Hi, I’m here to share everything I’ve learned about the best low light indoor plants.
Welcome to my little green corner, where shadows meet leaves and thrive together.
A few years ago, I moved into a small apartment with barely any natural light. I thought my dreams of lush indoor greenery were over. But that changed when I discovered the best low light indoor plants — tough, beautiful varieties that didn’t need direct sun to thrive.
What started with a couple of snake plants and pothos turned into a full-blown obsession. These plants weren’t just surviving in the shade — they were thriving. And that’s how LumaPlants began — to help others turn dim corners into leafy sanctuaries.
In this complete guide, I’ll walk you through the best low light indoor plants, explain why they’re ideal for dark rooms, how to care for them, and how to style them to fit your home’s personality — no matter how little sun you get.
Whether you’re dealing with a dark office, a low-light bathroom, or a cozy apartment bedroom, you’ll find the perfect plant for your space here.
Check out our guide to large low light indoor plants for bigger, bolder plant picks.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why Low Light Indoor Plants Are Perfect for Your Home
What’s a Low-Light Room, Really?
Not every room gets sunlight — but that doesn’t mean it can’t be green. A low-light space typically receives minimal indirect sunlight. This includes rooms with north-facing windows, shaded corners, or areas blocked by curtains or buildings. Many of the best low light indoor plants are actually built for these conditions — they’ve adapted to thrive where sun is scarce.
If you can walk into a room during the day and still see clearly without turning on a light, you’ve likely got enough brightness for these plants to do well.
Why Choose the Best Low Light Indoor Plants?
There’s a reason more people are turning to low light houseplants. Whether you’re in a studio apartment or a cozy home office, the best low light indoor plants offer the perfect balance of beauty and resilience. Here’s why:
- Apartment-friendly – These plants are made for life in smaller spaces with limited sunlight.
- Easy to maintain – Many low light plants require less frequent watering and care.
- Improve indoor air – Several of the top shade-tolerant plants are known for purifying air and reducing toxins.
- Stylish and flexible – From hanging planters to bathroom shelves, they fit anywhere.
And the best part? You don’t need to be an expert. Even beginners can succeed with the best low light indoor plants, especially when you choose hardy varieties like snake plants, ZZ plants, or pothos.
Top 8 Best Low Light Indoor Plants
Finding the best low light indoor plants isn’t about settling — it’s about choosing greenery that naturally thrives where the sun barely shines. These 10 plants are not just survivors — they’re interior design statements and air purifiers wrapped in leafy elegance.
Snake Plant: Built for the Shadows
Also known as Sansevieria, the snake plant is one of the toughest indoor plants. It doesn’t mind being ignored, needs very little water, and tolerates low light better than most. Its tall, upright leaves make it a sleek addition to corners and hallways.
ZZ Plant: Glossy, Bold, and Low Light Loving
The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a go-to for beginners. Its waxy, dark green leaves reflect even the smallest amount of light, giving it a constant healthy glow. It thrives in shade and neglect — just keep it away from overwatering.
Pothos: Vining Versatility
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) grows easily in dark rooms and trails beautifully from shelves or hanging baskets. It’s one of the best indoor plants for low light, especially in bathrooms or offices. Bonus: it’s a top air-purifying plant too.
Peace Lily: Beauty + Function
The peace lily isn’t just graceful — it’s known for removing toxins from the air. It does well in low light, though it may bloom less frequently. Its white flowers and rich green leaves make it a calm, clean choice for shaded rooms.
Cast Iron Plant: As Tough as It Sounds
If you tend to forget your plants, this one’s for you. The Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) earned its name by tolerating extreme neglect, low light, and low humidity. It’s slow-growing, but nearly indestructible.
Chinese Evergreen: Color in the Shadows
Chinese Evergreens offer colorful leaves — silvers, greens, even reds — and do well in darker conditions. They’re often listed among the best low light indoor plants for their beauty and easy care. Just avoid cold drafts.
Dracaena: Sculptural and Sleek
There are many varieties of Dracaena, and most handle low light well. Their upright form adds structure to corners, entryways, or beside desks. Choose a darker-leaved variety for best performance in dim spaces.
Spider Plant: Easygoing Classic
Spider plants are forgiving and adapt well to different conditions. They like indirect light but tolerate low light too. Their hanging pups make them perfect for shelves or hanging pots.
Unique Low Light Plants for Dark Rooms
Looking for more than the usual suspects? Some of the best low light indoor plants aren’t just tough — they’re truly unique. These plants bring color, structure, and charm to spaces where sunlight barely peeks in, making them ideal for creative interior design and moody corners.
Cast Iron Plant: Classic and Nearly Unkillable
True to its name, the Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) is one of the most resilient indoor plants. It thrives in dark rooms, needs almost no attention, and grows slowly with minimal fuss. With its deep green leaves and upright form, it adds structure and calm to bedrooms or hallways.
If you’re new to shade gardening or forget to water regularly, this plant is your perfect match.
Chinese Evergreen: Low Light Doesn’t Mean Low Style
The Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) proves that beauty can flourish in the shade. It’s one of the best low light indoor plants for design lovers. With varieties that show off reds, silvers, and greens, this plant brightens up shadowy spaces without a single sunbeam.
