Top 8 Plants that handles low light
We will introduce you to eight different plants 🪴 that thrive in low-light conditions.
We will introduce you to eight different plants 🪴 that thrive in low-light conditions.
Hello Planters! In this blog post, we are excited to share with you eight different types of plants that, based on our experience, thrive exceptionally well in low light conditions. Stay with us until the end for a special bonus tip on an unexpected plant that can also handle low light environments!
Before we dive into our list, it’s important to address a common misconception: no plant truly enjoys low light conditions. All plants naturally crave ample light to thrive. However, certain species and varieties have adapted to tolerate, and sometimes even flourish, in lower light settings.
When placing a plant in a low light condition, there are several factors to keep in mind:
1. Slower Growth: In low light, plants will not grow as quickly. Light is essential for photosynthesis, the process by which plants produce their food. With less light, the plant’s ability to produce food diminishes, resulting in slower growth.
2. Reduced Water and Nutrient Needs: Plants in low light require less water and nutrients. Since they aren’t producing as much food through photosynthesis, their overall needs decrease. You may need to adjust your watering schedule and dilute the nutrients you provide.
3. Appearance Changes: Low light can cause plants to become leggy or thin, as they do not need to transport as much water. New growth may be slimmer, and leaves can turn darker. Variegated plants may lose their unique coloring in an attempt to increase chlorophyll production.
4. Increased Pest Susceptibility: Plants in low light can become stressed and more prone to pests. It’s important to regularly check these plants for any signs of pests and take preventive measures to keep them healthy.
By understanding these key considerations, you can better care for your low light plants and ensure they remain healthy and vibrant. Now, let’s explore the top eight plants that excel in low light conditions!
Did you know?
Low light plants grow slower because they receive less light, which is essential for photosynthesis.
Overview
Introduction
The first plant we want to highlight is the Dragon Tree, scientifically known as Dracaena Fragrans. This plant, along with most varieties in the Dracaena family, can thrive in very low light conditions. It is one of the most commonly used plant type in offices around the world, and for good reason. The Dragon Tree is exceptionally easy to care for and can adapt to various lighting environments, making it ideal for both homes and workplaces.
Care Tips
Specific Varieties for Low Light
Dracaena Janet Lind: This variety is particularly exceptional for low light conditions. It remains lush and vibrant even with minimal light, making it a top recommendation for very dark placements.
Variegated Dracaena: While many Dracaena plants thrive in low light, the variegated types may lose their unique leaf patterns when placed in darker environments. However, the Dracaena Fragrans ‘Warneckii’ can retain its variegation even in low light conditions, although this is less common.
Managing Legginess
When placed in low light, the Dracaena Fragrans might get a bit leggy, meaning the new growth will be thinner and taller as it stretches towards the light. To manage this:
Conclusion
The Dragon Tree is a versatile and resilient plant, perfect for low light environments. With the right care, it can thrive and add a touch of greenery to the darkest corners of your home or office. Remember to choose the right variety for your specific light conditions and maintain regular pruning to keep your plant looking its best.
Quick Tip!
Overwatering is a common issue for low light plants. Always let the soil dry out between waterings.
Overview
Introduction
The second plant we want to highlight is the Snake Plant, formerly known as Sansevieria Trifasciata. Despite its reclassification a few years ago into the Dracaena family, we still commonly refer to it as Sansevieria because it differs significantly from other Dracaena types. One of its most remarkable features is its ability to thrive in very low light conditions.
Care Tips
Growth Characteristics
Watering Considerations
One critical aspect of Snake Plant care in low light is proper watering:
Conclusion
The Snake Plant is an incredibly resilient and adaptable plant, making it an excellent choice for low light conditions. Its ability to survive in very dark environments with minimal care makes it a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts. However, careful attention to watering and occasional light adjustments can help maintain its health and appearance. For more plant care tips and recommendations, check our Snake Plant Guide.
Did you know?
Snake Plants can survive in very low light but prefer to be bone dry before the next watering.
