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⬅INDOOR PLANT CARE

Best Low Light Indoor Plants: 5 Resilient Species for Darker Spaces 

Written by Naya Prokopiou

Last updated: Dec 18, 2024 • 5 min read 


Are you searching for plants that can thrive in those dim corners of your home? While many indoor plants are marketed as "low light loving," here's a crucial truth every plant parent should know. 

The Low Light Myth 

Let's clear up a common misconception: there's no such thing as a "low light loving" plant. All plants need light to photosynthesize and grow. What we actually mean when we say "low light plants" are species that can tolerate lower light conditions better than others. Think of them as the survivors of the plant world – they can adapt to less-than-ideal conditions, but they won't thrive or grow to their full potential without adequate light.

In nature, these plants typically grow under dense forest canopies where they've evolved to photosynthesize efficiently in filtered light. While they can survive in low light indoor settings, they'll grow slower, produce smaller leaves, and may become leggy over time. For optimal growth, even these tolerant plants prefer bright, indirect light.


Jump to section

1. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
3. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
4. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
5. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Care Tips for Low Light Plants
Plant Care with Naya Prokopiou
low light houseplant myth
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

1. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) 

Meet the ultimate survivalist of indoor plants. The ZZ Plant has earned its reputation as nearly indestructible, thanks to its thick, potato-like rhizomes that store water and nutrients. With glossy, dark green leaves that look almost artificial in their perfection, this plant brings a touch of tropical elegance to any space.


Originally from Eastern Africa, the ZZ Plant evolved to survive long periods of drought and low light under forest canopies. In your home, it can tolerate everything from bright indirect light to those darker corners where other plants fear to grow. However, remember: while it survives in low light, it thrives in brighter conditions.

Master the Zz plant care with this [Zamioculcas zamiifolia Plant Care] guide.

Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) 

Standing tall and proud, the Snake Plant is a masterpiece of adaptation. Its sword-like leaves, often adorned with striking patterns, aren't just for show – they're incredibly efficient at photosynthesizing in less-than-ideal conditions. This architectural beauty has been enhancing indoor environments long before it became fashionable.

Native to West Africa, Snake Plants are masters of survival, capable of thriving in conditions that would make other plants wilt. While they'll survive in your dim hallway, placing them in brighter light will reward you with more vigorous growth!

Learn everything you need to know about snake plants with this [Sansevieria (Snake Plant) Full Guide]

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

3. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) 

If you're looking for a plant that combines resilience with beauty, the Chinese Evergreen offers a perfect blend of both. With varieties having leaves in shades of green, silver, and even pink, these plants are living proof that low light tolerant doesn't mean boring.

Found naturally in the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Aglaonemas have adapted to life on forest floors. Their large, often patterned leaves are designed to capture whatever light filters through the canopy above. In your home, they'll grace those challenging spots with their presence while adding a tropical flair.

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

4. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) 

The beloved Pothos is perhaps the most versatile plant on our list. This trailing beauty can transform any space with its cascading vines and heart-shaped leaves. While it's commonly recommended for low light areas, you might be surprised to learn how much better it performs in brighter conditions.

If you're interested in plants that truly flourish in abundant light, check out the [Bright Light Loving Plants] guide, where you'll discover species that will thrive in your sunniest spots!

Ready to make your pothos thrive? Read more here [Pothos (Epipremnum) Complete Care Guide]

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

5. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) 

Last but certainly not least, the Peace Lily brings both elegance and air-purifying properties to your space. With its glossy dark green leaves and iconic white blooms, this plant has been a favorite among indoor gardeners for generations.

While Peace Lilies are famous for tolerating low light, here's a pro tip: the more light they receive, the more likely they are to produce their stunning flowers. In lower light, they'll survive and maintain their beautiful foliage, but you might miss out on those characteristic blooms.


Care Tips for Low Light Plants 

  • Adjust watering: Plants in lower light need less water as they photosynthesize less

  • Monitor for signs of insufficient light: leggy growth, smaller leaves, or fewer variegations

  • Rotate plants periodically to ensure even growth

  • Clean leaves regularly to maximize light absorption

  • Consider [artificial grow lights] during darker months

Remember, while these plants can tolerate low light conditions, they'll always perform better with more brightness. If you notice your plant struggling, try gradually moving it to a brighter location or supplementing with artificial light.

Plant Care with Naya Prokopiou

Plant enthusiast Naya Prokopiou, with years of knowledge, shares houseplant care tips to help others create thriving indoor gardens, craft unique terrariums, and transform their spaces into living works of nature art.

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