Having a room with little natural light can make decorating it with live plants seem challenging. However, many varieties of houseplants can thrive in low-light conditions. You can create an indoor oasis with the proper selections, even in the darkest corners of your home. When choosing the best plants for dark rooms, prioritize varieties that naturally grow on the forest floor, where they thrive in the shade. Additionally, focus on plants with broad leaves, as they can absorb more of the minimal sunlight available. Avoid spindly and vining plants that tend to get leggy without sufficient light.
The Best Plants for Dark Rooms
Here is an overview of the top affordable houseplants that can brighten up your dark spaces:
Snake Plant
The snake plant, known as mother-in-law’s tongue or Saint George’s sword, is a classic choice for low-light areas. Native to tropical West Africa, it has long, upright leaves with yellow edges reaching up to 4 feet tall. The leaves emerge from the soil like a cluster of swords, giving it a striking architectural shape.
The snake plant’s ability to go long without water makes it ideal for dark rooms. The succulent-like leaves store moisture, so you only need to water once a month. The snake plant is also excellent at filtering indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene.
You can find small snake plants for as little as $10. With proper care, they will thrive for years in a dark corner.
Cast Iron Plant
With broad, deep green leaves and a vase-shaped growth habit, the cast iron plant makes an elegant addition to unlit spaces. Native to the rainforests of Taiwan and Japan, this nearly indestructible plant can tolerate extreme shade. It does equally well in artificial and low-natural light.
The cast iron plant is also one of the lowest-maintenance houseplants. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Wipe the dusty leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to keep them looking fresh. You can find these hardy plants for around $10 to $15 for a 6-inch pot.
Chinese Evergreen
A popular favorite for dim offices and hallways, Chinese evergreen comes in many beautiful varieties. Their shades range from deep green with silver markings to tricolored leaves striped in gray, pink, and cream. Slow but steady growers reach 1 to 3 feet tall at maturity.
Chinese evergreen thrives in virtually every indoor condition, from bright to almost no light. Allow the potting mix to dry between waterings and maintain average room humidity. You can find these beauties for less than $20 for a 6-inch pot.
ZZ Plant
The ZZ plant is a tropical species native to eastern Africa. Its unusual name comes from its thick, waxy leaves shaped like elongated “z’s.” The leaves emerge from tuberous underground stems in a graceful, ornamental display. ZZ plants grow in compact clumps between 1 to 3 feet tall.
ZZ plants store water in their potato-like rhizomes, so they only need occasional watering. They can thrive for months in dark corners and survive benign neglect. These quirky-looking plants sell for around $15 for a 6-inch pot.
Pothos
With its cascading vine-like stems and heart-shaped leaves, pothos is one of the most popular houseplants for a reason – it’s almost impossible to kill it! Native to the tropical Solomon Islands, pothos can grow in low light conditions that would cause most other plants to decline.
Golden pothos is the most common variety, sporting leaves streaked with buttery yellow. Other varieties have white, silver, or pale green marbled leaves. Pothos vines can reach up to 10 feet long but are easily kept compact by trimming them back. A 4-inch starter plant costs just $5 or $6 at most garden centers.
Peace Lily
Known for its elegant white blooms, the peace lily is another tropic native that can brighten up spaces with minimal natural light. It produces flowers off and on throughout the year in the right conditions. These architectural plants grow 3 feet tall with dark green leaves and creamy flower spathes.
Peace lilies thrive in high humidity. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Filtered sunlight keeps them blooming, but they will get by on artificial light. Pick up a 6-inch pot for around $10.
Lucky Bamboo
Native to tropical Africa and Asia, lucky bamboo has long, straight stems topped with pale green leaves shaped like grass blades. Despite its name, it is not technically bamboo but a tropical water lily.
Lucky bamboo is well suited to Low-light rooms and grows well in just a vase of water. No soil is required! Choose stalks ranging from 6 inches to 3 feet tall. Prices range from $2 for a small stalk to $25 for an elaborate arrangement. According to folklore, the plant brings prosperity and good fortune.
