Thriving in Low-Light Conditions: The Best Houseplants for Shade
If you’re looking to spruce up your place with some potted plants, but don’t have a lot of natural light coming through, don’t despair! There are plenty of houseplants that thrive in low-light conditions. From ferns and philodendrons to ivy and peace lilies, there’s something for everyone – even those without bright windowsills.
ZZ
The ZZ Plant grows well in a dry environment and pushes the low-light limit to its extreme. Native to East Africa and Tanzania where it thrives in heat and drought, ZZ has become a popular houseplant because of its tolerance for less-than-perfect conditions.
Ferns
Ferns are excellent houseplants for low light because they thrive off the moisture found in the air. They prefer indirect or filtered light and need to be watered frequently throughout the summer months. Ferns can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but should not be exposed to cold drafts. To keep your fern looking its best, make sure it's situated away from any hot or cold spots in your home.
Philodendrons
Philodendrons make great houseplants for low light areas because they do not require direct sunlight. They prefer indirect or filtered light and should be kept away from sources of heat or cold drafts. Philodendrons should be watered regularly during the spring and summer months, but make sure not to overwater them as this can cause root rot. When watering, allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot from occurring.
Pothos/Devil's Ivy (Epipremnum Aureum)
The pothos is an attractive choice if you're looking for a low-maintenance houseplant for low light conditions. The Pothos prefers indirect or filtered light so make sure it is situated away from sources of direct sunlight. Needs regular watering during the growing season but it should not be overwatered as this can lead to root rot. Loves the bathroom in Winter for its humidity.
Peace Lilies
Peace lilies are one of the most popular houseplants for low-light areas because they require only minimal care and maintenance. They prefer indirect or filtered light rather than direct sun and need to be watered often during the warmer months but less so during wintertime when growth slows down considerably. Letting peace lilies sit in standing water can cause root rot so it's important to let them dry out between waterings as much as possible.
Snake Plant
Snake plant performs well in dry spells and handles moderate to low light with ease. An ideal spot indoors is about 10 feet away from a west or south window. Pay attention to pot tags when buying snake plants. Some varieties, especially variegated ones, need a particular light level to retain brightest leaf colour.
Parlor Palm
Parlor palms can adapt to low light conditions or thrive near windows with cool morning sun or late afternoon light. This finely-textured palm is a good choice for beginning gardeners.
Mass Cane or Corn Plant
Mass cane or corn plants (Dracaena fragrans) are low-maintenance evergreens from Africa. Grow them under artificial lights or in low light. If their leaf colours fade, they may be signalling their need for brighter, filtered light.
Schefflera Arboricola
Sometimes called dwarf umbrella trees, Schefflera arboricolas thrive in low to medium light environments. They'll also grow under artificial lights if they're kept within about one foot of the light. If your Schefflera becomes leggy or grows slowly, it probably needs a brighter location.
Calathea
Calathea, including the beloved prayer plant, grow well in medium to low light. They require consistent moisture for best performance. As a rule, the lower the light, the less frequently they will flower.
Chinese Evergreen
Aglaonema, or Chinese evergreen, is an easy-to-grow foliage plant that performs well in low to medium light. Let it dry between waterings.
With these favourite options, you should be able to find something perfect for your home no matter how dark your living space may be! And if you’d rather not go through the hassle of selecting individual plants, why not check out our Low Light Houseplant Box? It contains five different types of low-light tolerant houseplants assorted together – making it easier than ever to brighten up your home! So don't let a bit of darkness hold you back; get yourself some beautiful houseplants today!