The best houseplants that grow in the dark bring greenery and charm to spaces where sunlight rarely reaches. You don’t need a bright window to enjoy the calming presence of indoor plants; some varieties actually prefer dim corners and low-light spots.
These plants are easy to maintain and make wonderful companions for busy people or beginner gardeners. Their foliage adds depth and texture, while some even surprise you with blooms in the shadiest corners of your home.
Place them on shelves, in hanging baskets, or on a tabletop, and they’ll instantly refresh the atmosphere.
If you’ve ever worried about killing a plant due to a lack of sunlight, these resilient choices will put your mind at ease. With just occasional watering and simple care, you can enjoy lush greenery even in darker areas of your house.
#1 Prayer Plant
Prayer plants are known for their strikingly patterned leaves in shades of green, purple, and yellow. The foliage folds up at night, resembling hands in prayer, which makes them a charming addition to dim rooms.
They do well in indirect light and moist soil. Mist the leaves regularly to keep their colors vibrant. Place them in a decorative pot for a pop of natural artistry. With little attention, this plant becomes a living accent piece in your home.
#2 Snake Plant
The snake plant is almost indestructible and adapts easily to dark spaces. Its tall, upright leaves store water, so it survives even if you forget to water for weeks. Give it a drink only when the soil is dry to the touch.
It also helps purify the air, making it both beautiful and practical. Place it in a corner where little else thrives, and it will continue to grow. This hardy plant is perfect for anyone with a busy lifestyle.
#3 Pothos
Pothos is a classic low-light plant with trailing vines that spill gracefully from baskets or shelves. It doesn’t ask for much, just water when the soil feels dry. You can snip a stem and place it in water to easily propagate new plants.
Its variegated leaves stay bright even in dim corners. Hang it near a dark stairwell or place it on top of a high cabinet. Over time, its flowing vines bring softness and greenery to neglected spaces.
#4 Peace Lily
Peace lilies brighten shady rooms with glossy leaves and elegant white blooms. They thrive in low-light conditions but still reward you with flowers if cared for well. Keep the soil slightly moist and mist the leaves to maintain humidity.
Their air-purifying qualities also improve the atmosphere indoors. Place them in a decorative planter to create a fresh focal point. With a little attention, they bring both calm and beauty to your space.
#5 Corn Plant
The corn plant is a forgiving choice for darker rooms. Its long, striped leaves resemble corn stalks, adding tropical vibes without demanding full sun. Water it lightly, allowing the soil to dry out between drinks.
Overwatering can harm its roots, so less is better here. It can reach impressive heights indoors, making it ideal for filling empty corners. With minimal care, it adds structure and greenery to your home.
#6 Spider Plant
Spider plants are cheerful houseplants that grow well even in low-light spots. Their arching green leaves with white stripes make them perfect for hanging baskets.
They occasionally produce small white flowers and baby plantlets that dangle from the mother plant. Keep the soil lightly moist, and they’ll grow happily for years.
You can easily propagate the plantlets by placing them in water or soil. This playful plant instantly brightens a dim window or shelf.
#7 Chinese Evergreen
Chinese evergreens are beloved for their colorful, variegated leaves in shades of green, pink, and yellow. They adapt easily to low light and even tolerate drought. Water them sparingly, and they’ll keep thriving with little fuss.
Their foliage adds a tropical feel to shaded corners. They’re also long-lived plants that reward you with dependable growth. For a splash of color in a darker room, this plant is a reliable choice.
#8 Zee Zee Plant
The ZZ plant is nearly impossible to kill, making it ideal for forgetful gardeners. Its glossy, deep green leaves shine even in the darkest areas of your home. It requires very little water and prefers to dry out completely between drinks.
This plant grows slowly but steadily, adding elegance with minimal effort. Place it in a decorative pot to showcase its sculptural look. You’ll appreciate how it thrives quietly with almost no attention.
#9 Moth Orchid
Moth orchids are delicate flowering plants that tolerate low light beautifully. Their blooms appear in shades of white, pink, or purple, lasting for weeks at a time. Stake the stems to support their graceful arching flowers.
Keep the roots in bark or orchid mix and water lightly once a week. They bring a soft, elegant charm to the darker corners of the home. With a little care, you’ll enjoy repeat blooms year after year.