25 Best Low Light Indoor Plants That Thrive in Dark Rooms

Understanding Low Light Conditions

Before diving into specific plant recommendations, it is essential to understand what "low light" actually means in the context of indoor gardening. Low light does not mean no light; all plants need some light to survive and photosynthesize. Rather, low light describes areas that receive minimal natural light, typically far from windows or in rooms with north-facing exposure.

In practical terms, low light areas are spaces where you could comfortably read a book during the day without turning on a lamp, but where shadows are soft and indistinct. These might include rooms with small windows, spaces several feet from the nearest window, north-facing rooms in the Northern Hemisphere, or offices and bathrooms with limited natural light.

Plants that tolerate low light have evolved in forest understories where the canopy blocks most direct sunlight. They have adapted larger leaves to capture more light, slower growth rates to conserve energy, and efficient photosynthesis processes. Understanding this helps explain why low light plants typically grow more slowly than their sun-loving counterparts and why they may lose variegation in dim conditions.

For a deeper understanding of light levels and how to measure them in your home, check out our comprehensive guide on understanding plant light requirements.

What Low Light Is Not

An important distinction: low light is different from no light. Windowless rooms, dark closets, and completely shaded corners cannot support plant life long-term. Even the most shade-tolerant plants need some light to survive. If you want plants in truly dark spaces, you will need to supplement with grow lights or rotate plants between dark locations and brighter areas.

Also, "low light tolerant" differs from "low light preferring." Many plants on this list can survive in low light but would actually prefer brighter conditions. In low light, they grow more slowly, may become leggy, and are more susceptible to overwatering because they use resources more slowly. Whenever possible, give even shade-tolerant plants the brightest indirect light your space allows.

Placement Tips for Low Light Plants

Strategic placement can maximize the light your plants receive, even in dim spaces. Understanding how light moves through your home helps you find the best spots for your shade-tolerant plants.

Near North-Facing Windows

In the Northern Hemisphere, north-facing windows receive the least direct sunlight, providing consistent low to medium indirect light throughout the day. This makes them ideal for low light plants. Position plants within a few feet of north-facing windows for the best results.

Interior Rooms with Reflected Light

Even rooms without direct window access can support plants if they receive reflected light from other spaces. Light-colored walls, mirrors, and open floor plans help bounce light into darker areas. Position plants where they can catch this indirect illumination.

Under Artificial Lighting

Regular indoor lighting from lamps and overhead fixtures can supplement natural light for low light plants. While not as effective as sunlight, keeping plants near frequently used light sources provides additional photons for photosynthesis. Consider leaving lights on longer in winter when natural light is scarce.

Avoid Deep Corners

The corners of rooms farthest from windows receive the least light and are challenging even for shade-tolerant plants. If you want plants in corners, choose the most tolerant species and consider supplemental grow lights to keep them healthy.

Plants 1-5: The Easiest Low Light Plants

These five plants represent the most forgiving options for low light conditions. They are perfect for beginners or anyone looking for truly easy-care plants that tolerate neglect and challenging light.

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria/Dracaena trifasciata)

The snake plant is legendary for its tolerance of neglect and ability to survive in almost any light condition, from bright indirect light to the dimmest corners. Its architectural, upright leaves add structure to any space and come in various patterns, from the classic green and yellow banding to silvery-green varieties.

In low light, snake plants grow slowly but remain healthy for years. Their succulent leaves store water, making them extremely drought-tolerant. Water only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-6 weeks depending on conditions. Overwatering is the main threat; these plants rot easily in consistently moist soil.

Snake plants are also excellent air purifiers, removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from indoor air. They release oxygen at night, making them ideal bedroom plants.

2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ plant is another champion of low light tolerance with its glossy, dark green leaves that almost look artificial. Native to East African drought-prone regions, it stores water in thick rhizomes underground, allowing it to survive extended periods without water.

In low light, the ZZ plant maintains its deep green color and attractive appearance, though growth slows significantly. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. In dim conditions, this might mean watering only once a month or less. The biggest mistake is overwatering, which causes rhizome rot.

