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Which are the Best Low Light Houseplants?

Patti Kate
Patti Kate

Some plants that will thrive under minimal light are bamboo plants, spider plants and ferns. Although it doesn't hurt to ensure these plants receive some degree of daylight or sunshine, they should basically do well in a shady area of the house. Golden pothos vine is another good choice that can adapt well without being kept in a sunny location.

Many individuals have chosen to keep lucky bamboo plants in their homes as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. These low-light houseplants have become popular as trendy housewarming gifts as well. It is an extremely adaptable and hearty member of the lily family of plants. Since its natural habitat is that of the dark forested area of Asia, it is a good choice for those who have limited lighting or artificial light to accommodate their plants.

The pothos plant is a low-growing, low-light vine that can reach 10 feet in length.
The pothos plant is a low-growing, low-light vine that can reach 10 feet in length.

Caring for the lucky bamboo is relatively basic. Watering it weekly with non-fluoridated water is recommended for a healthy appearance. The use of a fertilizer can help it thrive as well. An important thing for individuals to remember is these low-light houseplants do not thrive for extended periods in direct sunlight.

For low-light areas, spider plants are a versatile choice. Many people find their appearance will enhance their indoor garden, and caring for them is simple as well. A good choice for low-light houseplants, the spider's botanical name is chlorophytum comosum. Their long stalks grow abundantly downward, showing the appearance of spider-like limbs, hence the name. These South African plants do well in moderate sunlight or artificial light, although intense heat should be avoided.

Low-light houseplants such as the golden pothos vine is probably one of the most substantial varieties for the gardener who has little time for daily care. Also known as Devil's Ivy, this species grows in abundance in the Solomon Islands. They thrive in moderate room temperatures and do not require a good deal of daily sunlight. Their adaptability makes them a good choice for an office setting or bedroom. A typical monthly feeding of a quality fertilizer generally keeps this vine well-nourished.

When it comes to versatility and resiliency, the snake plant is considered to be a top choice. A common nickname for this plant is Mother-In-Law's tongue. Considered a good variety among low light houseplants, their sturdy leaves can take a good deal of abuse and still remain healthy.

What makes the snake plant so versatile is that it will thrive in bright lighting conditions or low-light shade. The plant can be watered weekly; however between waterings, it is a good idea to let the soil become thoroughly dry. The one drawback for some concerned individuals is the toxicity of the snake plant. If consumed, it can be poisonous; therefore, this plant needs to be located in such a place where pets and children cannot have access.

Discussion Comments

Fa5t3r

@pleonasm - Lucky bamboo practically looks after itself. If you want something that's really low maintenance, you could also try an air plant, since they don't need any real care, but they aren't really low light plants.

I think it's good to keep a couple of plants in each room, just because it improves the air quality if you do.

pleonasm

@clintflint - Spider plants are great for kids as well because they are so easy to share with others. I can remember giving some to my friends when they visited my house.

But I didn't really like spider plants all that much. I was more of a fan of Venus fly traps. They can survive in low light as well, although I don't think they are as hardy as spider plants and, of course, you've got to make sure they are kept supplied with insects.

I think these days I would stick with an indoor bamboo or something simple if I wanted to get a houseplant, but I'm happier spending my time at the park where I don't have any responsibility to keep the green things alive.

clintflint

I used to love spider plants when I was a kid. I had a whole bunch of them in my room and throughout the house. They were all descended from a little offshoot my grandmother gave me.

They're actually a perfect low light house plant to give to a kid, because they are difficult to kill. I soon decided I was ready for something more advanced and insisted my parents give me a little bonsai tree for my birthday. It died within a month because I wasn't actually all that good at taking care of plants. But my spider plants lived on.

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    • The pothos plant is a low-growing, low-light vine that can reach 10 feet in length.
      The pothos plant is a low-growing, low-light vine that can reach 10 feet in length.