Overview
• Scientific Name: Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
• Nickname: ZZ Plant
• Light Requirements: Low light tolerant
Introduction
The third plant on our list is often referred to as the king or queen of low light placements: the ZZ Plant, scientifically known as Zamioculcas Zamiifolia. This plant is renowned for its exceptional ability to handle low light conditions. There are several varieties of the ZZ Plant, and all of them can thrive in low light, although they do prefer brighter environments to grow more quickly and become fuller.
Care Tips
• Ideal Placement: Offices, low-light bedrooms, or dimly lit corners. ZZ plants are incredibly versatile and can adapt to various indoor environments.
• Watering: Water every 2-3 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering is a common issue with ZZ plants, so it’s better to err on the side of underwatering.
• Fertilization: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-3 months during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as ZZ plants are slow growers and don’t require much feeding.
• Pest Management: ZZ plants are generally pest-resistant but check for aphids and spider mites occasionally. If pests are detected, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Temperature and Humidity: Prefers temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and moderate humidity. It can tolerate lower humidity but avoid placing it near cold drafts or heating vents.
Growth Characteristics
• Slow Growth: In very low light, the ZZ Plant’s growth can slow down to almost zero. It can take a very long time for new shoots to appear, but the plant will still survive.
• Survival in Extreme Conditions: The ZZ Plant can withstand extreme neglect. In Swedish, it is called “Garderobsblomma,” which translates to “closet plant” or “wardrobe flower.” This name hints at its ability to survive in the darkest and driest of conditions. In an experiment, a ZZ Plant placed in a wardrobe for six months still managed to survive, although the new growth was very light in color due to the lack of light.
Light Considerations
• Low Light Adaptation: While the ZZ Plant can survive in very low light, the growth will be minimal. If you want your ZZ Plant to grow quickly and become fuller, place it in an area with more light (though not direct sunlight).
• Color of New Growth: If you notice that new shoots or leaves are very light in color and remain light as they develop, it indicates that the plant needs more light. Moving the ZZ Plant to a brighter location will help ensure that the new leaves develop into a healthy dark green color.
Conclusion
The ZZ Plant is a resilient and adaptable plant, making it an excellent choice for low light conditions. Its ability to survive in extremely dark environments with minimal care makes it a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts. However, providing more light will promote healthier and faster growth. Remember to avoid overwatering and to monitor the light conditions to keep your ZZ Plant thriving.
Quick Tip!
The ZZ Plant, known as the king of low light plants, can survive in almost complete darkness.
Overview
• Scientific Name: Philodendron Scandens
• Common Name: Heartleaf Philodendron
• Light Requirements: Low light tolerant
Introduction
The fourth plant we are featuring is the Heartleaf Philodendron, scientifically known as Philodendron Scandens. This versatile plant is well-loved for its attractive heart-shaped leaves and its ability to thrive in low light conditions. While it can survive in very dark environments, the amount of light it receives significantly impacts the size of its leaves and overall growth rate.
Care Tips
• Ideal Placement: Living rooms, offices, or low-light kitchens. This plant is perfect for hanging baskets or trailing from shelves, adding a lush, green touch to any space.
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering frequency in winter when the plant’s growth slows.
• Fertilization: Feed monthly with a balanced houseplant fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid overfeeding.
• Pest Management: Watch for pests like spider mites and aphids. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to keep them clean and use insecticidal soap if pests are detected.
• Temperature and Humidity: Thrives in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) and high humidity. Mist the leaves regularly or use a humidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels.
Growth Characteristics
• Survival in Low Light: The Heartleaf Philodendron can survive in very low light conditions. It will continue to grow, albeit at a slower rate.
• Leaf Size: In low light, the new leaves will be smaller. For the plant to develop larger leaves, it requires more light. The heart-shaped leaves can grow significantly larger with sufficient light, adding to the plant’s visual appeal.
• Adaptability: This plant is highly adaptable and can adjust to various indoor environments. However, placing it in very dark spots will result in smaller leaves. If you notice that the leaves are becoming particularly small, consider moving the plant to a brighter location.
Light Considerations
• Optimal Growth: While the Heartleaf Philodendron can survive in low light, it will thrive and produce larger leaves in brighter, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
• Maintaining Leaf Size: If you notice the leaves are consistently small, it’s a clear indication that the plant needs more light. Moving it to a location with more indirect light will help it produce larger, healthier leaves.