The ZZ plant is also available in a dramatic black variety called "Raven" with leaves that emerge bright green and mature to a deep purple-black color. Both varieties perform equally well in low light.

3. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

True to its name, the cast iron plant is nearly indestructible. Victorian-era gardeners prized it for its ability to survive in gas-lit parlors with poor air quality and minimal light. Today, it remains one of the toughest houseplants available.

Cast iron plants feature long, lance-shaped dark green leaves that emerge from soil level. They grow slowly even in optimal conditions and barely grow at all in low light, but they maintain their handsome appearance indefinitely. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, and they will reward you with years of trouble-free beauty.

Several variegated varieties exist, but these require more light to maintain their coloring. Stick with solid green varieties for the lowest light conditions.

4. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

Chinese evergreens are prized for their beautifully patterned leaves in shades of green, silver, pink, and red. These tropical plants naturally grow in the shaded understory of Southeast Asian forests, making them well-adapted to indoor low light conditions.

For lowest light situations, choose varieties with more green coloring, such as "Silver Bay" or "Maria." Highly variegated or colorful varieties need more light to maintain their patterns. In low light, Chinese evergreens may revert to greener coloring but remain healthy.

Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. Chinese evergreens prefer slightly more moisture than snake plants or ZZ plants but still suffer from overwatering. They appreciate humidity, so occasional misting or a pebble tray helps in dry environments.

5. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Peace lilies are one of the few flowering plants that bloom reliably in low light, producing elegant white spathes throughout the year. Their glossy, dark green foliage is attractive even when not in bloom, and they are excellent air purifiers.

In low light, peace lilies bloom less frequently but remain healthy and attractive. They are communicative plants that droop dramatically when thirsty, then perk up within hours of watering. While convenient, try not to let them wilt every time, as this stress weakens the plant over time.

Peace lilies prefer consistently moist but not soggy soil and appreciate humidity. They are sensitive to fluoride and chlorine in tap water, which can cause brown leaf tips. Using filtered or distilled water helps prevent this issue. For more on watering properly, see our guide on how often to water houseplants.

Plants 6-10: Elegant Foliage Options

These plants offer more ornamental appeal while still tolerating lower light conditions. They make excellent statement pieces for dim spaces.

6. Dracaena (Various Species)

The Dracaena family includes numerous species that tolerate low light, including the popular "Janet Craig," "Warneckii," and corn plant (Dracaena fragrans). These plants feature long, strappy leaves on cane-like stems, adding vertical interest to any space.

In low light, Dracaenas grow slowly and may lose some variegation on patterned varieties. They prefer to dry out between waterings and are sensitive to fluoride, which causes brown leaf tips. Use filtered water and avoid fertilizers containing fluoride.

Dracaenas can grow quite tall over time, eventually reaching ceiling height. Fortunately, they can be pruned to any height; cut stems will sprout new growth below the cut.

7. Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)

Dieffenbachia features large, tropical leaves splashed with patterns of green, cream, and yellow. These bold plants make impressive statements and tolerate lower light better than many variegated plants.

In low light, Dieffenbachia may lose some variegation and grow more slowly, but it remains attractive. Water when the top inch of soil dries out. The plant is toxic if ingested, causing temporary speechlessness (hence the common name), so keep it away from pets and children.

Dieffenbachia tends to become leggy over time, with leaves dropping from lower stems. Prune back to encourage bushier growth, or propagate the top portion to start a new plant.

8. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

The parlor palm earned its name from its popularity in Victorian parlors, where it thrived despite low light and poor air quality. This elegant palm features delicate, arching fronds that bring a tropical feel to any space.

Unlike many palms that demand bright light, parlor palms genuinely prefer indirect light and can suffer from direct sun exposure. They make excellent office plants and can survive in fluorescent-lit spaces. Water when the top inch of soil dries, and maintain some humidity to prevent brown leaf tips.

Parlor palms grow slowly, reaching about 4 feet at maturity indoors. They are non-toxic and safe around pets, making them ideal for homes with animals.

9. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)

Prayer plants feature strikingly patterned leaves that fold upward at night like hands in prayer. The most common variety displays herringbone patterns in shades of green with red veins, creating an eye-catching display.

While prayer plants tolerate low light, they are more demanding than some other options on this list. They prefer consistent moisture (never soggy) and high humidity. In dry air, their leaf edges brown and curl. Group with other plants or use a humidifier to maintain adequate humidity.

Prayer plants are sensitive to chemicals in tap water. Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater for best results. Their shallow root systems make them excellent candidates for terrariums or group plantings.

10. Calathea (Various Species)

Calatheas are the divas of the low light plant world, boasting some of the most stunning foliage patterns in the plant kingdom but demanding more specific care. Species like Calathea ornata, Calathea medallion, and Calathea lancifolia offer intricate patterns of stripes, spots, and colorful undersides.

These plants prefer low to medium indirect light and actually suffer in bright conditions, which can fade their patterns. However, they demand high humidity (50% or above), consistent moisture, and protection from temperature fluctuations. Use filtered water, maintain humidity with a humidifier or pebble tray, and keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged.

If you are new to plants, master easier species first before attempting Calatheas. But for experienced plant parents in humid climates or willing to invest in humidity control, they offer unmatched beauty for low light spaces.

Plants 11-15: Trailing and Climbing Varieties

These vining plants are perfect for shelves, hanging baskets, or training up supports. They add dimension to your space while thriving in lower light.

11. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Pothos is arguably the most popular houseplant in the world, and for good reason. These trailing vines are nearly impossible to kill, tolerating neglect, low light, irregular watering, and less-than-ideal conditions that would defeat most plants.

In low light, pothos grows more slowly and variegated varieties may revert to solid green, but the plants remain healthy and attractive. Solid green varieties like "Jade" actually prefer lower light. Let the soil dry between waterings; pothos are quite drought-tolerant and quickly show their thirst by wilting, then bounce back after watering.

Pothos can be grown trailing from hanging baskets, climbing up moss poles, or trained along shelves and mantels. They root easily in water, making them perfect for sharing with friends.

12. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)

Often confused with pothos, the heartleaf philodendron features similar trailing vines but with more uniform, heart-shaped leaves in a softer green color. It is equally easy to grow and tolerant of low light and neglect.

Care is essentially identical to pothos: let the soil dry between waterings, provide any light from dim to bright indirect, and watch it thrive. In low light, growth slows but the plant remains healthy and continues to vine attractively.

Several varieties exist, including "Brasil" with yellow-green variegation and "Micans" with velvety, bronze-tinted leaves. Variegated types need more light to maintain coloring but still tolerate medium-low light conditions.

13. English Ivy (Hedera helix)

English ivy brings a classic, elegant look to any space with its lobed leaves and vigorous trailing growth. While it can handle low light, it actually prefers cool temperatures that mimic its native European woodlands.

Keep ivy moist but not waterlogged, and provide good air circulation to prevent fungal problems. Spider mites are common pests on ivy, especially in dry heated air; increase humidity and inspect regularly. English ivy can be invasive outdoors, so keep it contained as an indoor plant only.

Many cultivars exist with varying leaf shapes and colors, from tiny "Needlepoint" to ruffled "Curly Locks." Variegated types need more light than solid green varieties.

14. Grape Ivy (Cissus rhombifolia)

Grape ivy is an underappreciated trailing plant with glossy, three-lobed leaves resembling grape leaves. It was popular in the 1970s and is due for a comeback thanks to its extreme tolerance of low light and dry air.

Unlike true ivy, grape ivy is not prone to spider mites and tolerates the warm, dry conditions typical of modern homes. Water when the top inch of soil dries, provide low to medium indirect light, and enjoy this easy-going plant trailing from shelves or climbing a support.

The closely related "Ellen Danica" variety features more deeply cut, oak-shaped leaves and is equally easy to grow.

15. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Spider plants are classic houseplants known for producing cascading "babies" on long stems, perfect for hanging baskets. They tolerate a wide range of conditions, including low light, though they grow more robustly with brighter indirect light.

