It can be pretty frustrating to happen upon a gorgeous new plant that you know would look fabulous in that one corner in your living room, only to see the care requirements – bright indirect light. You know that plant will never see a sunbeam in that corner, but the temptation to buy has your debit card twitching in your wallet. Take heart, dear plant friends, there are plants that are equally as phenomenal that are well-suited for that low-light environment.
Sansevieria – “Snake Plant”
There are several varieties, shapes, and colors for Sansevieria a.k.a. snake plants or mother-in-law’s tongue. (Don’t let the latter name dissuade you from giving this plant a shot- this one can’t criticize your cooking.) These plants thrive in low-lit environments and provide an interesting shape and can be quite the conversation piece. They require little care, aren’t fussy about humidity levels; they’re pretty much the perfect house guest.
Zamioculcas Zamiifolia- “ZZ Plant”
Not gonna lie, the first time I saw a Black Raven ZZ Plant in real life, my heart started pounding, the greenhouse dissolved away, and it was just me and this fantastic beauty in the universe. They have the coolest growth pattern, they can grow tall, (my Raven ZZ is about three feet tall now) and they require very little care. It’s actually a little frustrating for the doting plant parents that these plants do not require much, because then you don’t really get to play with them as often. They tolerate low light well, only requiring water every three weeks or so, but dusting their leaves with leaf wipes is pure bliss.
Spathiphyllum Wallisii – “Peace Lily”
Peace Lilies have nearly fifty varieties to choose from, and some people refer to them as the unkillable plant. (I had one once, but we aren’t going to talk about that.) This plant can handle low-lit environments like a champ as long as you keep it adequately hydrated. They are also fairly forgiving in that if you do neglect it, it’ll bounce back. The deep green, long leaves are a stunning addition to any corner that needs that little something. This is sure to make that area pop.
Aglaonema – “Chinese Evergreen”
This magnificent plant has fascinating leaf patterns and colors. Some are green with white, some are pink with green (which is kind of a fun 80’s fashion throwback, in my opinion), and there are so many varieties to choose from. This plant is a slow-grower but will be a larger house plant with a wingspan that matches its height of one to three feet. Like other low-light tolerant plants, Aglaonemas do not require much care to stay happy and thriving. However, they do like humidity, so it’s a good idea to consider a plant humidifier or a pebble tray. If that’s a no-go for you, just spritz it with a misting bottle – problem solved.
Monstera
The Monstera plant is a tropical delight that tolerates various lighting, minus direct sunlight as their stunning leaves will burn if put into direct sunlight. (Me too, monstera, me too.) While they perform best in bright, indirect light, they will survive a low-light corner as well. However, the plant might not grow to its full potential. One fascinating thing about the Monstera is their leaves will intentionally split and look like they have fingers or have holes in the leaves like the swiss cheese Monstera. Very cool plant.
Epipremnum aureum – Pothos
Last but not least, Pothos. If you like plants with variegated leaves, the Marble Queen Pothos will not disappoint you. Their leaves are green with white streaking throughout. This is one of the easiest and most rewarding plants that deserves a spot in any collection. Now, while the any Pothos doesn’t require doting, they also don’t mind it. These plants will vine and can get to be six feet or longer, or you can keep them trimmed for a fuller plant.
The list above is not exclusive; there are many other types of plants that can tolerate low light and be a wonderful addition to your house plant collection. If you have questions or aren’t sure if your new plant baby will be happy in the corner, take a picture, tag us on social media, and we’ll be glad to offer our input. Also, for your viewing pleasure, visit our website for more low-light plants and their care tips. You can also ask questions right there on the website. https://plantproper.com/collections/low-light-plants. Let us know how it’s going! We are excited to grow with you!