Conclusion
The Heartleaf Philodendron is a beautiful and resilient plant that is perfect for low light conditions. Its attractive, heart-shaped leaves add a touch of greenery to any indoor space, and its ability to adapt to various lighting conditions makes it a versatile choice for plant enthusiasts. Remember to monitor its light exposure and adjust as necessary to ensure healthy growth and larger leaves.
Interesting Fact!
Variegated plants often lose their unique leaf patterns in low light as they increase chlorophyll to capture more light.
Overview
• Scientific Name: Scindapsus Pictus
• Common Names: Satin Pothos, Satin Vine
• Light Requirements: Low light tolerant
Introduction
The fifth plant on our list is one of our favorite choices for dark placements: the Satin Pothos, also known as Scindapsus Pictus. This plant is often considered the king or queen of low light placements due to its exceptional ability to thrive in very low light conditions. With over 20 years of experience caring for plants, we have found that the Satin Pothos can be placed in the darkest corners of your home without failing.
Care Tips
• Ideal Placement: Offices, bedrooms, or low-light living areas. This trailing vine adds a touch of elegance to any space and can be grown in hanging baskets or trained on supports.
• Watering: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. In very dark spots, this plant prefers to dry out quite a bit between waterings.
• Self-Watering Containers: While Satin Pothos can be grown in self-watering containers, it’s important to adjust watering practices. Instead of keeping the reservoir full, water on top of the soil until you hear excess water dripping into the reservoir, then stop. This method ensures the plant dries out sufficiently between waterings.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup in the soil, so it’s best to dilute the fertilizer to half strength.
• Pest Management: Rarely affected by pests, but inspect for mealybugs and treat with neem oil if needed. Keep the leaves clean by wiping them with a damp cloth.
• Temperature and Humidity: Prefers temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and moderate to high humidity. Increase humidity by misting the leaves regularly or placing a humidifier nearby.
Growth Characteristics
• Leaf Size: In very low light, the leaves of the Satin Pothos will stay small. While the plant continues to thrive and grow, the size of the leaves is directly affected by the amount of light it receives.
• Thriving in Darkness: Despite the small leaves, this plant can grow and remain healthy in the darkest of spots. This makes it an excellent choice for areas in your home or office that receive minimal natural light.
• Self-Watering Practices: To accommodate the plant’s need for drying out between waterings, use a self-watering container strategically. Water on top of the soil until you hear a small drip indicating that excess water has reached the reservoir, then wait almost a month before watering again.
Light Considerations
• Optimal Growth: While the Satin Pothos can survive and even thrive in low light, providing it with more indirect light will result in larger leaves and faster growth.
• Maintaining Small Leaves: If you notice that the leaves are consistently small, it’s an indication that the plant is adapting to low light. This is normal and does not signify poor health, but if you desire larger leaves, consider moving the plant to a brighter location.
Conclusion
The Satin Pothos is a resilient and beautiful plant that excels in low light conditions. Its ability to thrive in dark environments with minimal care makes it a popular choice for many plant enthusiasts. With proper watering and occasional light adjustments, you can maintain a healthy and attractive Satin Pothos in your home.
Plant Care Tip!
Rotate your low light plants regularly to ensure even growth and prevent them from leaning towards the light.
Overview
• Scientific Name: Hoya Carnosa
• Common Names: Wax Vine, Porcelain Flower
• Light Requirements: Low light tolerant
Introduction
Number six on our list is the Wax Vine, also known as the Porcelain Flower or Hoya. Specifically, we are highlighting the Hoya Carnosa, which can thrive in very dark spots. Despite the low light, this plant will continue to grow, although it will always seek out the light, causing new shoots to grow towards any available light source.
Care Tips
• Ideal Placement: Low-light living rooms or offices. Hoya plants can be grown in hanging baskets or trained on trellises, adding a unique and decorative touch to any space.
• Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Hoyas prefer to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. Overwatering can be detrimental, so ensure good drainage.
• Fertilization: Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to prevent overfeeding.
• Pest Management: Hoyas can be susceptible to aphids and mealybugs. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if pests are detected. Keep the leaves clean by wiping them with a damp cloth to prevent dust buildup.
