Many popular houseplants will flourish even in spaces that feel more “cave” than “sun-drenched loft”— as long as plants and expectations are matched to the light. “A low-light plant would be suitable for a north window or a fairly dark corner,” says the University of Minnesota Extension, “and most low-light plants are grown for their foliage, not flowers”.
This guide covers how to confidently choose winners for those tricky spots, expert strategies for low-light plant care, and when to use a grow light for max vibes and minimal hassle.
What Really Counts as “Low Light” Indoors?
Okay, let’s clear up the confusion: “low light” doesn’t mean no light. If you can read a book, that’s enough for most true low-light plants. The light levels in your home are dependent on which way your windows face— lighting in a room with a north facing window has different lighting than a room with a south facing window. For a deeper dive, Bloomscape has a great article, offering illustrations that break down light levels depending on which direction your windows face.
Illustrations by Bloomscape
Understory plants, those that grow beneath lush tropical canopies, are heroes for these spots. As master gardener Joan Jubela writes for PennState Extension, “plants with darker green leaves are more suited to low-light conditions,” since their extra chlorophyll helps them make the most of what little they get.
How To Choose the Right Plant for Your Low Light Space
1. Match Your Plant to Your Lifestyle
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Forgetful waterer? ZZ plants and Snake Plants tolerate missed waterings and can even handle that seat in the corner where the sun never rises.
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Want drama? Peace lilies and Chinese Evergreens bring out the foliage glam and even bloom occasionally in indirect light.
2. Look for Deep-Green Leaves
Plants with rich, dark green leaves are basically nature’s solar panels. “The dark green color indicates a higher concentration of chlorophyll, essential in capturing light during photosynthesis,” notes Penn State Extension.
3. Size Up the Situation
Is your spot a full-on “back of the bookshelf” zone or just a north-facing window?
Snake Plant, ZZ Plant, and Cast Iron plant have made it through office cubicles and basements everywhere — while Parlor Palms thrive if they get a little bit more.
4. Drainage Over Drama
In low light, plants use less water, making root rot the #1 killer. Pick well-draining soil and always use a pot with drainage holes. Stick your finger in the soil and if the soil is damp, you don’t need to water your plant quite yet. In fact, overwatering invites pests like fungus gnats, so put down the watering can until your plant needs it.
5. Don’t Sleep on Grow Lights
Sometimes, even “low-light” plants appreciate a boost— shorter winter days or zero windows? Soltech’s Grove™ Bar Grow Light slides right onto a bookshelf; Aspect™ Gen 2 Pendant Grow Light looks like modern, sleek home decor and keeps plants happy. With the help of grow lights, you can position plants anywhere indoors.
What Are The Best Low-Light Houseplants To Get?
| Low-Light Plant Name | Care Level | Watering Advice |
| Snake Plant | Easy |
Allow soil to dry out completely before watering. |
| Easy |
Let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely between waterings. |
|
| Easy |
Use distilled water and water until it comes out of the drainage holes. Allow to dry completely between waterings. |
|
| Easy |
Use distilled water and allow soil to dry completely between waterings. |
|
| Easy |
This plant prefers distilled water. |
|
| Easy |
Allow top 2 inches of soil to completely dry between waterings. |
|
| Easy |
Let the top 2 inches of soil to completely dry between waterings. |
Additional Tips for Low-Light Plant Success
Watering: Water less in winter or during cloudy weeks. Wait for soil to get dry-ish, not just the surface.
Fertilizing: Avoid fertilizer unless you see active new growth; feeding in low light can cause more harm than good.
Placement: Rotate pots once a week for even leaf growth.
Are Low Light Plants Right for Your Space?
Bottom line: With a tiny bit of planning and the right plant friends, even your darkest corners can go green. And with a little help from Soltech, you can turn “low light” into “just right”—for you and your plants.
Find more low-light plants to add to your collection (and get essential plant care tips) by checking out our Plant Guide featuring over 80+ houseplants!
FAQ: Low-Light Houseplants
Q: Can any plant really survive in no natural light?
A: Most true low-light plants need at least a little ambient light, but with a Soltech grow light on for 12–16 hours a day, practically any foliage plant can thrive— even in a windowless office.
Q: What’s the best low-light plant for forgetful waterers?
A: The ZZ Plant and Snake Plant are top picks— they thrive on neglect and lash out at overwatering, not missed watering.
Q: Why is my “low light” plant turning yellow or leggy?
A: Too little light can stretch stems and fade the green; a supplemental grow light revives sad foliage fast.
Q: Are variegated plants okay in low light?
A: Not usually. Variegated leaves have less chlorophyll and need more light for healthy growth. Go for classic greens in shadier spots.
