25 Terrific Low-Light Easy-Care Houseplants

Raise your hand if plants in the garden section at the home stores quiver in fear at your approach. Keep it raised if you have tried with all your might to keep plants you have been gifted alive only to watch them fade.

Okay, hands down. You’re not doomed to a plant less existence — you just need to choose greenery that jives with your, er… style.

Enter the low-light houseplant. They can thrive in a dim corner and add life to a muggy bathroom. With proper care (we promise it doesn’t take much), you can be the plant parent you’ve always wanted to be. Here are 25 houseplants that are great options for easy care and low-light, indoor living.

1. Snake plant (Sansevieria)

The snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, has gorgeous multi-hued green leaves. Dracaena trifasciata is a species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae, native to tropical West Africa from Nigeria east to the Congo. It is most commonly known as the snake plant. Not only is this plant not picky about light, but it’s also a serious health booster. The snake plant was among the plants in a NASA study that absorb nasty indoor air pollutants like benzene and formaldehyde. Plus, it absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen at night, making it the perfect plant for a dimly lit bedroom.

Your Sansevieria does not need much water, and overwatering can cause the plant to rot. Be sure to keep the leaves dry when watering and allow the soil to dry in between waterings.

2. ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

If you like plants with a little shine and sheen, the ZZ plant could be for you. It loves bright to moderate indirect light. But it made the list because it can survive in low light, too. Zamioculcas zamiifolia has been around for centuries, originating in drought-prone Africa (where it thrives outdoors). A couple of decades ago, Dutch nurseries located in South Africa saw the plant’s propagating potential and in 1996 started distributing it around the world. Since then, ZZ plants have entered hearts, homes, and offices worldwide.

You’ll know if it’s getting too much light because its leaves actually curl away from light that’s too harsh. If you have a reputation as a plant killer, the ZZ could change your luck. It’s low maintenance and only needs occasional watering. Any well-drained potting soil will do. As for feeding it, apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer (20-20-20) once a month when watering.

3. Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema)

Aglaonema is a genus of flowering plants in the arum family, Araceae. They are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and New Guinea. They are known commonly as Chinese evergreen’s and have beautiful two-toned leaves that are hard to miss and bring color to dark corners. There are several varieties from which to choose. They range from those with reddish highlights to unique varieties with silvery leaves. This indoor beauty likes warm, moist climates with well-drained, slightly acidic potting soil is perfect for aglaonemas. Water thoroughly in the summer and mist the plant often to raise the humidity. During the winter, reduce watering, but do not let the plant dry out completely.

These plants do not like cold drafts or temperatures below 65 degrees. Be sure to keep it away from drafty windows or vents and the warmer the spot you can find, the better. You’ll need moderate year-round temperatures to keep it happy.

4. Dumb cane (Dieffenbachia)

Dieffenbachia is a genus of tropical flowering plants in the family Araceae. It is native to the New World Tropics from Mexico and the West Indies south to Argentina For the record, the dumb cane is usually called by its botanical name Dieffenbachia. This one’s brightly colored, two-toned leaves can reach up to 1-foot long. This glossy plant prefers bright, indirect light, but it can still thrive in low light.

The most common problem with growing dumb cane dieffenbachia is too much moisture. Overwatering is a common problem with many houseplants and the dieffenbachia houseplant is no exception. Plant the dumbcane in well-draining soil and water lightly, keeping the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Check the soil to make sure it is dry an inch down before watering the dieffenbachia plant

FYI: Beware that this is a dangerous plant for pets and people and can cause poisoning and blindness in children. Best to keep it out of reach!

5. Staghorn fern (Platycerium alcicorne)

Platycerium alcicorne is a species of staghorn fern native to Madagascar, the Seychelles and Comoros Islands, as well as Mozambique and Zimbabwe The aptly named staghorn fern is a low-light plant that works both indoors and out. Its leaves look similar to its namesake. They eventually turn brown and whither before they’re replaced by new growth. They need moderate to low light with moderate moisture. Good staghorn fern care requires frequent watering, but allow the plant medium to dry out in between. Fertilize them once per month with a 1:1:1 ration fertilizer diluted in water. The plant is prone to black spot, which is a fungal disease. Do not water over the foliage and minimize humidity indoors to prevent the disfiguring spores.

The staghorn fern doesn’t need typical potting soil. It’s epiphytic. That’s a technical way to say they grow on vertical surfaces like on a tree trunk. When indoors they can be mounted in a basket or plank with a small amount of compost or peat.