Bonus: It handles artificial lighting well, making it ideal for offices and darker apartments.
Other Unique Low Light Plant Stars
Want more variety? These plants thrive in dim environments and stand out from the crowd:
- Prayer Plant (Maranta) – Moves with the light and folds its leaves at night, adding drama.
- Philodendron (Heartleaf) – A vining beauty that trails easily from shelves.
- Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia) – Bold variegation that tolerates soft lighting and adds tropical flair.
Each of these species goes beyond basic green. They make it easy to build an indoor jungle in low light, combining resilience with personality.
Remember, some of the best low light indoor plants are hidden gems — and discovering them is half the fun.
Best Low Light Plants for Dark Rooms & Offices
Ideal Plants for Windowless Rooms
If you’re dealing with a room that barely sees sunlight, don’t worry—you’re not doomed to a dull, plantless space. Several houseplants thrive in dim conditions and are perfect for dark bedrooms, hallways, or basements.
Top low light plants for dark rooms:
| Plant Name | Light Needs | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| ZZ Plant | Very low light | Glossy leaves, drought-tolerant |
| Cast Iron Plant | Shade-tolerant | Tough, low-maintenance |
| Philodendron | Low to medium | Fast-growing, heart-shaped leaves |
| Parlor Palm | Indirect/low | Adds a tropical vibe indoors |
These plants adapt well to artificial light and need little attention, making them ideal if you’re not the greenest of thumbs.
Looking for inspiration? Try ZZ Plants for shadowy spaces.
Best Indoor Plants for Office Desks and Corners
Office spaces are notorious for poor lighting, especially if you’re not near a window. But that doesn’t mean your workspace can’t feel lively.
Here are top performers in dull office corners:
- Pothos (Devil’s Ivy): Extremely forgiving and looks great in hanging pots or trailing off shelves.
- Peace Lily: Needs minimal light, yet blooms beautiful white flowers occasionally.
- Spider Plant: With a reputation for being nearly indestructible, it’s perfect for beginners.
Best Low Light Indoor Plants for Humid Bathrooms
Do Low Light Plants Work in Bathrooms?
Yes—bathrooms are ideal for the best low light indoor plants because they offer consistent humidity with minimal sunlight. Steam from showers creates a moist environment, perfect for plants that thrive in shade and warmth.
But here’s the key: not all low light plants like wet spaces. You need those that enjoy both shade and humidity.
Top Bathroom-Friendly Low Light Plants
Looking to refresh a gloomy bathroom? Try these best low light indoor plants that don’t mind the dark:
| Plant | Perks in Bathrooms |
|---|---|
| Peace Lily | Low light + high humidity = perfection |
| Boston Fern | Thrives in steamy spaces |
| Pothos | Adapts to nearly any light level |
| Philodendron | Happy with minimal sunlight |
These indoor plants for low light and humidity add charm, filter air, and need very little care. Water them less often—humidity does the rest.
Air-Purifying Low Light Indoor Plants You’ll Love
Plants That Clean the Air in Low Light
Not only do the best low light indoor plants survive in dim spaces—they also help clean the air. Some plants can absorb mold spores, formaldehyde, and other indoor toxins, even without direct sunlight.
NASA’s Clean Air Study confirmed that certain air-purifying plants work well in closed environments with low light.
Top Picks for Cleaner, Greener Rooms
Here are top-rated, low-maintenance options that purify air and thrive in shadows:
| Plant Name | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Snake Plant | Removes toxins like formaldehyde |
| Spider Plant | Fights carbon monoxide & mold |
| Peace Lily | Breaks down mold spores (up to 78%) |
| Areca Palm | Humidifies & filters air naturally |
These are among the best low light indoor plants for clean air in bedrooms, offices, or bathrooms.
How to Care for the Best Low Light Indoor Plants
Simple Care Tips That Actually Work
Caring for the best low light indoor plants doesn’t have to be complicated. These plants already thrive in minimal light, but with just a few habits, you’ll help them look great year-round.
- Rotate weekly: Low light means uneven growth. Turn plants every few days so all sides get exposure.
- Less water, more patience: Overwatering is the top killer of indoor shade plants. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Dust the leaves: Dust can block the little light your plant does get. Gently wipe leaves every 2–3 weeks.
Best Tools for Healthy Low Light Plants
You don’t need fancy gear. Here’s what actually helps:
| Tool | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Moisture Meter | Prevents overwatering |
| Grow Light (Low Watt) | Boosts health in deep shade or dark corners |
| Self-Watering Pot | Great for travelers or forgetful plant owners |
With proper care, the best low light indoor plants will keep thriving in offices, bedrooms, and bathrooms—even the ones with no windows.
Common Mistakes When Growing the Best Low Light Indoor Plants
Easy Errors That Can Kill Your Plants
Even the best low light indoor plants can fail if you treat them like sun-lovers. These plants have different needs—and ignoring that leads to problems fast.
- Overwatering: In low light, soil dries slowly. Too much water causes root rot.