Bird’s Nest Fern
Named for their nest-like center of foliage, bird’s nest ferns have arching green fronds cascading from a central rosette. Their lush, tropical look makes them a living sculpture for shelves or tabletops. Slow growing to about 1 foot tall and wide, their dimensions are easy to manage.
Bird’s nest ferns thrive in the shade of the forest canopy in their native Southeast Asia. Water when the top of the potting mix dries out and mist frequently to recreate tropical humidity. Pick one up for around $25.
Heart Leaf Philodendron
The heart leaf philodendron has leaf shapes that range from spade-like to distinctly heart-shaped. Beautiful trailing vines show off the glossy green, purple-tinged foliage. Native to tropical rainforests, philodendrons can handle meager light.
Allow the soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Remove brown leaves promptly to keep them looking fresh. Heart leaf philodendrons start around $25 for a full 6-inch hanging basket.
Air Plants
Air plants, called tillandsia, are a unique variety of tropical epiphytes native to southern Mexico and Central and South America. They have silvery green or pinkish leaves that grow in elongated rosettes or spiky shapes. The curious plants attach to various surfaces and get their moisture and nutrients from the air.
Air plants thrive when mounted on pieces of wood or tucked into seashells and hanging containers. Mist them a few times weekly and give them bright but indirect sunlight if possible. But they will tolerate dark corners admirably. Buy small starter plants for about $5 to $10.
Ferns
Delicate ferns are ideal additions to shady rooms, just as they thrive on the forest floor. Varieties like the soft brake fern, rabbit’s foot fern, and maidenhair fern do best in dark rooms. Avoid direct sun, as too much light will scorch their shady fronds.
Water when the potting mix is partly dry and maintains indoor humidity. Ferns start around $5 for 2-inch starters and $15 for 4 to 6-inch hanging baskets. Larger floor plants can cost up to $40.
Calathea
Native to the Americas, calathea are known for their stunningly patterned and colorful foliage. Themed varieties have leaves striped, dotted, or marked with purple, pink, red, gray, and cream blotches. The plants range from 6 inches to 2 feet tall when mature.
Calathea prefers indirect light and high humidity. Water when the top inch of soil dries out. These exotic beauties come with a higher price tag, from $20 for 4-inch pots to $50 for an 8 to 10-inch plant. But they instantly liven up dreary corners with living art.
Bromeliads
Bromeliads are tropical plants prized for their rosettes of vividly colored, patterned leaves and unique flowering habits. Popular varieties include the flame violet, scarlet star, and guzmania with their showy star-shaped flower spikes. The colorful leaves tolerate deep shade well.
Provide bright, indirect light for blooms when possible. Water the central cup formed by the leaves and mist often. Bromeliads start around $10 for 4-inch pots and $25 for 6-inch containers in bloom.
Caring For Plants in Dark Rooms
Bringing plants into dark rooms presents some unique challenges for their care. But don’t let the lack of light stop you from creating your indoor oasis! Use these tips to help your plants not just survive but thrive.
Choose Light Varieties
Start with plants adapted explicitly to low-light conditions. Tropical understory plants, succulents, and varieties with broad leaves will fare best. Avoid sun lovers like cacti and herbs unless you can provide supplemental light.
When shopping, read plant tags carefully and look for key phrases like “low light,” “artificial light,” and “tolerates shade.” Familiarize yourself with the top low-light plants recommended above.
Give Them the Brightest Spots
When adding plants, place them where they will get the most ambient natural light. East and west-facing windows are best in darker rooms. North-facing windows work if bright and not obscured.
Avoid areas far from any windows with zero natural light. Even low-light plants need some illumination to survive. Place plants on stands or hang them to bring them closer to light sources.
Supplement with Artificial Light
To help plants thrive, provide supplemental lighting. Use full spectrum, plant-specific grow lights. LED grow lights are energy-efficient and long-lasting. Position lights to illuminate plants for 12 to 16 hours per day.
