Living in the Shadows: 7 Plants That Thrive in Low-Light Apartments
Don't let a lack of south-facing windows stop you. Discover 7 beautiful houseplants that actually prefer the darker corners of your home.
Living in the Shadows: 7 Plants That Thrive in Low-Light Apartments
One of the most common myths in the plant world is that you need a sun-drenched sunroom to grow a successful indoor garden. For those of us living in urban apartments, basement flats, or homes shaded by tall buildings, “bright indirect light” can feel like an impossible requirement.
The good news? Some of the most stunning tropical plants have evolved to live on the forest floor, where the canopy blocks out nearly all direct sun. These “shadow dwellers” aren’t just surviving in low light—they’re thriving in it.
Here are 7 plants that will bring life to your dimmest corners.
1. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The undisputed king of low-light survival. The ZZ Plant features waxy, emerald-green leaves that reflect what little light is available. It’s also incredibly drought-tolerant, making it perfect for the forgetful gardener.
2. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
True to its name, the Cast Iron Plant is nearly indestructible. It was a staple in Victorian-era homes because it could handle the dim, smoky conditions of the time. Today, it remains one of the best choices for a dark hallway or a corner far from a window.
View Cast Iron Plant Care Guide →
3. Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata)
While the Snake Plant can handle full sun, it is equally happy in low light. It grows more slowly in the dark, but it maintains its structural beauty and continues to purify your air while you sleep.
4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
If you want flowers in a low-light room, the Peace Lily is your best bet. While it needs some light to produce its iconic white spathes, it will maintain lush green foliage in very dim conditions.
5. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
This trailing beauty is incredibly adaptable. In low light, the vines may grow longer with smaller leaves, but it remains a vigorous and elegant addition to any shelf.
View Heartleaf Philodendron Care Guide →
6. Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen)
The Aglaonema is famous for its patterned foliage. As a general rule with this plant: the darker green the leaves, the less light it needs. Avoid the highly variegated or “pink” varieties for your darkest rooms, and stick to the deep green classics.
7. Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)
Unlike many of its finicky fern cousins, the Bird’s Nest Fern is relatively sturdy and thrives in the medium-to-low light levels of a bathroom or kitchen. It loves the extra humidity those rooms provide!
View Bird’s Nest Fern Care Guide →
Pro Tip for Low-Light Gardening
Clean your leaves! In a low-light environment, dust acts like a curtain, blocking what little light reaches the plant’s surface. Wipe your leaves with a damp cloth once a month to ensure your plants can “breathe” and photosynthesize at their maximum capacity.
Happy (low-light) gardening!