Exceptional
The ZZ Plant stores water in its rhizomes, making it incredibly drought-tolerant.
Care Tips:
- Better to underwater than overwater
- Can tolerate fluorescent lights only
- Grows slowly but steadily
- Wipe leaves for shine
4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Why it's perfect: Tells you when it needs water by drooping (then perks up within hours), produces beautiful white flowers, and is a top air purifier.
- Light: Low to medium indirect light
- Water: Weekly, droops when thirsty
- Care Level: ⭐⭐ Easy
- Pet Safe: ❌ No (toxic to pets)
- Air Purifying: Excellent
Peace lilies can bloom even in low light, producing elegant white "flowers" (actually specialized leaves called spathes).
Care Tips:
- Use filtered or distilled water (sensitive to chlorine)
- Brown tips mean too much direct sun or chemicals in water
- Increase humidity for more blooms
- Remove spent flowers at base
5. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Why it's perfect: Stunning foliage patterns in greens, reds, and pinks. Extremely adaptable and forgiving.
- Light: Low to medium light
- Water: When top 2 inches of soil is dry
- Care Level: ⭐ Easy
- Pet Safe: ❌ No (toxic if ingested)
- Varieties: 100+ cultivars
Chinese Evergreens come in spectacular color combinations and can tolerate very low light.
Care Tips:
- Red/pink varieties need more light
- Prefers warm temperatures (65-75°F)
- Avoid cold drafts
- Likes humidity but adapts
Shop Chinese Evergreen on Amazon →
6. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
Why it's perfect: Named for its ability to withstand neglect, heat, cold, dust, and low light. Victorian-era favorite.
- Light: Low light tolerant
- Water: Every 2-3 weeks
- Care Level: ⭐ Very easy
- Pet Safe: ✅ Yes
- Cold Tolerance: Can survive to 20°F
This plant earned its name honestly - it's nearly impossible to kill.
Care Tips:
- Grows very slowly
- Can live in same pot for years
- Tolerates dust but benefits from occasional wiping
- Can survive in corners away from windows
Shop Cast Iron Plants on Amazon →
7. Dracaena (Multiple Species)
Why it's perfect: Many varieties available, great for corners and low-light spaces, and can grow quite tall for vertical interest.
- Light: Low to bright indirect light
- Water: Weekly (let dry between)
- Care Level: ⭐ Easy
- Pet Safe: ❌ No (toxic to cats and dogs)
- Height: 2-10 feet depending on variety
Popular varieties: Dracaena Marginata (Dragon Tree), Dracaena Fragrans (Corn Plant), Dracaena Janet Craig.
Care Tips:
- Use fluoride-free water (tap water can cause brown tips)
- Prefers humidity but adapts
- Slow-growing, minimal fertilizer needed
- Dust leaves regularly
8. Philodendron (Heartleaf & Others)
Why it's perfect: Versatile, comes in climbing and non-climbing varieties, extremely low-maintenance. Get expert Philodendron care tips in our detailed guide.
- Light: Low to bright indirect light
- Water: When top inch is dry
- Care Level: ⭐ Easy
- Pet Safe: ❌ No (toxic)
- Growth Style: Vining or upright
Heartleaf Philodendron is the most common, with glossy heart-shaped leaves.
Care Tips:
- Vining types look great in hanging baskets
- Can grow in water
- Prune to control size
- Aerial roots are normal
Shop Philodendrons on Amazon →
9. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Why it's perfect: Produces baby plants (spiderettes), great for beginners, air purifying, nearly impossible to kill. Master Spider Plant care with our complete guide.
- Light: Low to bright indirect light
- Water: Weekly (likes to stay slightly moist)
- Care Level: ⭐ Very easy
- Pet Safe: ✅ Yes (safe for cats and dogs!)
- Propagation: Produces plantlets
Spider plants are classic houseplants that thrive with minimal care.
Care Tips:
- Brown tips indicate chemicals in water or too much fluoride
- Babies can be potted or left hanging
- Likes to be slightly pot-bound for more babies
- Yellow leaves = overwatering
Shop Spider Plants on Amazon →
10. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Why it's perfect: Grows in water, minimal care required, considered auspicious in Feng Shui.
- Light: Low to medium indirect light
- Water: Keep water fresh
- Care Level: ⭐ Very easy
- Pet Safe: ❌ No (toxic to pets)
- Growing Method: Water or soil
Despite the name, it's not actually bamboo but a type of Dracaena.
