Let’s be real here: best indoor plants for low light pretty much saved my sanity during my last apartment move. You know that dark, cave-like room that just eats up all your energy? Yeah, I had one—felt like living in a shoebox sometimes. Adding plants not only helped hide my less stylish corners but actually made me feel happier. If you’re worried that you need loads of sunlight like those fancy garden bloggers, relax. There are loads of fun options out there that don’t need sunbathing just to survive. I stumbled across some fantastic choices while digging into indoor plants for clean air and beautiful decor and browsing tips on the 11 best colorful indoor plants for every home…now I’m totally hooked. Let’s ditch those sad, plastic “decor” plants and try the real deal for a change.
Table of Contents
Tolerate vs Thrive
So, big question… what’s the difference between a plant that just “tolerates” low light and one that truly thrives? Maybe you’ve seen this term tossed around. In my experience—yep, it matters a lot. Some plants can survive in the corner, sure. But they grow slow, drop leaves or look straight up mopey. Others (this shocked me) will get bushier and greener, even in that north-facing window you’ve practically forgotten.
If you only want a “set it and forget it” plant, the tolerant ones (hello, snake plants) will get the job done. But for true lushness and that bright, lively vibe, you want those that seem excited (can plants get excited?) to live in your low-light space. Trust me: that little extra makes a whole room feel alive.
I’ve tested both the troopers and the picky show-offs. And honestly, nothing’s more satisfying than seeing new leaves unfurl even on cloudy days.
“My ZZ plant literally doubled in size this winter, and I barely paid attention to it! Low light superstar.”
— Beth C., fellow plant addict
Plants That Thrive in Low Light Indoor Conditions
Alright, let’s get specific about indoor plants that don’t turn into sad sticks when the sunshine disappears. Here are some secret MVPs (seriously, if I can keep these alive, anyone can):
Snake Plant: Maybe a little basic, but it lives forever. You can almost forget you own it.
Pothos: Fast grower, trails everywhere—even in a windowless bathroom.
Peace Lily: Blooms indoors? Yes, impossible in my head too, but they do it.
ZZ Plant: Thick, waxy, looks fake… but it’s real. Also basically impossible to kill.
And if you want more wow factor, here’s an idea: Try bamboo. I recommend checking this list of the best indoor bamboo plants for low light, which I regret not finding sooner! They’re unexpectedly stylish.
If you want even more tiny jungles (I can’t resist), peep at the small green living indoor plants for green home for cute options that don’t take up your whole bookshelf.
Personally? Pothos and ZZ plants bounce back—even after forgetting to water for like, weeks (oops).
The Best Low Light Tree for Indoors: Dracaena
Let’s talk about a true statement-maker: the Dracaena. Honestly, I thought only big, sunny windows could handle these indoor trees. Turns out, plenty of Dracaena types, especially the Dracaena Marginata, love low light. The leaves get dramatic, spiky but elegant…and their colors actually look richer without too much sun.
Here’s the kicker: it purifies air (I needed this after my weird cooking experiment phase). Dracaena does not fuss—no fancy routines, just occasional water and some dusting if you remember. Even my plant-shy friend started with one and—three months later—hers looks better than mine.
Mistake to avoid? Don’t overwater. Wait until the soil feels mostly dry. That’s…really about it.
Want a nicely-sized lush tree that doesn’t die on you? This is it. Best “big plant” for a moody living room, hands down.
Indoor Plant Care Tips
Alright, a few “learn from my mistakes” nuggets if you want your low-light plant crew to look like they belong in a five-star restaurant lobby:
- Use pots with drainage holes, always. Soggy roots = grumpy plants.
- Rotate your plants every couple weeks. Makes them grow evenly and stops them leaning like they’re in a windstorm.
- Don’t drown them—seriously, less is more. Feel the soil before watering. If in doubt, wait.
- Dust the leaves with a soft cloth once a month. Yeah, I know, it sounds fussy but makes a difference.
Took me ages to figure out that yellow leaves mean I’m watering too much. If you want to go above and beyond, pick up some simple indoor plant fertilizer (once a month, max) and that’ll boost health, especially after winter slumps.
Want smarter ideas for tight spaces or problem corners? I love these best plants for container gardening—mix and match until it feels right! and For more gardening tips follow us on Pinterest.
32 Best Indoor Plants for Low Light to Brighten Up Your Home
Ready for a list? I went through dozens and played around with lots. Here are my repeat buys (and trade-with-friends musts!)—these brighten up even the darkest corners:
Snake Plant, ZZ Plant, Pothos (so classic), Peace Lily, Dracaena varieties, Bamboo Palm, Aglaonema, Cast Iron Plant, Spider Plant, Philodendron, Bird’s Nest Fern, Peperomia, Chinese Evergreen, Parlor Palm, Maidenhair Fern, English Ivy, Dumb Cane, Calathea, Boston Fern, Anthurium, Polka Dot Plant, Fittonia, Swedish Ivy, Lucky Bamboo, Asparagus Fern, Kentia Palm, Heartleaf Philodendron, Prayer Plant, Silver Vine, Alocasia Polly, Hoya, Fiddle Leaf Fig (with patience), and Syngonium.
Each one brings something new—different shapes, different vibes, zero fuss with light. Even a wild pop of color (love when blooms surprise you). Seriously, if you want more color ideas, dive into these the 11 best colorful indoor plants for every home for combos you’ve probably never tried.
Getting a bit plant-obsessed? Absolutely. But in a good way.
“Couldn’t believe my sad living room now looks so greenish and alive. Never going back!”
— Andy, downtown condo dweller
Ready to Level Up Your Space?
Jumping into the world of low-light plants seriously changes the feel of your home. I’ve shared what actually works for me (and the mistakes too). Remember, whether you’re picking just a snake plant or giving bamboo a try, even a little greenery makes everything brighter.
For even more inspiration, it’s worth checking out these Recommendations for low light house plants? : r/houseplants and, for cute home-friendly combos, peep ideas for small green living indoor plants for green home. Promise, it’s worth trying—even if you think you’ve got the “worst light ever”.
Common Questions
Can any plant survive in total darkness?
Not really—plants need some light to live. But some like pothos or snake plant will tolerate super low light, like in a hallway.
How often do I water low light plants?
Less often than you think! Wait until the soil is dry to the touch. Usually that means every 2–3 weeks, but depends on your room temp, really.
Will my plants grow fast in low light?
Nope, most will grow slowly but that’s okay. Slow and steady, and less pruning needed.
What if my plant’s leaves are turning yellow?
That’s almost always from overwatering. Let the soil dry out and cut back on the H2O.
Can I mix low light plants with others in the same room?
For sure! Mix shade lovers with moderate light guys for a real jungle feel. Looks cozy, trust me.