25 Best Low Light Indoor Plants For Home

Finding the perfect indoor plants can be a challenge, especially when your space lacks abundant natural light. For those living in apartments or homes with limited sunlight, the solution lies in choosing low light indoor plants that thrive in shaded or dim conditions. These resilient plants not only enhance your home’s decor but also improve air quality and add a touch of nature to your living space.

In this guide, we’ve curated a list of the best 25 low light indoor plants that are perfect for transforming any room, regardless of its lighting conditions. From lush ferns to elegant palms, these plants are chosen for their ability to flourish in low light environments, making them ideal for areas where sunlight is scarce. Explore these fantastic options and discover how easy it can be to maintain a vibrant, green home.

25 Best Low Light Indoor Plants

Add a touch of greenery to your home, or simply want something low-maintenance, this list of the 25 best low light indoor plants will help you find the perfect match. From hardy, easy-to-care-for options to more unique and decorative choices, there’s something for every space and style.

1. Snake Plant

• Scientific Name: Sansevieria trifasciata
• Family: Asparagaceae
• Best Temperature: 70-90°F (21-32°C)
• Best Month: March to May
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining potting soil

The Snake Plant, also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is one of the best low light indoor plants. It thrives in a wide range of light conditions, from low light to indirect bright light, making it perfect for any room in your home. Snake plants are known for their air-purifying qualities, filtering out toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene. They require minimal care, needing water only when the soil is completely dry, which makes them ideal for beginners. Additionally, Snake Plants can adapt to low light conditions, making them a resilient and easy-to-grow indoor plant.

2. ZZ Plant

• Scientific Name: Zamioculcas zamiifolia
• Family: Araceae
• Best Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
• Best Month: May to September
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining, sandy soil

The ZZ Plant is a robust, low-maintenance plant that is highly tolerant of low light indoor conditions. This plant features glossy, dark green leaves that add a touch of elegance to any space. ZZ Plants are extremely drought-tolerant and can survive for weeks without water, making them an excellent choice for busy individuals or those new to plant care. Its ability to thrive in low light and indirect sunlight makes it perfect for dim corners and spaces with minimal natural light.

3. Pothos

• Scientific Name: Epipremnum aureum
• Family: Araceae
• Best Temperature: 60-80°F (16-27°C)
• Best Month: Year-round
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining potting mix with perlite

Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is one of the most popular low light indoor plants. Its heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines make it a versatile option for hanging baskets, shelves, or as a tabletop plant. Pothos is extremely easy to care for and can thrive in low light conditions, making it perfect for offices or rooms with limited sunlight. This plant is also known for its air-purifying properties, removing toxins like formaldehyde and xylene from the air.

4. Philodendron

• Scientific Name: Philodendron hederaceum
• Family: Araceae
• Best Temperature: 65-78°F (18-25°C)
• Best Month: Spring to early summer
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining soil with peat and perlite

Philodendrons are classic low light indoor plants that have been popular for decades due to their adaptability and attractive foliage. They come in various shapes and sizes, but all varieties are known for their ability to thrive in low light conditions. Philodendrons are low-maintenance plants that require little water and can tolerate neglect, making them perfect for beginners or those with a busy lifestyle. They are also excellent air purifiers, helping to keep your indoor environment healthy.

5. Peace Lily

• Scientific Name: Spathiphyllum wallisii
• Family: Araceae
• Best Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Best Month: Spring to early fall
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining potting mix with peat moss

Peace Lilies are elegant low light indoor plants that produce beautiful white blooms and lush green foliage. These plants are perfect for low light areas, as they can thrive in environments with little sunlight. Peace Lilies are also known for their air-purifying abilities, removing toxins such as ammonia and formaldehyde from the air. They require moderate watering and can adapt to different humidity levels, making them an easy-care plant for any home.