• Temperature and Humidity: Thrives in temperatures between 60-80°F (16-27°C) and moderate to high humidity. Increase humidity by misting the leaves regularly or using a humidifier.
Growth Characteristics
• Light Seeking Behavior: When placed in very dark spots, the Wax Vine will grow towards any available light. New shoots will always point towards the light, making it crucial to rotate the plant occasionally to maintain a balanced shape.
• Pruning: To manage the growth and prevent the plant from becoming too heavy, it is essential to regularly prune long vines. This helps maintain a compact and attractive shape, especially if the plant is trained on a round support or trellis.
• Varieties: For very dark spots, we recommend using either the Hoya Carnosa or the Hoya Pubicalyx varieties. These types handle low light better than other Hoya species. Variegated Hoyas, however, require more light to maintain their unique coloring and should be placed in brighter spots.
Light Considerations
• Optimal Growth: While Hoyas can survive in low light, they will thrive with more indirect light. Providing brighter conditions will encourage more robust growth and potentially more blooms.
• Variegated Types: If you have a variegated Hoya, ensure it receives a lot of light to maintain its variegation. Lack of light can cause the plant to lose its distinctive leaf patterns.
Conclusion
The Wax Vine, or Hoya Carnosa, is a versatile and resilient plant that can thrive in low light conditions. Its unique growth habit and attractive foliage make it a popular choice for indoor gardening. With proper care, including strategic watering, regular pruning, and appropriate light conditions, your Hoya can flourish and add a touch of elegance to your home.
Interesting Fact!
Low light plants still need some light. Even a few hours of indirect light can significantly improve their growth.
Overview
• Scientific Name: Aglaonema
• Common Varieties: Aglaonema Commutatum ‘Silver Bay’, Aglaonema ‘Maria’
• Light Requirements: Low light tolerant
Introduction
The seventh plant on our list is the Chinese Evergreen, known scientifically as Aglaonema. This plant, specifically the Aglaonema ‘Silver Bay’, is one of our favorites for low light conditions. It retains its beautiful variegated leaves even when placed in areas with limited light. In its natural habitat, Aglaonema grows under the dense canopy of large trees and bushes, making it well-suited to low light environments.
Care Tips
• Ideal Placement: Low-light corners, bedrooms, or offices. This plant is perfect for adding a touch of color to dark spaces.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency in winter when the plant’s growth slows.
• Fertilization: Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid overfeeding.
• Pest Management: Check for common pests like spider mites and scale. Clean leaves regularly to keep them dust-free and treat with insecticidal soap if pests are detected.
• Temperature and Humidity: Prefers temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) and moderate to high humidity. Avoid placing it near cold drafts or heating vents.
Growth Characteristics
• Variegation in Low Light: One of the standout features of Aglaonema ‘Silver Bay’ is its ability to maintain its variegated foliage even in low light conditions. This makes it an excellent choice for adding visual interest to dimly lit areas.
• Natural Habitat: In nature, Aglaonema thrives under a thick canopy, receiving filtered light. This environment mimics low light indoor conditions, making it well-adapted for such settings.
• Strongest Varieties: For the best results in low light, we recommend the Aglaonema ‘Maria’. This variety is particularly resilient and maintains its attractive variegation even with minimal light exposure.
Light Considerations
• Optimal Growth: While Aglaonema can handle low light, it will thrive with more indirect light. Providing brighter conditions will encourage more robust growth and potentially more vibrant leaf colors.
• Variegated Types: If you have a variegated Aglaonema, ensure it receives enough light to maintain its distinctive leaf patterns. Lack of light can cause the plant to lose its variegation and turn greener.
Conclusion
The Chinese Evergreen, or Aglaonema, is a versatile and resilient plant that excels in low light conditions. Its ability to retain its beautiful variegated leaves in low light makes it a popular choice for adding color to dim indoor spaces. With proper care, including consistent watering, regular fertilization, and appropriate light conditions, your Aglaonema can flourish and enhance the aesthetic of your home.