In low light, spider plants produce fewer babies and grow more slowly, but they maintain their fountain-like growth habit. They are quite drought-tolerant thanks to their thick, fleshy roots but appreciate regular watering during the growing season. Brown tips are common and usually caused by fluoride or chlorine in tap water.

Spider plants are non-toxic and safe around pets, though cats sometimes find the trailing leaves irresistible to play with. They are excellent air purifiers and among the easiest plants to propagate.

Plants 16-20: Unique and Unusual Choices

For those seeking something different, these low light tolerant plants offer unusual textures, forms, or growth habits.

16. Peperomia (Various Species)

Peperomias are a diverse group of compact plants with varied leaf shapes and textures. From the round, coin-like leaves of watermelon peperomia to the crinkled texture of peperomia caperata, there is a peperomia for every taste.

Most peperomias tolerate low to medium light and have thick leaves that store water, making them forgiving of irregular watering. Let the soil dry between waterings and avoid overwatering, which causes root rot. Their compact size makes them perfect for desks and small spaces.

Highly variegated varieties need more light, but solid green types like peperomia obtusifolia thrive in lower light conditions.

17. Rex Begonia (Begonia rex)

Rex begonias feature some of the most elaborate, colorful foliage in the plant world, with swirling patterns of silver, pink, purple, and green. While they prefer bright indirect light, they tolerate lower light better than many colorful plants.

These begonias are more challenging than most plants on this list, requiring consistent moisture, high humidity, and protection from temperature extremes. In low light, colors may be less vibrant, but the striking patterns remain. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged, and provide humidity through grouping, pebble trays, or humidifiers.

Rex begonias are excellent terrarium plants where their humidity needs are easily met.

18. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)

Despite its name, lucky bamboo is not actually bamboo but a type of Dracaena. It is famous for growing in water without soil and tolerating extremely low light conditions, making it popular in offices and windowless bathrooms.

Lucky bamboo can be grown in water indefinitely, with occasional liquid fertilizer to provide nutrients. Change the water every few weeks to prevent stagnation. It can also be grown in soil like other houseplants. Avoid direct sunlight, which scorches the leaves; this is one plant that genuinely prefers shade.

The stalks can be trained into spirals and shapes, and multiple stems are often braided together for decorative effect.

19. Nerve Plant (Fittonia)

Nerve plants feature small, delicate leaves traced with contrasting veins in white, pink, or red. These compact plants are perfect for terrariums, dish gardens, or small pots in low light areas.

Fittonias are dramatic plants that wilt dramatically when thirsty, then recover quickly after watering. While convenient, try to water before they collapse, as repeated wilting stresses the plant. They demand high humidity and suffer in dry air, making them challenging in many homes but perfect for terrariums where humidity stays high.

Their low growth habit and tolerance of fluorescent lighting make nerve plants popular for office desks and terrariums.

20. Aluminum Plant (Pilea cadierei)

The aluminum plant features quilted leaves with silvery metallic patches that look almost like paint. This compact plant grows to about 12 inches tall and tolerates low to medium light conditions well.

Care is straightforward: provide low to medium indirect light, water when the top inch of soil dries, and pinch back growing tips to maintain a bushy shape. Without pinching, aluminum plants tend to become leggy and sparse.

The related Pilea "Moon Valley" features deeply textured leaves with bronze undersides and similar care requirements.

Plants 21-25: Ferns and Palms

These feathery-leaved plants add soft texture and a woodland feel to dim spaces.

21. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

The Boston fern is a classic houseplant known for its graceful, arching fronds. While it prefers medium indirect light, it tolerates lower light levels better than many ferns, making it suitable for north-facing rooms.

The challenge with Boston ferns is their demand for high humidity. In dry air, fronds turn brown and shed constantly. Mist regularly, use a humidifier, or place on a pebble tray filled with water. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and protect from cold drafts.

If you struggle with Boston ferns, try the more tolerant "Dallas" fern, which handles lower humidity better while maintaining a similar appearance.

22. Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)

Maidenhair ferns feature delicate, lacy fronds on wiry black stems, creating an ethereal, fairy-garden effect. They are among the most beautiful ferns but also among the most challenging to grow indoors.

These ferns demand consistent moisture and very high humidity. Let the soil dry even slightly, and fronds will crisp. Let humidity drop, and fronds will brown. They prefer low to medium indirect light and cool to moderate temperatures. Success often requires a bathroom location or terrarium environment.

For those who can meet their needs, maidenhair ferns are stunning. For everyone else, the similar-looking Delta maidenhair fern (Adiantum raddianum) is slightly more forgiving.

23. Bird's Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)

Unlike feathery ferns, the bird's nest fern features broad, wavy fronds that emerge from a central rosette, resembling a bird's nest. Its bold, tropical look differs from typical fern fronds.

Bird's nest ferns tolerate lower light and lower humidity than many ferns, making them more adaptable to home conditions. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged, and avoid getting water in the central rosette, which can cause rot. Direct light scorches the fronds, so stick to low to medium indirect light.

These ferns grow slowly but can eventually reach impressive sizes with fronds over two feet long.

24. Kentia Palm (Howea forsteriana)

The Kentia palm is considered one of the most elegant and easiest palms for indoor cultivation. Its graceful, arching fronds add a sophisticated tropical touch to any room, and it tolerates lower light better than most palms.

Kentia palms prefer to dry out slightly between waterings and can handle some neglect. They grow very slowly indoors but can eventually reach ceiling height. Keep them away from drafts and radiators, which can brown the frond tips.

These palms are expensive due to their slow growth rate in cultivation, but their elegance and tolerance of home conditions make them worth the investment.

25. Lady Palm (Rhapis excelsa)

Lady palms feature fan-shaped fronds divided into narrow segments, creating a distinctive appearance different from feather palms. They are among the most shade-tolerant palms and handle home conditions well.

These slow-growing palms can eventually reach 6-8 feet indoors, forming elegant clumps over time. Water when the top inch of soil dries, maintain moderate humidity, and keep away from direct sun, which burns the fronds. Lady palms are non-toxic and safe around pets.

Their tolerance of low light and dry air makes lady palms excellent choices for homes and offices where other palms struggle.

General Care Tips for Low Light Plants

While individual plants have specific needs, several general principles apply to caring for plants in low light conditions.

Water Less Frequently

Plants in low light photosynthesize less and grow more slowly, using water and nutrients at a reduced rate. Soil takes longer to dry out in dim conditions. Adjust your watering schedule accordingly, always checking soil moisture before watering rather than following a rigid schedule. Overwatering is the most common cause of plant death in low light situations. For detailed watering guidance, see our houseplant watering guide.

Reduce Fertilizer

Similarly, slow-growing plants in low light need less fertilizer. Reduce feeding to half strength and half frequency compared to plants in brighter conditions. Over-fertilizing in low light can damage roots and cause salt buildup since plants cannot use nutrients as quickly.

Keep Leaves Clean

Dust accumulating on leaves blocks light from reaching the photosynthetic cells beneath. In low light situations where every photon counts, keeping leaves clean is especially important. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth monthly, or rinse small plants in the shower periodically.

Rotate Plants Regularly

Even in low light, plants grow toward the light source. Rotating pots a quarter turn every few weeks encourages even growth rather than lopsided leaning toward windows.

Accept Slower Growth

Set realistic expectations for plants in low light. Growth will be slow, and some plants may simply maintain their current size rather than expanding. This is normal and healthy, not a sign of problems. Appreciate the form and foliage you have rather than pushing for rapid growth.

Consider Supplemental Lighting

If your plants struggle even with the best low light choices, consider adding a small grow light. Modern LED grow lights are energy-efficient, compact, and available in styles that blend with home decor. Even a few hours of supplemental light can make a significant difference for borderline spaces.

For comprehensive information on all aspects of indoor plant care, including lighting, watering, and troubleshooting, visit our complete guide to indoor plant care.