Low Light Houseplants for Dark Homes

Got a dark house and every houseplant you bring in dies? Well suffer no more! I’ve got a list of low light houseplants that will live and even thrive in dark homes plus tips on how to grow them.

Low light houseplants are a great option for people who live in apartments or homes with limited natural light. They can also be a good choice for people who are new to plant care, as they are relatively easy to grow.

There are many different types of beautiful low light houseplants available, so you can definitely find one that fits your style and personality.

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Here are some great low light houseplants:

• Snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata) is a very popular low-light plant because it is so easy to care for. It can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from bright indirect light to very low light. Snake plants are also very drought-tolerant and can handle neglect.
• ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is another easy-care plant that is perfect for low light. It is also drought-tolerant, so you don’t have to worry about over watering it. ZZ plants are known for their dark green leaves with a glossy sheen.
• Philodendron (Philodendron spp.) is a genus of plants that includes many species that are suitable for low light conditions. Some popular philodendrons for low light include the heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron scandens), the philodendron Brasil (Philodendron hederaceum ‘Brasil’), and the philodendron micans (Philodendron micans).
• Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is another popular low-light plant that is known for its trailing vines. Pothos can be grown in hanging baskets or in pots on a table or shelf. There are many different varieties of pothos, each with its own unique leaf color and pattern.
• Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is a very versatile plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions, including low light. Spider plants are known for their long, trailing leaves that can be either green or variegated.
• Cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior) is a very hardy plant that is known for its ability to thrive in low light conditions. Cast iron plants can grow in very dark rooms, but they will do best in a spot with some indirect light.
• Peace lily (Spathiphyllum spp.) is a beautiful plant that is known for its white flowers. Peace lilies prefer bright indirect light, but they can tolerate low light conditions.
• Ferns are a good choice for low-light rooms because they thrive in humid conditions. Some popular ferns for low light include the maidenhair fern (Adiantum raddianum), the Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Bostoniensis’), and the rabbit’s foot fern (Davallia fejeensis).
• Dracaena (Dracaena marginata) – This plant is also known as the Dragon Tree. It has long, narrow leaves that are green with red or yellow margins. The dracaena prefers indirect sunlight, but it can also tolerate low light conditions. It is important to keep the dracaena soil moist, but not soggy.
• Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema commutatum) – This plant has dark green leaves with white or yellow markings. It prefers indirect sunlight, but it can also tolerate low light conditions. The Chinese evergreen is relatively easy to care for and is a good choice for beginners.
• Bromeliad – There are many different varieties of bromeliads, but all of them are epiphytic plants, which means they grow on other plants. They have colorful flowers and leaves that can tolerate low light conditions. Bromeliads are relatively easy to care for, but they do require high humidity levels.

These are just a few of many low light houseplants that you can grow. With so many options to choose from, you are sure to find that perfect plant to brighten up your home, even if you don’t have a lot of natural light.

Best Rooms for Low Light Plants

• Bathrooms – Humid and often dim
• Bedrooms – Peaceful vibe with less light
• Offices – No windows? No problem with the right plants
• Hallways or entryways – Brighten up dull areas

Remember to place these plants in the brightest area possible within the low light environment, as even low light plants will benefit from some indirect sunlight. Also, be mindful not to overwater these plants. They will not dry out as quickly in low light conditions and will sit moist longer which can cause root rot.

Care Tips for Low Light Houseplants

• Avoid Overwatering: Low light means slower growth, so water less frequently. Always check the soil first.
• Dust the Leaves: Dust can block light—wipe leaves monthly to help your plant photosynthesize better.
• Rotate Regularly: Turn plants every few weeks so they grow evenly toward the light.
• Supplement with Grow Lights (if needed): In very dark spaces, a small LED grow light can help.

Remember, just because your home may be on the dark side it doesn’t mean that you cannot grow beautiful houseplants.

Happy Gardening