6. Lucky bamboo (Dracena sanderiana)

Dracaena sanderiana is a species of flowering plants in the family Asparagaceae, native to Central Africa. It was named after the German–English gardener Henry Frederick Conrad Sander All houseplant serial killers should give this one a try. If you’re familiar with feng shui, chances are you’ve heard of lucky bamboo.

Lucky bamboo can survive in soil or water alone. Tips for growing bamboo in water.

Right off we know that many Dracaenas experience fluoride problems, and where does most of the fluoride problems come from? Our water… use good clean pure water, try to stay away from the tap water. I like to use distilled water or bottled water.

If you’re going to use tap water, let it sit out overnight to allow the chlorine to evaporate. It won’t remove the fluoride, but the chlorine can also damage the plants. Most of the care recommends changing the water every 3-7 days, so you can see that good water is important for these plants to do well.

They generally prefer moderate amounts of indirect sunlight. However, too much light is far more harmful than too little with this one. The leaves of the lucky bamboo are slightly toxic. They should be kept away from young children and pets.

7. English ivy (Hedera helix )

Hedera helix, the common ivy, English ivy, is a species of flowering plant in the family Araliaceae, native to most of Europe and western Asia In the great outdoors, English ivy acts as ground cover. It can scale buildings and trees up to 98 feet (about 30 meters) high. When potted, the leaves drape below the plant. This makes it a popular choice for hanging baskets or pots set up high so the leaves can cascade down a wall or bookshelf. English ivy loves shade and low-lit areas. Potted ivy prefers moist, humid conditions, but not soaking. Don’t let the soil dry out and keep it evenly moist. Try frequently mist your ivy for the best results, especially during dry winters. The only caveat is that its soil needs to be well-drained, as it prefers soil that’s dry to the touch.

8. Spider plant

(Chlorophytum comosum)

Chlorophytum comosum is a species of perennial flowering plants. It is native to tropical and southern Africa but has become naturalized in other parts of the world, The plant is better known as a spider plant… This easy-to-manage friend sprouts new spider plants (aka pups) that look like tiny spiders at the end of its narrow, elongated leaves. Hence the name. These plants also made NASA’s list for air-purifying indoor plants, so they’re a beautiful and healthy addition to the home. Be ready to water regularly. Spider plants grow fast and prefer consistent moisture.

9. Heart-leaf philodendron

(Philodendron scandens)

Philodendron hederaceum is a species of flowering plant in the family Araceae, native to Central America and the Caribbean Heart-shaped leaves that change from bronze to a glossy green make this a popular houseplant. Unless you want the plant to grow long or climb, you need to regularly pinch the stems.

The heart-leaf doesn’t mind a dry climate, but you’ll want to give it an occasional misting to keep it happy.

FYI: This one is also toxic to pets.

10. Monstera

(Monstera deliciosa)

Monstera deliciosa, is a species of flowering plant native to tropical forests of southern Mexico, south to Panama. The monstera is often mistaken for the split-leaf philodendron. They’re often called the Swiss cheese plant because its glossy tropical leaves often have holes in them.

Monstera leaves grow big and wide so it needs a larger space to thrive. Give the monstera low light and moderate temperatures, and you’ll have a content (and unique) plant.

Water Monstera moderately and evenly, about once a week. Wait until the soil is fairly dry before watering again. Keep in a fairly humid environment. To curb excessive growth, avoid re-potting too often and prune regularly by pinching off new growth.

FYI: This one is poisonous. Use care around children and pets.

11. Cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior)

Aspidistra elatior, the cast-iron-plant or bar-room plant, also known in Japanese as haran or baran is a species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae, native to Japan and Taiwan. The cast iron plant is about as tough as its namesake. It’s not as flashy as other plants, but it makes up for it in ease of care. This hardy plant grows slowly but doesn’t mind low light and won’t shrivel up if you forget to water it for a while.

Do not allow the root system to stay wet and soggy. However, keep the soil moist at all times. Evenly moist but not constantly wet is the ideal way to water this plant, although it will survive forgotten waterings. Aspidistra does handle dry air and low humidity but does best with some air moisture.

12. Maidenhair fern (Adiantum raddianum)

A deciduous, clump-forming, perennial fern is native to the tropical Americas and West Indies.  Genus name comes from the Greek word adiantos meaning unwetted in reference to the water repellent foliage.  The maidenhair fern is for those truly dedicated to their houseplants. However, the feathery leaves and bright appearance make its high-maintenance worth it. The maidenhair fern quickly wilts in direct sunlight. It requires misting at least twice a day (or more if you live in a dry climate) and may even need a humidifier in the driest of conditions. If grown as a houseplant, it does well if kept in bathrooms.

