Not every room has a sunny window, north-facing apartments, offices, bathrooms and hallways are all on the dim side. The plants below are the best performers in low and indirect light. A quick reality check first: no houseplant grows in true darkness, and "low light" means a spot that's still comfortably bright enough to read in, just without direct sun. Within that range, these thrive.
1. ZZ Plant
A champion of low light and neglect. The ZZ keeps its glossy good looks in dim corners and needs watering only every couple of weeks. Ideal for offices and that shelf far from the window.
2. Snake Plant
Upright, sculptural, and unbothered by low light. The snake plant simply grows more slowly in dimmer spots, and still only wants occasional watering. Full care guide →
3. Pothos
Endlessly adaptable, pothos trails or climbs in almost any light. In dimmer spots, all-green varieties (rather than highly variegated ones) hold up best.
4. Peperomia
Compact peperomias do well in bright-to-moderate indirect light and tolerate less, making them great for shelves and desks away from windows.
5. Ferns
As shade-floor plants, ferns like the Autumn Fern are naturally suited to lower, indirect light, pair that with the humidity they love and they're happy in bathrooms.
Tips for growing in low light
- Water less. Less light means slower growth and slower drying soil, overwatering is the main risk in dim rooms.
- Rotate plants occasionally so they grow evenly toward the light.
- Keep leaves clean; dust blocks what little light they get.
- Consider a grow light for very dark spots, even a small one expands your options.
Shop low-light plants
Browse our full catalog for low-light champions like the ZZ, snake plant, and pothos.
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