6. Cast Iron Plant

• Scientific Name: Aspidistra elatior
• Family: Asparagaceae
• Best Temperature: 60-75°F (16-24°C)
• Best Month: March to June
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining soil with organic matter

The Cast Iron Plant is known for its durability and ability to thrive in low light indoor environments. As its name suggests, this plant is nearly indestructible, making it an ideal choice for those who may not have a green thumb. The Cast Iron Plant features large, dark green leaves that add a touch of greenery to any room. It is tolerant of low light, irregular watering, and temperature fluctuations, making it one of the best low-maintenance plants for indoor spaces.

7. Dracaena

• Scientific Name: Dracaena marginata
• Family: Asparagaceae
• Best Temperature: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
• Best Month: Year-round
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining potting soil with perlite

Dracaena is a popular low light indoor plant known for its striking, sword-like leaves. This plant can adapt to a variety of light conditions, including low light, making it suitable for homes with limited natural light. Dracaena is easy to care for, requiring only occasional watering and minimal maintenance. It is also known for its air-purifying qualities, helping to remove toxins such as formaldehyde and xylene from your indoor environment.

8. Chinese Evergreen

• Scientific Name: Aglaonema commutatum
• Family: Araceae
• Best Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
• Best Month: Spring to summer
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining, peat-based soil

Chinese Evergreen is one of the best low light indoor plants, known for its attractive, variegated leaves and ease of care. This plant can tolerate low light conditions, making it perfect for spaces with little natural sunlight. Chinese Evergreen is also known for its air-purifying abilities, helping to improve indoor air quality by removing toxins. It is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal watering and can adapt to different humidity levels.

9. Spider Plant

• Scientific Name: Chlorophytum comosum
• Family: Asparagaceae
• Best Temperature: 55-80°F (13-27°C)
• Best Month: Spring to early summer
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining potting soil with perlite

The Spider Plant is a classic low light indoor plant known for its arching, green and white striped leaves. It is incredibly easy to care for and can thrive in low light conditions, making it perfect for beginners. Spider Plants are also known for their air-purifying abilities, removing toxins such as carbon monoxide and formaldehyde from the air. They are fast-growing and can produce small offshoots, or “spiderettes,” which can be propagated to create new plants.

10. Parlor Palm

• Scientific Name: Chamaedorea elegans
• Family: Arecaceae
• Best Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
• Best Month: Spring to summer
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining potting soil with peat

The Parlor Palm is a popular choice for low light indoor plants due to its graceful, arching fronds and compact size. This palm can thrive in low light conditions, making it suitable for homes with minimal natural light. Parlor Palms are low-maintenance plants that require only occasional watering and can tolerate dry indoor air. They are also non-toxic to pets, making them a safe option for households with animals.

11. Boston Fern

• Scientific Name: Nephrolepis exaltata
• Family: Nephrolepidaceae
• Best Temperature: 60-75°F (16-24°C)
• Best Month: Spring to early summer
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining, peat-based soil

Boston Ferns are elegant low light indoor plants known for their feathery, arching fronds. They thrive in low light conditions, making them perfect for bathrooms, bedrooms, or shaded living rooms. Boston Ferns require a bit more care than some other low light plants, as they prefer high humidity and regular watering. However, they are excellent air purifiers, helping to remove toxins from the air and improve indoor air quality.

12. Heartleaf Philodendron

• Scientific Name: Philodendron hederaceum
• Family: Araceae
• Best Temperature: 65-78°F (18-25°C)
• Best Month: Year-round
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining potting soil with peat

The Heartleaf Philodendron is a classic low light indoor plant known for its heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines. This plant is incredibly easy to care for and can thrive in low light conditions, making it perfect for beginners. Heartleaf Philodendrons are also known for their air-purifying abilities, helping to remove toxins such as formaldehyde from the air. They require minimal watering and can adapt to a variety of indoor environments.

