16 Low Light Plants That Will Transform Your Dark Spaces 

If you have a room in your home that lacks natural light, it can be a challenge to find plants that will thrive in those conditions. However, there are many low light plants that can bring life and color to your dark spaces. These plants not only improve the look of your home, but they also have a number of benefits for your health and well-being.

In this article, we will introduce you to 16 low light plants that are perfect for brightening up your dark spaces.

First, let’s take a look at the benefits of having plants in your home. Studies have shown that plants can improve air quality, reduce stress, and even increase productivity. As NASA researcher Dr. B. C. Wolverton explains, “Plants absorb gases and release oxygen, which can help to purify the air and reduce the levels of certain pollutants.” In addition to these benefits, plants also add a touch of nature to your home and can make you feel more connected to the outdoors.

Now, before we get to the main event and the list of 16 plants, I have a special exclusive study that I want to share with you, conducted by Indoor Plants Channel.

Case Study: Pothos v. Peace Lily : Head-To-Head Poll

For the longest time, I have been wondering which indoor plant is more popular with regular American people. To find the answer to this, I conducted a survey pitting two of the most popular plants: Pothos and Peace Lily.

This survey was conducted using an advanced surveying platform called “Poll the People”. It’s a straight out A/B (head-to-head) survey that shows the two options to the panel of survey takers. (See what the survey looks like)

Survey Results

The survey results were quite alarming with over 69% of the panelists preferring Peace Lily over Pothos. This was quite a surprise because Pothos are quite popular in their own right. You can see the survey results here.

What was also interesting is the explanation people gave for selecting Peace Lily. Some insightful responses included:

• Looks a lot more graceful and contained than the Photos. I also like how the white flowers pair well with the green leaves
• I think that the peace lily looks much better and that the white flowers are really pretty. It just looks more organized and easier to take care of. The other option just looks bland and generic.
• Peace Lily is more suitable in my house, plus, it resembles to a flower while Pothos is just leaves. Peace Lily will grow vertically while Pothos will spread horizontally, and that doesn’t work for me.

Here is a wordcloud for people who chose Peace Lily. It gives an idea about why this plant is so popular.

It’s important to note that not all plants can thrive in low light conditions. Some plants need a lot of light to photosynthesize and grow, while others are more adaptable and can survive on minimal light. When choosing a low light plant for your home, it’s important to consider the specific needs of the plant and ensure that it has the right amount of light and watering to thrive.

Now, let’s get to the main event: the top 16 low light plants that will transform your dark spaces.

1. Spider Plant

The spider plant is a classic choice for low light conditions. It is known for its long, thin leaves and ability to thrive in a variety of environments. As interior designer Lisa Worth says, “The spider plant is one of the most adaptable plants out there. It can tolerate low light and is also very forgiving if you happen to forget to water it.” In addition to being easy to care for, the spider plant is also great for purifying the air in your home.

2. Philodendron

Philodendrons are another popular choice for low light conditions. These tropical plants are known for their glossy, heart-shaped leaves and ability to grow quickly. According to horticulturalist Tovah Martin, “Philodendrons are among the most foolproof of houseplants. They are virtually indestructible and will thrive in the darkest corners of your home.”

3. Pothos

Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is another low light plant that is easy to care for. It is known for its long, trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves. Pothos is a great choice for hanging baskets or for training to climb a trellis or wall. In addition to being low maintenance, pothos is also great for purifying the air in your home.

4. Snake Plant

The snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, is a popular choice for low light conditions. It is known for its tall, upright leaves and ability to thrive in a variety of environments. According to plant expert Darryl Cheng, “The snake plant is one of the most forgiving houseplants you can grow. It tolerates low light, irregular watering, and even neglect.”

5. ZZ Plant

The ZZ plant is a newer addition to the world of houseplants, but it has quickly become a favorite among plant lovers. It is known for its glossy, dark green leaves and ability to thrive in low light conditions. The ZZ plant is also very drought-tolerant, making it a great choice for those who may forget to water their plants.

6. Peace Lily

The peace lily is a beautiful flowering plant that is well-suited to low light conditions. It is known for its white, showy flowers and lush green leaves. According to plant expert Lisa Eldred Steinkopf, “The peace lily is one of the best plants for purifying the air. It is also very easy to care for and will thrive in low light conditions.”

7. Cast Iron Plant

As its name suggests, the cast iron plant is a tough and durable plant that can thrive in low light conditions. It is known for its long, narrow leaves and ability to tolerate a wide range of temperatures. The cast iron plant is a great choice for those who may not have a green thumb, as it is very forgiving and low maintenance.

8. Ferns

There are many types of ferns that can thrive in low light conditions, including the Boston fern and the bird’s nest fern. Ferns are known for their delicate, lacy leaves and ability to add a touch of nature to any space. According to plant expert Joy Us Garden, “Ferns are one of the oldest plants on earth and are known for their ability to purify the air. They are also very easy to care for and will thrive in low light conditions.”

