Don’t have a sunny windowsill? No problem. There are plenty of plants that don’t need direct sunlight to grow, and some actually prefer the shade!
If your space is dim or you’re relying on artificial light, you can still fill your home with beautiful, healthy greenery.
These 25 houseplants thrive in low light and are super easy to care for. Most of them just need a little moisture and some occasional attention to stay lush and happy.
Whether you’re decorating a dark corner or a windowless office, this list has something green for you.
#1 Snake Plant
Source: Swansonsnursery
This plant almost thrives on neglect, making it perfect for beginners. It grows upright with tall, sword-like leaves and handles low light like a champ. Even if your room has no windows, the snake plant won’t complain.
Just water it sparingly; too much can cause root rot. It’s also known for cleaning the air, so you get beauty and benefits in one. Try placing it in your bedroom or hallway.
#2 Boston Fern
Source: Desertcart
Love leafy, feathery foliage? Boston ferns can bring a soft, lush look to dim corners. They prefer humidity and indirect light, so bathrooms are ideal homes for them.
Mist them occasionally to keep their fronds fresh. They do drop a few leaves, but nothing too messy. Keep them away from heat vents and let their soil stay slightly moist.
#3 Philodendron
Source: Thespruce
Philodendrons are classic indoor plants that grow beautifully without sun. Their heart-shaped leaves add instant charm to desks or shelves.
You can train them to climb or let them trail, it’s your call. These plants tolerate forgetful watering and dim conditions well. Try putting one near a north-facing window or under a lamp. It’ll still grow, just a bit slower.
#4 Orchids
Source: Bhg
Yes, orchids can live without direct sunlight! These elegant bloomers only need bright but indirect light to flower. They’re a bit fussy with watering, don’t overdo it, but it’s worth the effort for their stunning colors.
Orchids love bathrooms where the humidity is higher. Add one to your vanity or shelf for a spa-like vibe. Make sure it drains well to avoid soggy roots.
#5 Devil’s Ivy (Golden Pothos/Money Plant)
Source: Fleurliving
Pothos might be the ultimate no-sun, no-stress plant. Its trailing vines look gorgeous in hanging baskets or on shelves. It tolerates everything from low light to irregular watering.
You can easily propagate it in water, too, just snip and drop. This one’s a top choice for plant beginners. Bonus: it helps filter toxins from the air.
Read More: 20 Indoor Plants Which Help Purify The Air
#6 Bromeliads
Source: Gardenersworld
Want something exotic-looking that’s still low-maintenance? Bromeliads are bold, colorful, and surprisingly shade-tolerant. They don’t grow big, so they’re great for small spaces.
Use filtered water in their central cup, not the soil. They’ll bloom beautifully even in fluorescent office lighting. Add one to your work desk and enjoy the tropical flair.
#7 ZZ Plant
Source: Glasswingshop
The ZZ plant is practically indestructible and perfect for dark corners. Its glossy leaves reflect light and add a bold, sculptural look. It stores water in its rhizomes, so you can go weeks without watering.
It doesn’t care about light, just don’t put it in direct sun. If you forget it exists for a while, it’ll still be there looking fresh. Great for busy people or low-light rooms.
#8 Prayer Plant
Source: Thehealthyhouseplant
Known for its striking patterned leaves, the prayer plant folds its foliage at night, hence the name. It likes medium to low light and appreciates high humidity.
Keep the soil damp but not soggy. This plant is a great conversation starter. Place it on a table or windowsill with filtered light, and watch it “pray” each evening. It’s small, so you can tuck it anywhere.
#9 Dumb Cane
Source: Thespruce
This plant gets its name from the milky sap in its stems, but don’t worry, just don’t eat it. Dumb cane has bold, variegated leaves that brighten shady rooms. It’s tolerant of both low light and uneven watering.
It does best in filtered indoor light or artificial lighting. Keep it away from kids and pets due to its mildly toxic sap. A smart pick for offices and corners.
#10 Maidenhair Fern
Source: Etsy
This delicate-looking fern is surprisingly tough in low light. Its tiny, lacy leaves bring elegance to any shelf or table. It thrives in moist environments like bathrooms.
Keep the soil lightly damp and mist often. It’s not the easiest fern, but it rewards gentle care with gorgeous growth. Perfect for plant lovers who like a bit of a challenge.
#11 Spider Plant
Source: Fabblr
This old favorite does well even in the shadiest parts of your home. It produces baby “spiderettes” that dangle from its leaves. You can grow new plants from these easily.
It’s great in hanging baskets or tall pots. Just keep the soil lightly moist and give it some indirect light. Spider plants are also pet-friendly, which is a nice bonus. Great for beginners.