Install timers to automate lights. Suspend lights from chains or set them on stands to adjust height—place lights as close to plants as possible without burning the leaves.
Water and Fertilize Sparingly
Avoid overwatering plants in dark conditions. Check soil moisture frequently and only water when partly dry. Reduce fertilizing to match the slower growth in low light. Fertilize monthly or quarterly according to package directions.
Use room-temperature filtered water rather than cold tap water. Allow water to reach room temperature overnight before watering, or place the container in a sink of warm water to take off the chill.
Maintain Healthy Air
Plants need good air circulation and humidity. Use fans to circulate air around plants gently. Misting leaves frequently and using a humidifier also benefits plants.
Group plants together to create a beneficial microclimate. Avoid drafty spots and vents blowing directly on plants. Monitor for pests and treat them promptly when found.
Rotate Plants
Rotate plants between brighter and darker spots to ensure all sides get illuminated. This prevents them from leaning toward light sources and promotes even growth.
Place plants outdoors in dappled shade during summer to boost periodic light. Just introduce them gradually to avoid leaf burn.
Prune and Dust Leaves
Trim dead leaves and spent blooms to maintain an attractive appearance. Wipe leaves periodically with a damp cloth to remove dust and ensure they can absorb light efficiently.
Pinch back wayward vines and branches to encourage bushier, compact growth. Propagate from cuttings to make new plants for extra bright spots.
Recommended Low Light Plant Care Routine
Caring for plants in dark rooms without access to much natural light requires modifications to typical houseplant care. Here is a recommended routine for keeping low-light plants looking their best:
- Water carefully – Check soil moisture by sticking a finger in the soil and only water when the top 1-2 inches are dry. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then empty the saucer.
- Use water at room temperature – Avoid chilling plants with cold tap water. Let water sit out overnight before using.
- Fertilize lightly – Fertilize monthly with a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to 1/4 strength. Reduce feeding in winter when growth slows.
- Mist frequently – Use a spray bottle to mist leaves every few days to increase humidity around plants.
- Wipe leaves – Wipe leaves every two weeks with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust buildup and allow plants to absorb light better.
- Circulate air – Use fans set on low to circulate air around plants gently. Avoid drafts directly on plants.
- Supplemental light – Provide complete spectrum plant grow lights for 12-16 hours daily. Position lights close to plants to increase intensity.
- Rotate plants – Rotate plants between brighter and darker areas monthly to prevent one-sided leaning toward light sources.
- Prune and groom – Remove dead leaves and flowers. Pinch back over overlong vines—Propagate from cuttings.
This routine will help your low-light plants endure and prosper in the shade. Please pay close attention to their care; your dark rooms will soon be lush, plant-filled spaces.
5 Common Problems and Solutions for Low Light Plants
Plants growing in low light conditions face added challenges. Monitor them closely for any signs of stress or decline. Catch problems early and take corrective care to get plants thriving again. Here are five common issues and how to resolve them:
Leggy Growth
Cause – When light is insufficient, plants stretch, and space leaves further apart, searching for light. This leggy growth makes them appear weak and sparse.
Solution – Improve light exposure with supplemental lighting. Prune back overgrown stems just above a leaf joint and propagate the cuttings to start new plants.
Few or No Blooms
Cause – Most flowering houseplants need bright, direct light to bloom well—low light limits flower production.
Solution – Increase light during the growing season to encourage more blooms. Move plants to the brightest location when buds appear.
Tip Burn or Leaf Scorch
Cause – If given more light than they are acclimated, the leaf tips or edges will turn brown. This light burn damages leaves.
Solution – Move plants gradually into increasing light over weeks to harden them off. Treat burned areas by pruning damaged tissue just above the healthy part of the leaf.
Leaf Drop
Cause – Insufficient light forces plants to shed some leaves to reduce demands. Cold drafts or underwatering can also cause leaf drop.