13. Zebra Plant (Calathea)

Calathea is a genus of plants belonging to the family Marantaceae. There are several dozen species in this genus. Native to the tropical Americas, many of the species are popular as pot plants due to their decorative leaves and, in some species, colorful inflorescences. The most common are the zebra plant, rattlesnake plant, and peacock plant. You have to keep the temperature and humidity fairly high with these guys. Water every 1-2 weeks and adjust the frequency depending on the light levels provided. Allow soil to half-dry out before watering. Soil should be almost dry about 2” down They like shade, but not the darkest of conditions. They’re a little finicky but well worth the work for their gorgeous striped leaves.

14. Anthurium (Anthurium)

The Anthurium genus is native to the Americas, where it is distributed from northern Mexico to northern Argentina and parts of the Caribbean. What’s not to love about brightly colored anthuriums? Anthurium actually describes a long list of plants — we’re talking about 1,000 — from the araceae family (also known as the arum family). Anthurium is a genus of herbs often growing as epiphytes on other plants. Some are terrestrial. The leaves are often clustered and are variable in shape.

The more light that the plant receives, the more it will grow, but never expose it to direct sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season from spring through the end of summer. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry before watering again. Overall, this plant isn’t super picky about humidity, but you have to be careful not to overwater.

FYI: This one is toxic to humans and pets.

15. Rex begonia (Begonia rex )

Begonia is a genus of perennial flowering plants in the family Begoniaceae. The genus contains more than 1,800 different plant species. The Begonias are native to moist subtropical and tropical climates. The rex begonia is a little out of the ordinary. Depending on the variety, they can have swirling leaves in odd shapes and bright colors. Today’s rex begonias are often hybrids bred for a specific leaf shape or color. They form flowers, but the flowers aren’t that impressive in comparison to the leaves. 

It can be challenging to find just the right conditions for rex begonia to display its best leaf color. Ideal daytime temperatures are around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, nighttime temperatures around 60 degrees, and a constant humidity level around 50 percent. Provide the plant with plenty of bright indirect sun, but keep it out of direct sunlight. Rotate the plant frequently to expose it to equal light on all sides.

The rex begonia prefers consistent watering. The soil should feel dry, but don’t wait until the leaves start to brown or you could have trouble.

FYI: This plant, and especially its roots, are dangerous to pets.

16. Peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii)

Spathiphyllum wallisii is one of approximately 40 species in a genus of tropical evergreens. It was discovered in the late 19th century growing wild in Central America. They grow in moist subtropical and tropical climates In nature, peace lilies live on the forest floor where they’re heavily shaded and receive a consistent dose of water. Those same conditions are exactly what they need indoors too.

Regular house temperatures to slightly on the warm side. Avoid hot or cold drafts. While Spathiphyllum will tolerate very low light, without some brightness from a window or a lamp, they are unlikely to bloom much, if at all. Ideally, keep the soil evenly moist (not wet!)

Their beautiful flowers make them a colorful addition to any home, and they’ll continue to bloom on and off throughout the year.

17. Creeping fig (Ficus pumila)

Ficus pumila, commonly known as the creeping fig or climbing fig, is a species of flowering plant in the mulberry family, native to East Asia (China, Japan, Vietnam) and naturalized in parts of the southeastern and south-central United States.

The creeping fig drapes beautifully and is fairly easy to maintain. It’s known for its rapid growth and its ability to cover unsightly walls and fences. It’s also hardy enough to survive in almost any light. That dark shadowy corner of your living room will do just fine.

For proper indoor creeping fig care, the soil should be kept moist but not overly wet. It is best to check the top of the soil before watering. If the top of the soil is dry, it needs to be watered. You will want to fertilize your creeping fig in the spring and summer about once a month

You have to keep this plant pruned because it’s kind of like the ugly duckling in reverse. The leaves are attractive to start but can dull over time.

18. Ponytail palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)

Beaucarnea recurvata, the elephant’s foot or ponytail palm, is a species of plant in the family Asparagaceae, native to the states of Tamaulipas, Veracruz, and San Luis Potosí in eastern Mexico. Despite its common name, it is not closely related to the true palms. Need a plant that thrives off neglect? Look no further than the ponytail palm. They do best in bright, indirect sunlight but will survive in low light too.

For potted indoor plants, water a ponytail palm during the growing season every seven to 14 days. The bulbous stem stores water, so be careful not to overwater it. During the winter season, cut back watering to monthly.

19. Bird’s nest fern (Asplenium nidus)

Asplenium nidus is an epiphytic species of fern in the family Aspleniaceae, native to tropical southeastern Asia, eastern Australia, Hawaii, Polynesia, Christmas Island, India, and eastern Africa. If you’re looking for a quick way to spruce up your bathroom decor, consider this friendly fern. In their natural habitat, they’re found high up in rainforest trees.