Care Tips:
- Change water weekly
- Use distilled or filtered water
- Can transfer to soil
- Yellowing stalks = too much light or fertilizer
11. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
Why it's perfect: Fascinating leaves that fold up at night like praying hands, beautiful patterns, low-light tolerant.
- Light: Low to medium indirect light
- Water: Keep soil moist but not soggy
- Care Level: ⭐⭐ Moderate
- Pet Safe: ✅ Yes
- Special Feature: Leaves move with day/night cycle
The Prayer Plant's leaves actually move throughout the day, rising at night.
Care Tips:
- Loves humidity (great for bathrooms)
- Brown edges indicate dry air
- Rarely needs fertilizing
- Appreciates misting
Shop Prayer Plants on Amazon →
12. Calathea (Various Species)
Why it's perfect: Stunning leaf patterns, thrives in low light, safe for pets.
- Light: Low to medium indirect light
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist
- Care Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Moderate to advanced
- Pet Safe: ✅ Yes
- Humidity: Needs high humidity
Calatheas are finicky but reward you with gorgeous foliage.
Care Tips:
- Use distilled water
- Needs high humidity (group with other plants)
- Avoid direct sunlight
- Browning edges = low humidity or fluoride
13. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
Why it's perfect: Classic palm that tolerates low light, adds tropical vibes, air purifying.
- Light: Low to bright indirect light
- Water: When top inch is dry
- Care Level: ⭐⭐ Easy
- Pet Safe: ✅ Yes
- Growth: Slow-growing to 4 feet
Victorian-era parlor favorite, still popular today.
Care Tips:
- Likes humidity but adapts
- Yellow fronds indicate overwatering
- Brown tips mean dry air or underwatering
- Slow-growing, patient rewards
14. Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
Why it's perfect: Large, decorative leaves with white or cream variegation, fast-growing.
- Light: Low to medium indirect light
- Water: When top 2 inches are dry
- Care Level: ⭐⭐ Easy
- Pet Safe: ❌ No (very toxic)
- Height: 3-5 feet
Warning: Called "Dumb Cane" because ingestion causes temporary inability to speak.
Care Tips:
- Wear gloves when handling
- Keep away from children and pets
- Rotate for even growth
- Leaves droop when thirsty
Shop Dieffenbachia on Amazon →
15. Monstera Deliciosa
Why it's perfect: Iconic split leaves, Instagram-worthy, surprisingly low-light tolerant when acclimated. Learn how to grow Monstera successfully with our expert tips.
- Light: Medium to bright indirect (adapts to low)
- Water: When top 2 inches are dry
- Care Level: ⭐⭐ Easy
- Pet Safe: ❌ No (toxic)
- Growth: Can climb or trail
While Monsteras prefer brighter light, they can adapt to lower light conditions.
Care Tips:
- Fenestrations (splits) develop with maturity
- Provide moss pole for climbing
- Aerial roots are normal
- Dust large leaves regularly
Still unsure which plant to choose? Try our Plant Finder to compare these low-light plants and find the perfect match for your specific space.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overwatering (The #1 Killer!)
Low-light plants photosynthesize less, meaning they use less water. Many plant parents kill their low-light plants with kindness by overwatering.
Solution:
- Always check soil moisture before watering
- Stick your finger 1-2 inches into soil
- When in doubt, wait another day
- Ensure pots have drainage holes
2. Expecting Fast Growth
Low-light plants grow much slower than their sun-bathing cousins. This is completely normal!
Solution:
- Be patient - slow growth ≠ unhealthy plant
- Feed monthly during growing season with diluted fertilizer
- Provide optimal care to maximize growth
- Don't overfertilize trying to speed things up
3. Placing in Zero Light
Even "low-light" plants need some light to photosynthesize and survive.
Solution:
- Provide at least ambient room light
- Consider a small grow light for very dark spaces
- Rotate plants occasionally if light is directional
- Move to brighter spot periodically
4. Ignoring Dust Buildup
Dust on leaves blocks light absorption, which is already limited in low-light conditions.
Solution:
- Wipe leaves monthly with damp cloth
- Give plants a shower occasionally
- Use leaf shine products sparingly (can block pores)
- Clean both sides of large leaves
5. Using Cold Tap Water
Chlorine, fluoride, and temperature shock can harm sensitive plants.