Overview
• Scientific Name: Epipremnum Aureum
• Common Name: Pothos
• Light Requirements: Low light tolerant
Introduction
The last recommendation for low light placement is the Pothos, scientifically known as Epipremnum Aureum. This plant is one of the most popular houseplants globally, and for good reason. It’s easy to grow, easy to care for, and can be placed almost anywhere in your home. While it thrives in various light conditions, it is particularly notable for its ability to adapt to low light.
Care Tips
• Ideal Placement: Offices, bathrooms, or low-light living spaces. This plant can be grown in hanging baskets or allowed to trail from shelves.
• Watering: Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to salt buildup in the soil.
• Pest Management: Inspect for pests like spider mites and mealybugs. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary.
• Temperature and Humidity: Prefers temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and moderate humidity. It can tolerate lower humidity but benefits from occasional misting.
Growth Characteristics
• Variegation in Low Light: Pothos can handle low light but will not grow as fast as it would in brighter conditions. The variegated varieties may lose their unique coloring and turn green if they do not receive enough light.
• Adaptability: This plant is incredibly adaptable and can thrive in almost any indoor environment. Its trailing vines can add a lush, green aesthetic to any space, even in low light.
• Leaf Color: If you want the variegated variety of Pothos, make sure it gets enough light to maintain its color. In low light, the variegated leaves will gradually turn darker green.
Light Considerations
• Optimal Growth: While Pothos can survive in low light, it will thrive with more indirect light. Providing brighter conditions will encourage faster growth and more vibrant variegation.
• Maintaining Variegation: If maintaining the variegated appearance is important to you, place the plant in a spot with more light. If the loss of variegation is not a concern, Pothos can be placed in very dark areas.
Conclusion
Pothos is a resilient and adaptable plant that excels in low light conditions. Its easy care requirements and ability to thrive in various environments make it a favorite among plant enthusiasts. Whether you choose a variegated variety or a solid green one, Pothos can add a touch of greenery to the darkest corners of your home.
Overview
• Scientific Name: Ficus Elastica ‘Robusta’
• Common Names: Rubber Plant, Burgundy Fig
• Light Requirements: Tolerant of low light
Introduction
As a special bonus, we want to highlight a plant that you might not commonly see recommended for low light conditions, yet our experience shows it can handle such environments surprisingly well. This plant is the Ficus Elastica ‘Robusta’, also known as the Rubber Plant. Despite what many sources may suggest, the Rubber Plant can thrive in relatively dark spots if given the proper care.
Care Tips
• Ideal Placement: Low-light living rooms or offices. This plant can add a touch of elegance with its large, glossy leaves.
• Watering: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in low light conditions. Ensure the plant’s pot has good drainage to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.
• Fertilization: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid overfeeding.
• Pest Management: Watch for common pests such as spider mites and scale. Regularly clean the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and potential pests. Treat any infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
• Temperature and Humidity: Prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and moderate humidity. Avoid placing it near cold drafts or heating vents.
Growth Characteristics
• Low Light Adaptation: The Rubber Plant can adapt to low light conditions, but this requires careful management of its watering needs. In high light, the plant is very forgiving of watering errors, but in low light, it’s more susceptible to overwatering.
• Leaf Drop Warning: One key indicator that your Rubber Plant isn’t receiving enough light is the dropping of older leaves. If you notice that the lower or older leaves start to fall off without any other signs of distress, it’s a sign that the plant needs more light.
• Maintaining Health in Low Light: To keep your Rubber Plant healthy in low light, ensure you allow the soil to dry out between waterings. This plant does not tolerate being constantly wet, especially when not receiving ample light.
Light Considerations
• Optimal Growth: While the Rubber Plant can survive in low light, it will thrive and grow faster in brighter, indirect light. If you can, place the plant where it receives bright, indirect light for a few hours each day.
• Adjusting for Light Needs: If you notice leaf drop or slow growth, consider moving the plant to a spot with more light. Even in a low light placement, the Rubber Plant can maintain its attractive appearance with proper care.
Conclusion
The Rubber Plant, or Ficus Elastica ‘Robusta’, is a resilient and adaptable plant that can handle low light conditions better than many might expect. By carefully managing its watering needs and monitoring its light exposure, you can maintain a healthy and attractive Rubber Plant in your home. If you notice signs of light deficiency, such as leaf drop, don’t hesitate to move it to a brighter spot.
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One Response
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