Avoid watering the center of the plant (the rosette) because it acts as a cradle and can cause the plant to rot. Test the moisture level by sticking a finger an inch into the soil. Give the plant plenty of humidity by occasionally misting the fronds with a water bottle. The bird’s nest fern prefers warm temperatures and high humidity so it makes a great shower buddy.

20. Dragon tree (Dracaena marginata)

Dracaena draco or, the Canary Islands dragon tree is a subtropical tree native to the Canary Islands, Cape Verde, Madeira, western Morocco, Low-light indoor trees like the dragon tree bring heft and height to a room. Its red-edged leaves are super easy to grow, so even beginners are likely to see success.

Pick a dim corner and give the dragon tree some space. When grown indoors, they generally reach about 6 feet in height. It can go for a long time without water. If remembering to water isn’t your strength, you may have found your match. Bright conditions with shade are suitable for the dragon plant. Direct sunlight will damage the leaves.

Keeping the soil slightly moist is the best indicator of correct watering. During the winter, like most plants, they need much less.

FYI: This one, if ingested, is toxic to pets and children.

21. Prayer plant (Maranta leuconeura)

Maranta leuconeura, also known as prayer plant, is a species of flowering plant in the family Marantaceae, native to the Brazilian tropical forests.

During the growing season, water it frequently and never allow the potting soil to dry out. Water the prayer plant when the top of the potting soil is just starting to become dry. These plants are very susceptible to drought; however, to avoid fungal problems, do not let water sit directly on the leaves or let the plant get soggy. Insufficient water and overwatering can cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop from the plant. When watering, use water that is at least at room temperature if not slightly warm. In the winter months, reduce watering.​

You’ll also need to prune them a few times a year. Keep in mind that prayer-plants aren’t a short-term commitment. If well cared for, they’ve been known to live for up to 30 years.

22. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Epipremnum aureum is a species of flowering plant in the arum family Araceae, native to Mo’orea in the Society Islands of French Polynesia. Pothos can survive in everything from dim light to fluorescent light only. Whether in your cubicle or bedroom, the pothos will survive. 

Pothos like to have their soil dry out completely between waterings. If left continually in damp soil, the roots will rot. Black spots on the leaves and the sudden collapse of the plant indicate the soil has been kept too wet. Let the plant tell you when to water—when it starts to droop, it needs a good drink. However, don’t wait until the leaves start to shrivel or you will lose some leaves. Dry, brown edges mean the plant was kept dry too long.

You’ll need to prune pothos unless you want to grow out of the pot or space.

FYI: Pothos is toxic to pets and mildly toxic to humans.

23. Arrowhead plant (Syngonium podophyllum)

Syngonium podophyllum is a species of aroid, and commonly cultivated as a houseplant. Common names include arrowhead plant, arrowhead vine, Arrowhead philodendron, goosefoot, African evergreen, and American evergreen. The arrowhead’s leaves change shape as the plant grows, which gives you a nice variety. The vines are often used for indoor hanging baskets, but you can also train them to grow up a pole for an indoor topiary.

Good Light Needed They need a moderately lit or brightly lit space. Avoid direct sunlight. Moderate Watering Water really well then wait until the soil has almost dried out before watering again, but be careful not to overwater. In drier months it may need some misting.

24. Aralia ming (Polyscias fruticosa)

Polyscias fruticosa, or Ming aralia, is a perennial plant, dicot evergreen shrub or dwarf tree native to India. Indoor shrub anyone? This tropical plant likes warm climates and doesn’t mind medium, indirect light. But you’ll need plenty of space. Aralia ming can grow to 6 to 7 feet in height when properly cared for. You should prune the aralia ming’s lower stems to help shape the plant as it grows.

Ming Aralia indoors is that it must be kept constantly moist. Even in the winter, when most houseplants need a reduction in the amount of water they receive, this plant’s soil should still be kept consistently moist (but not wet).

25. Moth orchid (Phalaenopsis)

Orchids in this genus are native to India, Taiwan, China, Southeast Asia, New Guinea, and Australia with the majority in Indonesia and the Philippines. The moth orchid (aka the phalaenopsis orchid) actually includes many orchids within the phalaenopsis family. They have small, colorful flowers that come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. It’s elegant AF. This orchid loves bright, indirect light but can handle dim light like a champ. It will flower in the spring and summer, even in a dark corner. They also like some humidity, so they’ll be happiest in wetter climates.

Watering when it begins to dry out, usually every 7 to 10 days. Fertilizing with a fertilizer made for orchids. Repotting when the bloom is finished with a fresh orchid mix.

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