Solution – Rule out drafts and improper watering, then improve light exposure. For mild leaf drop, increase humidity and remove yellowed leaves promptly.
Slow Growth
Cause – Plants in low light allocate energy to survival over new growth. Their expansion happens at a languid pace.
Solution – Supplement with grow lights on timers to provide the intensity plants need for better growth. Turn or rotate plants to ensure even exposure.
5 Tips for Adding Color in Dark Rooms
Bringing vibrant colors into a low-light space can be challenging but is not impossible. Use these creative strategies to brighten up the shadiest corners:
- Add pops of color – Use boldly colored pots, vases, artwork, and accent pieces like throw pillows or area rugs to inject color. Rotate items seasonally for a change.
- Highlight architectural details – Paint one wall an intense shade or use colorful trim to define arches, ceilings, or other interesting structural elements.
- Use indirect light – Place mirrors strategically to reflect colored walls or decorate the room with strings of patio lights to cast a festive glow.
- Choose brightly variegated plants – Select houseplants with leaves splashed or bordered with shades like pink, red, white, or cream for pops of contrast.
- Install color-changing lights – Swap out existing lighting with color-changing bulbs or strips you can set to any hue. Use bright bulbs you can control from your phone for easy adjustments.
Don’t let a lack of light stop you from using color to create a warm, welcoming space. With plants and accessories in vibrant hues, a low-light room can feel just as lively as the brightest sunroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of light do indoor plants need to survive?
Most indoor plants only require moderate or low indirect light to perform essential life functions. But without adequate light, they grow slowly and appear sparse and leggy. Plants prefer closer to a full day of good filtered light to thrive.
How far from a window can plants grow?
Plant placement depends on direction, window size, and glass type. East and west windows allow plants to flourish within 5 feet. Unobstructed south windows work within 8 to 10 feet. North-facing windows only support plants directly in front. Double-pane glass and screens filter out light, so keep plants as close as possible.
Can plants live only under artificial light?
Plants can survive purely under artificial light with the correct type of grow light providing 12-16 hours of daily exposure. Use broad-spectrum or full-spectrum grow lights designed specifically for indoor plants. Position lights close to the top of plants.
Should I prune leggy plants to encourage new growth?
Pruning back overgrown stems just above a leaf node for severely leggy plants can rejuvenate severely leggy plants. However, avoid excessive pruning, which further stresses them. Increase light exposure along with moderate pruning for best results.
How do I harden off a plant to transition it from shade to sun?
When moving a shade-loving plant to brighter light, help it adjust by gradually increasing light exposure over 2-3 weeks. Start by moving it across the room closer to the window for just 1-2 hours a day, then increase time in the light by a few hours every few days. Watch for leaf scorch and slow the transition if leaves start to burn. Mist leaves to reduce stress.
Why are my low-light plants dropping leaves?
Occasional leaf drop is expected as plants shed older leaves. But excessive leaf drop usually signals a problem. Rule out causes like overwatering, underwatering, drafts, or sudden increases in light intensity. Then, look at increasing humidity through misting and improving air circulation and light exposure.
Conclusion
While creating an indoor oasis in dark rooms poses some unique challenges, the proper plant selection and care techniques make it entirely achievable. Focus on plants adapted to shady conditions, like ferns, calathea, and bromeliads. Supplement with grow lights and tend carefully to plants’ water, humidity, and air circulation needs. With the recommendations, even spaces with minimal natural light can become vibrant and lush gardens.
So don’t despair if your space lacks abundant light. Embrace the atmosphere as an opportunity to get creative with adaptable plants and lighting. Proper selections and care allow your dark room to overflow with vibrant greenery and become a secluded plant-filled oasis. Incorporating fragrant indoor plants into your home not only fills your space with delightful aromas but also amplifies the pleasing peace and relaxation plants provide, especially crucial in areas devoid of natural light, soothing and brightening even the darkest indoor spaces.