9. Coleus

Coleus is a colorful and vibrant plant that can add a pop of color to your dark spaces. It is known for its variegated leaves and ability to tolerate low light conditions. According to plant expert Katie Dubow, “Coleus is a great plant for adding a splash of color to your home. It is very easy to care for and will thrive in low light conditions.”

10. Chinese Evergreen

The Chinese evergreen is a popular choice for low light conditions due to its ability to thrive in a range of environments. It is known for its glossy, dark green leaves and ability to purify the air. According to plant expert Lisa Eldred Steinkopf, “The Chinese evergreen is a great plant for purifying the air and is also very easy to care for. It will thrive in low light conditions and is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures.”

11. Arrowhead Plant

The arrowhead plant, also known as the syngonium, is a tropical plant that is well-suited to low light conditions. It is known for its distinctive arrow-shaped leaves and ability to grow quickly. According to plant expert Darryl Cheng, “The arrowhead plant is a great choice for those who want a low light plant that is easy to care for and can grow quickly. It is also known for its ability to purify the air.”

12. Ficus

Ficus plants, also known as fig trees, are a popular choice for low light conditions due to their ability to tolerate a wide range of environments. They are known for their glossy, green leaves and ability to grow quickly. According to plant expert Joy Us Garden, “Ficus plants are great for purifying the air and are also very easy to care for. They will thrive in low light conditions and are tolerant of a wide range of temperatures.”

13. Golden Pothos

The golden pothos, also known as the devil’s ivy, is a low light plant that is known for its bright, golden leaves. It is a popular choice for hanging baskets or for training to climb a trellis or wall. According to plant expert Darryl Cheng, “The golden pothos is a great choice for those who want a low light plant that is easy to care for and can add a splash of color to their home. It is also known for its ability to purify the air.”

14. Dieffenbachia

Dieffenbachias, also known as dumb canes, are a popular choice for low light conditions due to their ability to thrive in a range of environments. They are known for their large, glossy leaves and ability to purify the air. According to plant expert Katie Dubow, “Dieffenbachias are great for purifying the air and are also very easy to care for. They will thrive in low light conditions and are tolerant of a wide range of temperatures.”

15. Dracaena

Dracaenas are a popular choice for low light conditions due to their ability to thrive in a range of environments. They are known for their glossy, green leaves and ability to purify the air. According to plant expert Katie Dubow, “Dracaenas are great for purifying the air and are also very easy to care for. They will thrive in low light conditions and are tolerant of a wide range of temperatures.”

16. Peperomia

Peperomias are a popular choice for low light conditions due to their ability to thrive in a range of environments. They are known for their small, glossy leaves and ability to tolerate a wide range of temperatures. According to plant expert Joy Us Garden, “Peperomias are great for purifying the air and are also very easy to care for. They will thrive in low light conditions and are tolerant of a wide range of temperatures.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the benefits of having low light plants in my home?

According to NASA researcher Dr. B. C. Wolverton, “Plants absorb gases and release oxygen, which can help to purify the air and reduce the levels of certain pollutants.” In addition to improving air quality, low light plants can also reduce stress and increase productivity.

2. Can all plants survive in low light conditions?

Not all plants can thrive in low light conditions. According to plant expert Darryl Cheng, “Plants need light to photosynthesize, which is the process of turning light energy into chemical energy. Some plants are more adaptable to low light conditions and can survive on minimal light, while others need a lot of light to thrive.”

3. How do I care for low light plants?

According to plant expert Katie Dubow, “Low light plants generally need less water than plants that thrive in bright light. However, it is still important to pay attention to the watering needs of your specific plant. Overwatering can be just as harmful as underwatering, so be sure to check the soil moisture before watering.”

4. Can low light plants improve the air quality in my home?

Yes, low light plants have been shown to improve the air quality in your home. According to plant expert Joy Us Garden, “Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which can help to purify the air and reduce the levels of certain pollutants.”

5. Are there any low light plants that are particularly easy to care for?

According to plant expert Lisa Eldred Steinkopf, “The spider plant and pothos are two of the most forgiving houseplants you can grow. They tolerate low light and are also very forgiving if you happen to forget to water them.” Other low maintenance options include the snake plant, the ZZ plant, and the cast iron plant.

Conclusion

In conclusion, low light plants can bring life and color to any space, even those with limited natural light. From the easy-to-care-for spider plant to the vibrant peperomia, there is a plant for everyone. These plants not only improve the look of your home, but they also have a number of benefits for your health and well-being. Studies have shown that plants can improve air quality, reduce stress, and increase productivity. So why not give one of these low light plants a try and see how they can transform your space?

Low light plants are a great addition to any home and can bring a touch of nature and greenery to even the darkest corners. So whether you’re looking to add a pop of color to your living room or purify the air in your bedroom, there is a low light plant that is perfect for you. Happy planting!