13. Calathea

• Scientific Name: Calathea spp.
• Family: Marantaceae
• Best Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
• Best Month: Year-round
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining, peat-based soil

Calatheas are beautiful low light indoor plants known for their striking, patterned leaves. They thrive in low light conditions, making them perfect for rooms with limited sunlight. Calatheas are a bit more demanding in terms of care, as they prefer high humidity and consistent moisture. However, their stunning foliage and ability to thrive in low light make them a rewarding choice for indoor gardening enthusiasts.

14. English Ivy

• Scientific Name: Hedera helix
• Family: Araliaceae
• Best Temperature: 50-70°F (10-21°C)
• Best Month: Spring to summer
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil

English Ivy is a versatile low light indoor plant known for its trailing vines and attractive, lobed leaves. This plant can thrive in low light conditions, making it suitable for hanging baskets or as a ground cover in indoor gardens. English Ivy is also known for its air-purifying abilities, helping to remove toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air. It requires moderate watering and can adapt to different indoor environments.

15. Lucky Bamboo

• Scientific Name: Dracaena sanderiana
• Family: Asparagaceae
• Best Temperature: 65-95°F (18-35°C)
• Best Month: Year-round
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Water with stones or well-draining potting soil

Lucky Bamboo is a popular low light indoor plant that is often associated with good luck and positive energy. This plant can thrive in low light conditions, making it suitable for offices or rooms with minimal natural light. Lucky Bamboo is easy to care for, requiring only occasional watering and indirect sunlight. It can be grown in water or soil, making it a versatile option for different indoor environments.

16. Peacock Plant

• Scientific Name: Calathea makoyana
• Family: Marantaceae
• Best Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
• Best Month: Year-round
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining, peat-based soil

The Peacock Plant is a stunning low light indoor plant known for its vibrant, patterned leaves that resemble a peacock’s feathers. This plant thrives in low light conditions, making it perfect for rooms with limited sunlight. Peacock Plants require a bit more care, as they prefer high humidity and consistent moisture. However, their striking appearance and ability to thrive in low light make them a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts.

17. Rubber Plant

• Scientific Name: Ficus elastica
• Family: Moraceae
• Best Temperature: 60-85°F (16-29°C)
• Best Month: Spring to summer
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining potting soil with peat

Rubber Plants are popular low light indoor plants known for their large, glossy leaves. They can thrive in low light conditions, making them suitable for rooms with limited natural light. Rubber Plants are easy to care for, requiring only occasional watering and minimal maintenance. They are also known for their air-purifying abilities, helping to remove toxins such as formaldehyde from the air. With their bold, upright growth habit, Rubber Plants make a striking addition to any indoor space.

18. Bird’s Nest Fern

• Scientific Name: Asplenium nidus
• Family: Aspleniaceae
• Best Temperature: 60-80°F (16-27°C)
• Best Month: Spring to summer
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining, peat-based soil

Bird’s Nest Ferns are unique low light indoor plants known for their wavy, bright green fronds that grow in a rosette pattern. These ferns thrive in low light conditions, making them perfect for shaded rooms or bathrooms. Bird’s Nest Ferns require high humidity and regular watering to stay healthy, but their striking appearance and ability to thrive in low light make them a popular choice for indoor plant lovers.

19. Dieffenbachia

• Scientific Name: Dieffenbachia seguine
• Family: Araceae
• Best Temperature: 60-75°F (16-24°C)
• Best Month: Spring to summer
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining potting soil with perlite

Dieffenbachia, also known as Dumb-Cane, is a popular low light indoor plant known for its large, variegated leaves. This plant can thrive in low light conditions, making it suitable for rooms with minimal natural light. Dieffenbachias are easy to care for, requiring only occasional watering and minimal maintenance. They are also known for their air-purifying abilities, helping to improve indoor air quality by removing toxins from the air.

20. Staghorn Fern

• Scientific Name: Platycerium bifurcatum
• Family: Polypodiaceae
• Best Temperature: 60-80°F (16-27°C)
• Best Month: Spring to summer
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining, peat-based soil or mounted on wood

Staghorn Ferns are unique low light indoor plants known for their antler-shaped fronds that grow in a dramatic, sculptural form. These ferns thrive in low light conditions, making them perfect for shaded rooms or bathrooms. Staghorn Ferns require high humidity and regular watering to stay healthy, but their striking appearance and ability to thrive in low light make them a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts.