#12 Peperomia
Source: Bhg
With its thick, textured leaves, peperomia is a fun little plant to collect. It tolerates low light and doesn’t grow too big. You don’t have to water it too often, thanks to its succulent-like nature.
These come in lots of leaf shapes and colors, so mix and match. Place one on your windowsill, shelf, or desk. It adds charm without needing much attention.
Read More: 30 Houseplants That Will Instantly Brighten Your Living Room
#13 Japanese Sedge
Source: Unknow
This ornamental grass-like plant prefers filtered light and moist soil. It’s a great choice if you want something different from leafy greens. Japanese sedge works well in shaded spots and cool corners.
You can even grow it in containers for easier maintenance. Water regularly and trim when needed. It adds a soft, grassy texture to indoor plant groupings.
#14 Umbrella Papyrus
Source: Silive
This quirky plant grows tall, umbrella-shaped stems and thrives in low-light bathrooms. It loves wet feet, so don’t worry about overwatering it.
Place the pot in a saucer of water to keep roots moist. It gives a wild, whimsical look to indoor plant arrangements. Not many houseplants look like this one. A great statement plant for dull corners.
#15 Lucky Bamboo
Source: Homefashiontrend
Technically not bamboo, but it sure looks like it. Lucky bamboo grows just fine in low light and water. You can style it in pebbles, vases, or small pots; it’s very adaptable.
It’s believed to bring good luck, especially when placed near entrances. Keep the water fresh and avoid direct sun. Makes a peaceful, clean-looking addition to any space.
#16 Silver Queen
Source: Hortology
This tough plant is known for its silvery-green foliage. It can live in dim corners where others fail. Just avoid direct sun, which can scorch its leaves. It likes evenly moist soil but is forgiving of occasional dryness.
Place it in living rooms, hallways, or bedrooms. It brings a cool-toned look that goes well with modern decor.
#17 Peacock Plant
Source: Shoppigment
The peacock plant, or calathea, has striking leaves with deep purple undersides and bold patterns. It prefers indirect light and lots of humidity. Too much light can wash out its colors, so low light works just fine.
Mist it regularly and water when the topsoil is dry. Place it in a bathroom or use a humidifier nearby. It’s dramatic and totally worth the care.
#18 Aloe Vera
You might think aloe needs sun, but it can survive with bright indirect light. Its thick, fleshy leaves store water, making it great for forgetful plant parents.
Just don’t overwater it prefers dry conditions. Keep one on your kitchen shelf for both looks and healing gel. It’s small, tidy, and super practical. Plus, it’s almost maintenance-free.
#19 Staghorn Fern
Source: Whiteflowerfarm
Unlike most ferns, this one grows on wood or hanging boards. It loves humidity and filtered light. Bathrooms are ideal because of the steam and gentle light.
Mist it a few times a week to keep it happy. Its unique antler-shaped fronds add instant style to your walls. It’s not your average houseplant, and that’s what makes it cool.
#20 Parlor Palm
The parlor palm has been a favorite since Victorian times and for good reason. It’s slow-growing, graceful, and super tolerant of low light. It prefers slightly moist soil but can handle some dryness.
Use it to add height and texture to your plant setup. It does well in corners and behind furniture. A great pick for classic, timeless greenery.
#21 Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Source: Unknow
This plant is as easygoing as they come. It tolerates low light, dry air, and forgetful watering. The leaves come in many colors, from green to pinkish-red tones.
It’s a top choice for beginners or busy folks. Just keep it out of direct sun and water when the topsoil dries out. It’s practically foolproof.
#22 Peace Lily
Famous for its white blooms and lush green leaves, the peace lily grows well without sunlight. It actually prefers shade and a bit of weekly watering.
When it’s thirsty, its leaves droop to remind you. This plant is also great for improving indoor air quality. Place it on a table or floor where it gets some filtered light. It’ll reward you with beautiful flowers.
#23 Dracaena
Source: Crocus
Dracaenas are low-maintenance plants with long, strappy leaves. They grow slowly and don’t mind shade. Water sparingly and wipe the leaves to keep them shiny.
Some varieties can grow quite tall over time. Use them as statement plants in corners or beside furniture. They’re stylish and easy to grow.
#24 Cast Iron Plant
Source: Yates
True to its name, this plant is nearly indestructible. It survives low light, low humidity, and infrequent watering. Its dark green leaves grow slowly but steadily.
Just give it a shady spot and let it be. Perfect for anyone who wants a low-effort green touch. Great for hallways, entryways, or any low-traffic corner.
#25 Creeping Fig
Source: Easywallbox
This vine can grow along walls or inside terrariums with very little light. It clings to surfaces and spreads gently, making it great for vertical plant styling. Keep the soil moist and trim it to shape.
It loves humidity, so bathrooms and kitchens work best. With care, it forms a living wall of green. A fun choice if you want something a little different.
