The Best Low-Light Houseplants for Offices, Bedrooms & Cozy Corners
Let’s clear something up right away: no houseplant can survive with no light at all. If a room is completely dark—no windows, no lamps, no ambient light—plants simply won’t make it long-term. That said, many houseplants do thrive in low-light conditions, meaning spaces with indirect light, north-facing windows, or rooms set back from natural sunlight.
If you’re looking to add greenery to an office, bedroom, hallway, or any spot that doesn’t get a ton of sun, these low-light houseplants are some of the most reliable, forgiving options out there.
What Does “Low Light” Actually Mean?
Low light doesn’t mean darkness—it means:
- No direct sun hitting the plant
- Light coming from nearby windows, not right next to them
- Bright rooms with filtered or indirect light
If you can comfortably read a book in the room during the day without turning on a lamp, you likely have enough light for low-light plants.
12 Best Low-Light Houseplants
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria / Dracaena trifasciata)
Snake plants are one of the top choices for low-light spaces. They tolerate dim conditions extremely well and don’t mind being ignored. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings—overwatering is the biggest risk. They’re perfect for bedrooms, offices, and corners far from windows.
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
ZZ plants are famous for surviving where other plants struggle. Their thick rhizomes store water, so they only need watering every few weeks. They adapt well to low light and maintain their glossy leaves with minimal care. This is a great option for offices or busy households.
3. Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen)
Aglaonemas are excellent low-light plants with beautiful patterned foliage. They prefer medium to low indirect light and consistent but moderate watering. Darker-leaved varieties are especially tolerant of lower light. Keep them away from cold drafts for best results.
4. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is incredibly adaptable and grows well in low-light conditions. While brighter light encourages faster growth, pothos will happily trail in dimmer spaces. Water when the top few inches of soil are dry. It’s an easy win for offices and shelves.
5. Philodendron (Heartleaf & Similar Types)
Philodendrons are classic low-light houseplants that are both forgiving and fast-growing. They prefer indirect light but tolerate lower levels without issue. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Their trailing habit makes them ideal for desks, bookcases, and nightstands.
6. Cast-Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
True to its name, the cast-iron plant handles low light, neglect, and temperature changes with ease. It grows slowly but steadily in dim spaces. Water only when the soil feels dry. This is one of the toughest plants you can put in a low-light room.
7. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace lilies grow well in low to medium light and are great communicators when thirsty. They prefer evenly moist soil but will droop dramatically if they need water (and recover quickly). While they may bloom less in low light, their foliage still looks great. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
8. Dracaena
Dracaenas adapt well to low-light environments and are excellent floor or tabletop plants. They prefer drying out slightly between waterings. Too much water is more harmful than too little. Many varieties also tolerate lower humidity levels indoors.
9. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
Parlor palms are slow-growing, low-light tolerant, and perfect for bedrooms and offices. They prefer indirect light and lightly moist soil. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings. Their soft, feathery look adds warmth without demanding much care.
10. Dieffenbachia
Dieffenbachia does well in medium to low indirect light and prefers consistently moist (but not soggy) soil. It’s known for its bold, patterned leaves that brighten darker spaces. Rotate the plant occasionally to keep growth even. Keep it out of reach of pets and kids.
11. Syngonium (Arrowhead Plant)
Syngoniums adapt easily to low light and grow well in compact spaces. Their arrow-shaped leaves add visual interest even without bright sun. Water when the top inch of soil dries out. They’re especially good for desks and shelves.
12. Monstera (With Realistic Expectations)
Monsteras prefer bright indirect light, but they can tolerate medium to lower light conditions. Growth will be slower and leaf splits may be less dramatic. Water when the soil partially dries out. This is a good option for brighter low-light rooms, not dark corners.
A Quick Reminder About Light
Even the best low-light plants still need some light to survive. If a space has no natural light at all, consider:
- Adding a grow light
- Placing plants near doors or borrowed light
- Choosing high-quality faux plants instead
There’s no shame in being realistic—healthy plants are happy plants.
Find Low-Light Houseplants at Prairie Gardens
Looking for the perfect plant for your office, bedroom, or low-light space? You’ll find a wide selection of low-light houseplants growing in the Prairie Gardens greenhouses, with plant experts always happy to help you choose the right fit for your space and lifestyle.
📍 Prairie Gardens
3000 W. Springfield Avenue
Champaign, IL
Stop in and let us help you bring life to even your coziest corners.