- Wrong plant choice: Not all plants labeled “low light” truly thrive in the dark. Pick verified low light species like Snake Plant or ZZ Plant.
- Using the wrong pot: Non-draining pots trap moisture. Always use containers with drainage holes.
How to Avoid These Mistakes
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Overwatering | Water less frequently, check soil first |
| Not enough airflow | Space plants out to reduce mold |
| Skipping rotation | Turn your plant to prevent lopsided growth |
Stick to simple care and choose only the best low light indoor plants that match your space. These small changes can make a big difference.
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Styling Tips with the Best Low Light Indoor Plants
How to Use Plants as Interior Decor
The best low light indoor plants do more than survive—they elevate your space. Even without bright sunlight, these plants add life, color, and structure to rooms that feel dull or tight.
Place taller plants like Snake Plant or Parlor Palm in empty corners to create height. Use trailing plants like Pothos or Philodendron on shelves to add movement and softness.
Design Ideas for Dark Spaces
Here are a few styling tricks to make the most of these hardy plants:
| Design Tip | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Group plants in odd numbers | Creates a more natural, balanced look |
| Use light-colored pots | Adds contrast and brightens dark spaces |
| Vary plant heights | Adds depth and visual interest |
| Place near mirrors | Reflects light and makes the space feel airy |
Styling with the best low light indoor plants blends beauty with function—they clean your air and refresh your décor.
Conclusion: Bring Nature Inside — Even Without the Sun
You don’t need a sun-drenched apartment or a greenhouse window to enjoy the beauty and benefits of indoor greenery. The best low light indoor plants are proof that nature adapts—even in your coziest, dimmest corners. Whether you’re dressing up a dark hallway, adding life to a windowless bathroom, or looking for a leafy roommate in your office cubicle, there’s a low light plant ready to thrive by your side.
These plants not only survive—they flourish with minimal effort, making them perfect for beginners and busy homeowners. From the dramatic leaves of the ZZ plant to the cleansing magic of English Ivy, you now have a solid list of the best low light indoor plants that suit every lifestyle and space. And let’s not forget: many of these plants quietly clean your air, lift your mood, and bring calmness to your home—all while asking for very little in return.
Before you go out and buy your next plant, take a moment to assess the lighting in your room. That’s the first step to choosing the right green companion. Remember: indirect light doesn’t mean “no light,” but with just the right spot and a little care, your new plant will reward you with lasting vitality and natural beauty.
FAQ Section: Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Low Light Indoor Plants
What indoor plants need the least light?
If you’re living in a dim apartment or work in an office without windows, you’re probably wondering what the best low light indoor plants are that can survive in near-dark conditions. Fortunately, several species thrive even in rooms with minimal natural light.
Top choices include:
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) – Practically bulletproof and incredibly low maintenance, this glossy-leaved gem handles shade like a pro.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria) – Known for its upright, sword-like leaves, it’s a champion at tolerating neglect and darkness.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) – With trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, pothos will keep growing in corners that rarely see sunlight.
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) – True to its name, it’s one of the most durable low light houseplants available.
These are easily among the best low light indoor plants due to their adaptability and resilience.
What is the best house plant for a dark room?
When choosing a houseplant for a dark room, like a north-facing bedroom or a windowless hallway, you want something that not only survives but adds aesthetic appeal. The Peace Lily often tops the list. It blooms even in low light and has broad, elegant leaves that purify the air.
Other strong contenders for the best low light indoor plants in dark spaces include:
Philodendron – Especially the heartleaf variety, known for its compact form and climbing potential.
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) – A vibrant, patterned plant that brightens up even the gloomiest corners.
Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans) – This Victorian-era favorite thrives in shade and is pet-friendly too.
These species are not just survivors; they make your dark room feel alive and more inviting.
What plant removes 78% of airborne mold?
According to NASA’s Clean Air Study, the English Ivy (Hedera helix) is one of the best low light indoor plants when it comes to cleaning indoor air. It can remove up to 78% of airborne mold in just 12 hours, making it an ideal choice for allergy sufferers or people with asthma.
Its ability to thrive in low light areas, especially bathrooms and basements, makes English Ivy both functional and attractive. Pair it with other air-purifying champions like:
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
Not only do these plants handle low light well, but they also boost indoor air quality naturally.
What plant is best for a dark bathroom?
Bathrooms often lack natural sunlight, especially those with frosted or small windows. Fortunately, you don’t have to forgo greenery. The Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) thrives in high humidity and indirect light, making it perfect for steamy bathrooms.
Another solid pick is the Cast Iron Plant, which doesn’t just tolerate low light—it prefers it. For a touch of trailing charm, consider the Pothos, which grows happily even with artificial light.
Here’s a list of best low light indoor plants that love the bathroom life:
| Plant Name | Key Benefit | Light Tolerance |
|---|---|---|
| Boston Fern | Loves humidity, filters air | Low |
| Cast Iron Plant | Very hardy, low maintenance | Very Low |
| Pothos | Trailing, stylish vines | Low |
| Peace Lily | Occasional flowers, air purifier | Low |