House plants are a wonderful way to bring a touch of nature into your home. Even if you don’t have much experience with indoor gardening, there are plenty of low light plants that are easy to care for and grow. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or a beginner, these ten low light house plants are sure to add life and beauty to your living space.
Low Light House Plants: A Beginner’s Guide
Before we dive into the specific plants, let’s take some time to discuss the concept of “low light”. When we say a plant requires “low light,” we are referring to plants that can thrive in areas with less direct sunlight. This could be a spot in your home that receives only indirect light, or a room with minimal windows and natural light. Choosing low light plants is a great option for beginners because they are typically very forgiving of mistakes, and they don’t require a lot of special care or attention.
It’s important to note that while low light plants can survive in areas with less direct sunlight, they still need some light to grow. It’s recommended to place them near a window that receives some natural light, or to supplement their light with artificial sources such as grow lights. Additionally, some low light plants may still require specific care, such as regular watering or fertilizing. It’s important to research the specific needs of each plant before bringing them into your home.
Understanding the Meaning of Low Light for Plants
To better understand what “low light” means for plants, we can look at the different levels of light intensity. Bright light indicates a location with direct sunlight, like a sunny windowsill. Moderate light is a spot that receives some direct sunlight, but mostly indirect. And low light is a spot that receives only indirect light, like a corner of a room away from windows.
It’s important to note that not all plants require the same level of light. Some plants, like succulents and cacti, thrive in bright, direct sunlight, while others, like ferns and snake plants, can survive in low light conditions. However, even plants that can survive in low light may not thrive or grow as quickly as they would in brighter conditions. It’s important to research the specific light requirements of your plants to ensure they are getting the appropriate amount of light for their growth and health.
9 Low Light Plants That Thrive in Shade
Now that we have a better idea of what low light means for plants, let’s take a closer look at some specific varieties that are great for beginners. These nine plants are all great options for low light spaces:
Peace Lily: The Perfect Low Light House Plant
The peace lily is a classic low light house plant that is both beautiful and easy to care for. It has large, shiny green leaves, and produces striking white flowers that can last for months. Peace lilies prefer moderate to low light, and they don’t need a lot of water. In fact, overwatering can harm them, so be sure to let the soil dry out slightly before watering again.
Snake Plant: A Low Maintenance Beauty
The snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, is another great low light option. It has tall, upright leaves and can grow in a variety of conditions, including low light. Snake plants are very low maintenance, and can even tolerate neglect! They prefer drier soil, so be sure not to overwater.
African Milk Tree: A Unique Addition to Your Collection
The African milk tree is a unique and intriguing low light plant that can add some exotic flair to your home. It has thick, fleshy stems and leaves, and can grow up to six feet tall! While it does prefer bright, indirect light, it can also tolerate lower light conditions. Like many low light plants, it prefers well-draining soil and doesn’t need a lot of water.
Variegated Red Edge Peperomia: A Colorful Low Light Option
This peperomia has beautiful green and red leaves that add a pop of color to any space. It is a low growing plant that can be kept small in a pot, or allowed to trail down the sides of a hanging basket. The variegated red edge peperomia prefers a low to moderate light and well-draining soil.
Watermelon Peperomia: A Cute and Quirky Choice
The watermelon peperomia is another adorable option for a low light spot. It has small, round leaves that look like tiny watermelons, and can be a conversation starter for guests. This plant prefers moderate to low light and likes to be kept moist but not overwatered.
Money Tree: Bringing Good Luck and Greenery to Your Home
The money tree is a popular low light plant that is believed to bring good luck and fortune to those who care for it. It has slender stems and leaves that can be braided together for a unique look. Money trees prefer low to moderate light and should be watered only when the top inch of soil is dry.
Heartleaf Philodendron: A Classic Low Light House Plant
The heartleaf philodendron is a classic low light house plant that is beloved for its vining and trailing habit. It has heart-shaped leaves and can be grown in a hanging basket or trained to climb a trellis. Heartleaf philodendrons prefer low to moderate light and don’t need a lot of water.
Swiss Cheese Plant: Making a Statement in Your Home Decor
The Swiss cheese plant, also known as monstera deliciosa, is a large and leafy low light plant that can make a stunning statement in any home. Its unique leaves have lots of holes and splits, which give it a distinctive look. The Swiss cheese plant prefers low to moderate light and likes to be watered regularly.
Weeping Fig: A Low Light Tree That Adds Elegance to Any Room
The weeping fig, or ficus tree, is a low light option for those who want a larger, more dramatic plant in their home. It has shiny green leaves and a graceful, weeping habit. The weeping fig prefers moderate to low light and should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry.
Spider Plant: A Low Light Option for Air Purification
The spider plant is a great low light option for those who want to improve the air quality in their home. It has long, narrow leaves that can grow up to two feet long, and produces small white flowers. Spider plants prefer low to moderate light and should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. They are also known for their ability to remove toxins from the air, making them a great addition to any home.
Conclusion
These ten low light house plants are all great options for beginners who want to start adding some greenery to their home. Whether you choose a classic peace lily or a unique African milk tree, these plants are sure to thrive in a low light environment with minimal care. Remember to choose well-draining soil, be mindful of watering, and enjoy the beauty and benefits of your new plants.
Additionally, it’s important to note that these low light house plants not only add aesthetic value to your home, but they also have numerous health benefits. They can improve air quality by removing toxins and pollutants, boost mood and productivity, and even reduce stress levels. So not only will you be adding some greenery to your space, but you’ll also be improving your overall well-being.