Solution:
- Let tap water sit overnight before using
- Use room-temperature water
- Consider filtered water for sensitive plants
- Collect rainwater when possible
How to Measure Light Levels
Not sure if your space has enough light? Here are simple ways to test:
1. The Hand Test
Hold your hand between the light source and where you want to place your plant:
- Faint shadow = low light (50-250 fc)
- Soft shadow = medium light (250-1000 fc)
- Strong shadow = bright indirect light (1000+ fc)
2. The Reading Test
Can you comfortably read a book without artificial light?
- Yes, easily = adequate for low-light plants
- Squinting required = may need supplemental grow light
- Can't read = definitely need grow light
3. Light Meter Apps
Download a free light meter app on your smartphone:
- Low Light: 50-250 foot-candles
- Medium Light: 250-1,000 foot-candles
- Bright Light: 1,000+ foot-candles
Recommended Apps: Lux Light Meter (Android), Light Meter (iOS)
Complete Care Guide for Low-Light Plants
Watering Schedule
General Guidelines:
- Check soil moisture weekly
- Water less in winter (plants go dormant)
- Use room-temperature water
- Ensure proper drainage (no soggy soil!)
- Watch for plant signals (drooping, yellowing)
Watering Frequency by Plant Type:
- Succulents (Snake Plant, ZZ): Every 2-4 weeks
- Foliage Plants (Pothos, Philodendron): Weekly or when top inch is dry
- Moisture-Lovers (Peace Lily, Prayer Plant): Keep soil consistently moist
Feeding
- Frequency: Monthly during spring/summer
- Type: Balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20)
- Dilution: Half-strength to avoid burning
- Winter: Reduce or stop feeding (plants rest)
Warning: Over-fertilizing causes more damage than under-fertilizing. When in doubt, feed less!
Humidity
Most tropical houseplants appreciate humidity but can adapt to average home levels (40-50%).
Increase Humidity:
- Group plants together
- Use pebble tray with water
- Run a humidifier
- Mist regularly (morning is best)
Cleaning
- Frequency: Monthly for large-leaved plants
- Method: Wipe with damp cloth or soft brush
- Benefits: Improves photosynthesis, prevents pests
- Shower: Rinse plants in sink occasionally
Repotting
- Frequency: Every 2-3 years or when root-bound
- Best Time: Spring (active growing season)
- Pot Size: Only 1-2 inches larger
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix
Styling Low-Light Spaces
Bathroom
Perfect for humidity-loving low-light plants:
- Pothos - hang from shower rod
- Peace Lily - countertop elegance
- ZZ Plant - floor plant in corner
- Snake Plant - tolerates steam
Styling Tips:
- Use waterproof planters
- Place on tray to catch drips
- Choose easy-clean pots
- Group small plants on shelf
Bedroom
Air-purifying options for better sleep:
- Snake Plant - produces oxygen at night
- Peace Lily - removes toxins
- Spider Plant - safe and pretty
- Pothos - trailing from shelf
Styling Tips:
- Avoid strong scents (can disrupt sleep)
- Choose quiet-looking plants
- Use neutral planters
- Keep away from bed if allergic
Office/Desk
Professional-looking, low-maintenance options:
- ZZ Plant - modern and sleek
- Snake Plant - architectural
- Pothos - softens hard edges
- Chinese Evergreen - colorful accent
Styling Tips:
- Use cachepots (decorative outer pot)
- Choose compact varieties
- Minimal watering needed
- Consider self-watering pots
Dark Corners
Make use of forgotten spaces:
- Dracaena (tall varieties) - vertical interest
- Cast Iron Plant - ultimate survivor
- Chinese Evergreen - floor plant
- Philodendron - cascading option
Styling Tips:
- Use grow lights if truly dark
- Pair with decorative basket
- Add LED strip light above
- Rotate monthly for even growth
When to Use Grow Lights
If your space has no natural light, LED grow lights can save the day:
Choosing a Grow Light
- Type: Full-spectrum LED (mimics sunlight)
- Distance: 6-12 inches above plants
- Duration: 12-16 hours daily
- Wattage: 20-40W for small space
Best Grow Lights for Low-Light Plants
- Clip-On LED - perfect for single plants
- Strip Lights - under shelves
- Bulbs - retrofit existing lamps
- Panel Lights - multiple plants
Budget Tip: Start with a simple clip-on LED. You don't need expensive equipment for low-light plants!