21. Corn Plant

• Scientific Name: Dracaena fragrans
• Family: Asparagaceae
• Best Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Best Month: Year-round
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining potting soil with perlite

Corn Plants are popular low light indoor plants known for their tall, upright growth habit and glossy, green leaves. They can thrive in low light conditions, making them suitable for rooms with limited natural light. Corn Plants are easy to care for, requiring only occasional watering and minimal maintenance. They are also known for their air-purifying abilities, helping to remove toxins such as formaldehyde from the air. With their bold, tropical appearance, Corn Plants make a striking addition to any indoor space.

22. Maidenhair Fern

• Scientific Name: Adiantum raddianum
• Family: Pteridaceae
• Best Temperature: 60-75°F (16-24°C)
• Best Month: Spring to early summer
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining, peat-based soil

Maidenhair Ferns are delicate low light indoor plants known for their fine, feathery fronds that add a touch of elegance to any room. These ferns thrive in low light conditions, making them perfect for shaded rooms or bathrooms. Maidenhair Ferns require high humidity and regular watering to stay healthy, but their delicate appearance and ability to thrive in low light make them a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts.

23. Golden Pothos

• Scientific Name: Epipremnum aureum
• Family: Araceae
• Best Temperature: 60-80°F (16-27°C)
• Best Month: Year-round
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining potting mix with perlite

Golden Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is one of the most popular low light indoor plants. Its heart-shaped, variegated leaves and trailing vines make it a versatile option for hanging baskets, shelves, or as a tabletop plant. Golden Pothos is extremely easy to care for and can thrive in low light conditions, making it perfect for offices or rooms with limited sunlight. This plant is also known for its air-purifying properties, removing toxins like formaldehyde and xylene from the air.

24. Kentia Palm

• Scientific Name: Howea forsteriana
• Family: Arecaceae
• Best Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
• Best Month: Spring to summer
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining potting soil with peat

The Kentia Palm is a popular choice for low light indoor plants due to its elegant, arching fronds and ability to tolerate low light conditions. This palm can thrive in environments with minimal natural light, making it suitable for shaded rooms or offices. Kentia Palms are low-maintenance plants that require only occasional watering and can tolerate dry indoor air. They are also known for their air-purifying qualities, helping to remove toxins from your indoor environment.

25. Aglaonema

• Scientific Name: Aglaonema spp.
• Family: Araceae
• Best Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
• Best Month: Spring to summer
• Suitable Potting Mixture: Well-draining, peat-based soil

Aglaonemas, also known as Chinese Evergreens, are some of the best low light indoor plants available. These plants are known for their attractive, variegated leaves and ability to thrive in low light conditions. Aglaonemas are easy to care for, requiring minimal watering and maintenance. They are also known for their air-purifying abilities, helping to improve indoor air quality by removing toxins. With their lush foliage and adaptability, Aglaonemas make a great addition to any indoor space.

Caring Tips For Low Light Indoor Plants

Caring for low light indoor plants can be a rewarding experience, even if you don’t have a naturally bright home. These resilient plants thrive in shaded conditions, making them perfect for offices, apartments, or rooms with minimal sunlight. To help your plants flourish, it’s essential to understand their specific needs and adapt your care routine accordingly. From choosing the right containers and understanding watering schedules to enhancing light conditions and addressing common issues, these tips will ensure your low light indoor plants remain healthy and vibrant all year round.