Quick Reference: Plant Comparison Table
| Plant | Care Level | Water Frequency | Pet Safe? | Air Purifying? | Max Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snake Plant | ⭐ Easy | 2-3 weeks | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | 3-4 ft |
| Pothos | ⭐ Easy | Weekly | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | 10+ ft (vining) |
| ZZ Plant | ⭐ Easy | 2-4 weeks | ❌ No | ✅ Moderate | 2-3 ft |
| Peace Lily | ⭐⭐ Easy | Weekly | ❌ No | ✅✅ Excellent | 1-3 ft |
| Chinese Evergreen | ⭐ Easy | 1-2 weeks | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | 1-3 ft |
| Cast Iron Plant | ⭐ Easy | 2-3 weeks | ✅ Yes | ✅ Moderate | 2-3 ft |
| Spider Plant | ⭐ Easy | Weekly | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | 1-2 ft |
| Dracaena | ⭐ Easy | Weekly | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | 2-10 ft |
| Philodendron | ⭐ Easy | Weekly | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Varies |
| Prayer Plant | ⭐⭐ Moderate | 2x weekly | ✅ Yes | ✅ Moderate | 1 ft |
| Parlor Palm | ⭐⭐ Easy | Weekly | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | 3-4 ft |
| Calathea | ⭐⭐⭐ Moderate | 2x weekly | ✅ Yes | ✅ Moderate | 1-2 ft |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can low-light plants survive with no windows?
Yes, with grow lights! Plants need some light source to photosynthesize, but grow lights can completely substitute for natural light. Run them 12-16 hours daily for best results.
Why are my low-light plant's leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves usually indicate overwatering, which is the #1 cause of death for low-light plants. Let soil dry out more between waterings. It could also mean too much direct sun (ironic, but possible!).
How often should I repot low-light plants?
Every 2-3 years or when roots grow out of drainage holes. Low-light plants grow slowly and don't need frequent repotting. Some (like snake plants) actually prefer being slightly pot-bound.
Can I put low-light plants in bright light?
Yes, but acclimate gradually! Most low-light plants can adapt to brighter conditions, but sudden exposure causes leaf burn. Move incrementally over 2-3 weeks, monitoring for brown spots.
Do low-light plants need fertilizer?
Yes, but less frequently. Feed monthly during spring/summer with diluted fertilizer. In winter, reduce or stop feeding as plants naturally slow down.
What's the easiest low-light plant for beginners?
Snake Plant or ZZ Plant. Both tolerate neglect, forgive irregular watering, survive in low light, and look great with minimal effort.
Why aren't my low-light plants growing?
Low-light plants grow much slower than plants in bright light. This is normal! They photosynthesize less, so they produce new growth more slowly. Be patient.
Can I use tap water for low-light plants?
Usually yes, but let it sit overnight to dissipate chlorine. Some plants (Calathea, Prayer Plant, Dracaena) are sensitive to fluoride and prefer filtered or distilled water.
How do I know if my plant needs more light?
Signs of insufficient light:
- Leggy, stretched growth
- Smaller new leaves
- Loss of variegation
- Leaning toward light source
- No new growth for months
Are low-light plants good for offices?
Absolutely! Many low-light plants thrive under fluorescent office lighting. Top choices: ZZ Plant, Snake Plant, Pothos, and Chinese Evergreen.
Shopping Guide: What You'll Need
Essential Supplies
- Pots with Drainage - Prevent root rot
- Saucers - Protect surfaces
- Potting Mix - Well-draining soil
- Watering Can - With narrow spout
- Moisture Meter - Takes guesswork out (optional but helpful)
Optional But Helpful
- Grow Light - For very dark spaces
- Humidifier - For tropical plants
- Liquid Fertilizer - Balanced 20-20-20
- Pruning Shears - Keep plants tidy
- Plant Mister - Increase humidity
Shop Complete Plant Starter Kit →
Ready to Find Your Perfect Low-Light Plant?
Now that you're armed with knowledge, it's time to choose your first (or next) low-light plant!
Use Our Free Plant Finder Tool to get personalized recommendations based on your exact space conditions, light levels, and preferences. Just answer a few quick questions!
Before You Go: Pro Tips Summary
- Water less, not more - Overwatering kills more plants than anything else
- Be patient - Low-light plants grow slowly, and that's okay
- Provide some light - "Low light" ≠ "no light"
- Clean leaves monthly - Dust blocks precious light
- Watch for signals - Plants tell you what they need
- Start with snake or ZZ - Build confidence with easy plants
- Proper drainage is critical - Soggy roots = dead plant
- Less fertilizer is more - Don't overfeed
- Group plants together - Creates humidity microclimate
- Enjoy the journey - Plants are forgiving teachers!
Related Guides
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Last Updated: January 15, 2025
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