• Watering: Water your plants only when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in low light conditions.
• Light: Place your plants in areas with indirect light. If natural light is insufficient, consider using artificial grow lights to supplement.
• Humidity: Many low light plants thrive in higher humidity. Mist the leaves regularly or place a humidity tray nearby to maintain moisture levels.
• Soil: Use well-draining potting soil to prevent waterlogging. Adding perlite or sand can improve soil aeration and drainage.
• Temperature: Keep your plants in a stable environment with temperatures between 60-75°F (16-24°C). Avoid placing them near cold drafts or heating vents.
• Cleaning: Dust the leaves occasionally to keep them clean and allow for better light absorption. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe them down gently.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly. During the growing season (spring and summer), use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. In fall and winter, reduce or stop fertilizing.
• Pruning: Trim yellowing or dead leaves regularly to encourage new growth and maintain the plant’s appearance.
• Potting: Repot your plants every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth. Choose a pot with drainage holes to avoid water buildup.
• Pest Control: Check for pests like spider mites or aphids. If spotted, treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent infestation.

Specific Plant Care Tips

• Snake Plant: Snake plants are highly tolerant of neglect and can thrive with minimal watering. They are perfect for low light environments and can survive in areas with indirect or artificial light.
• ZZ Plant: ZZ plants can adapt to low light but perform best in bright, indirect light. They require very infrequent watering, making them ideal for those who might forget to water regularly.
• Pothos: Pothos are hardy plants that do well in low light. To keep them looking their best, rotate the plant occasionally to ensure even growth. Pruning back leggy vines can help encourage a fuller appearance.

Signs Of Overwatering And Underwatering

• Overwatering: Symptoms include yellowing leaves, mushy stems, and a soggy soil surface. If you notice these signs, reduce watering and ensure the plant’s pot has proper drainage.
• Underwatering: If the leaves are brown and crispy at the tips, or if the soil feels completely dry, it’s a sign your plant needs more water. Increase the watering frequency, but avoid overcompensating.

Improving Light Conditions

• Using Mirrors: Positioning mirrors near your plants can help reflect more light onto them, making the most of available sunlight in dim rooms.
• Maximizing Natural Light: Place plants closer to windows during daylight hours, and consider using sheer curtains to filter the light, preventing direct sunlight that could scorch the leaves.

Seasonal Care Adjustments

• Winter Care: During the winter months, most plants enter a dormant phase and require less water. Reduce the frequency of watering and avoid fertilizing, as the plants’ growth slows down.
• Humidity: Indoor heating during winter can reduce humidity, so consider using a humidity tray or a humidifier to keep moisture levels stable for your plants.

Choosing The Right Container

• Drainage: Always choose containers with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom, which can lead to root rot.
• Proper Sizing: Ensure the pot is appropriately sized for your plant. A pot that’s too small can cause the plant to become root-bound, while a pot that’s too large may retain too much moisture.

Common Issues And Solutions

• Leggy Growth: If your plant is growing tall and spindly, it’s likely reaching for more light. Move it to a brighter spot or trim the leggy parts to encourage bushier growth.
• Pest Infestations: Low light plants can sometimes attract pests like spider mites or scale. Regularly check your plants and treat infestations with natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Propagation Tips

• Pothos: Pothos can be easily propagated by cutting a healthy vine just below a node and placing it in water until roots develop. Once the roots are a few inches long, you can plant the cutting in soil.
• Snake Plant: Snake plants can be propagated through leaf cuttings. Cut a healthy leaf near the base, let it dry for a day, and then plant it in soil, watering sparingly until new growth appears.

Air Quality Benefits

• Air Purification: Many low light plants, like snake plants and pothos, are known for their ability to filter indoor air. They can help remove toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene, improving overall air quality.

Decorative Ideas

• Hanging Planters: Use hanging planters to add greenery to rooms with limited floor space. They can be hung near windows or in corners to create a natural focal point.
• Green Corners: Group several low light plants together to create a lush, green corner in your home. Vary the heights and types of plants to add visual interest and texture to the space.

Choosing Low Maintenance Plants

• Beginner-Friendly Options: If you’re new to plant care, consider starting with easy, low-maintenance plants like the ZZ plant, snake plant, or pothos. These plants are resilient and require minimal attention, making them perfect for beginners.