If you’ve always wanted lush, green plants in your home but feel discouraged because your space doesn’t get much natural light — don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many of us live in apartments, basements, or houses shaded by tall trees where sunlight struggles to reach inside. The good news? There are plenty of indoor plants that thrive in low-light or even no direct sunlight. These leafy companions not only survive but also bring warmth, charm, and a healthy atmosphere to your home.
In this post, I’ll share my favorite 17 indoor plants that don’t need sunlight to thrive. Over the years, I’ve tested these in corners, bathrooms, hallways, and cozy living spaces, and they continue to surprise me with their resilience. You’ll also get tips on watering, placement, and easy care so you can keep them happy without stressing.
So let’s dive into the world of shadow-loving plants that can make your home feel like a fresh, green sanctuary — even in the darkest corners!
1. Snake Plant (Mother-in-Law’s Tongue)
Snake plants are one of my absolute favorites because they’re practically indestructible. These upright, sword-shaped leaves look sleek and modern in almost any home style — from boho to minimalistic. They tolerate low light incredibly well and only need water every 2–3 weeks. I keep one in my hallway where no direct sunlight reaches, and it still looks vibrant.
The best part? Snake plants are natural air purifiers, making them ideal for bedrooms where you want fresh, clean air. Just avoid overwatering — soggy soil is their biggest enemy. Place them in a simple ceramic or woven basket planter, and you’ll have a chic green accent that doesn’t complain about the dark.
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is the definition of “set it and forget it.” Its waxy, dark green leaves make it look almost fake (in the best way possible). I love placing my ZZ plant in low-light spots like the corner of my office, where it gives a professional and calming vibe.
This plant thrives on neglect — seriously, if you forget to water it for weeks, it still pushes out new shoots. It’s perfect for busy homeowners, renters, or even college students who want greenery without constant care. The only thing to remember is that it prefers well-drained soil and hates soggy roots.
3. Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)
If you want cascading greenery without sunlight stress, pothos is your best bet. This trailing vine looks stunning on bookshelves, windowless bathrooms, or hanging from macramé planters. The golden or neon varieties brighten up dim corners instantly.
I’ve had pothos survive in places where I barely remembered they were there. They thrive on occasional watering and adapt well to artificial lighting. Plus, they’re super easy to propagate — just snip a vine, pop it in water, and watch new roots form.
4. Peace Lily
Peace lilies are one of the rare low-light plants that also bloom indoors. Their glossy leaves and white flowers bring elegance to any corner. I keep one in my living room away from windows, and it still gives me blooms every few months.
They’re also excellent natural air purifiers, removing toxins from the air. Just keep the soil slightly moist and mist the leaves occasionally if the air is too dry. A peace lily can transform a gloomy corner into a serene focal point.
5. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra)
The cast iron plant earned its name because it’s nearly impossible to kill. It thrives in deep shade, tolerates neglect, and grows slowly but steadily. I placed mine in the entryway under the staircase, and it has stayed healthy for years.
Its broad, dark-green leaves bring a classic elegance that pairs well with traditional or rustic interiors. If you’re someone who constantly forgets to water plants, this one won’t hold it against you.
6. Lucky Bamboo
Lucky bamboo isn’t bamboo at all, but it sure adds a touch of zen to your space. It grows well in water-filled glass vases, making it perfect for desks, shelves, or even bathroom counters with no sunlight.
I love how versatile it is — you can grow it straight, twisted, or braided for a more decorative look. Add a few pebbles at the bottom of the vase, change the water every couple of weeks, and you’ll have a low-maintenance, stylish plant.
7. Parlor Palm
For those who want a touch of tropical greenery indoors, the parlor palm is a must. It thrives in indirect or artificial light and grows into a graceful clump of feathery fronds. Mine sits in a basket planter in my bedroom corner, and it gives the room a fresh, resort-like feel.
It doesn’t need much attention — just water when the soil feels dry and wipe down the fronds occasionally to keep them dust-free. Parlor palms are also non-toxic, making them safe for homes with pets.
8. Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen)
If you want a splash of color in your low-light home, aglaonema is a fantastic choice. The leaves come in shades of green, silver, red, or even pink — brightening up spaces that feel dull.
I once kept a pink-variegated aglaonema in my bathroom with no windows, and it thrived beautifully under just fluorescent lighting. These plants adapt well and add that “designer touch” without requiring constant care.
9. Philodendron
Philodendrons are incredibly forgiving, making them perfect for beginner plant parents. Whether trailing or climbing, they adjust well to low light. I keep mine in a hallway where they trail along a shelf, creating a jungle-like vibe.
They love a bit of humidity but otherwise don’t ask for much. Give them occasional pruning to keep them bushy, and they’ll reward you with lush, heart-shaped leaves.
10. Ferns (Boston Fern, Maidenhair Fern)
Ferns thrive in humidity and indirect light, making them ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. I’ve had the best luck with Boston ferns near my shower — the steam keeps them lush and happy.
They do need consistent moisture, so don’t let the soil dry out completely. Mist them often and you’ll be rewarded with fresh, airy greenery that instantly makes your space feel alive.
11. Dracaena
Dracaena plants bring structure and height to dim corners. Their tall, cane-like stems topped with clusters of leaves make them feel like mini indoor trees.
I placed one beside my TV unit in the living room where it only gets lamp light, and it has grown steadily for years. Just keep the soil moderately moist and occasionally trim yellowing leaves.
12. Spider Plant
Spider plants are cheerful and easy to care for. Their long, arching leaves look playful, and they send out baby “spiderettes” that can be propagated into new plants.
I love keeping spider plants on shelves or plant stands in my dining room. They add a bright green splash, even without sunlight. Plus, NASA listed them among the best air-purifying plants.
13. Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)
Dieffenbachia has large, patterned leaves that make a statement in any room. It loves indirect light but can easily adapt to low-light areas.
I’ve used it to fill an empty living room corner where nothing else seemed to grow. Its broad leaves create a lush, tropical look without needing sunlight. Just keep it out of reach of pets, as it can be toxic.
14. Money Plant (Jade Plant Alternative)
Money plants (especially the vining type, not the succulent jade) are symbols of prosperity and adapt beautifully to shade. I’ve seen them trailing along windowsills or even climbing moss poles indoors.
They’re also believed to bring good luck, which makes them a favorite gift. Water sparingly, and they’ll grow vigorously even under artificial light.
15. Calathea (Prayer Plant Family)
Calatheas are known for their striking patterned leaves that fold up at night (like they’re “praying”). They prefer indirect light and humidity, making them perfect for low-light corners.
I keep mine near a humidifier in my bedroom, and its leaves still look painted with intricate green and purple designs. It does like consistent moisture, so keep an eye on watering.
16. Aloe Vera (Under Artificial Light)
Most people think aloe needs direct sunlight, but it can thrive under artificial grow lights in dim homes. I keep a small aloe pot in my kitchen where it gets fluorescent light, and it stays plump and healthy.
The bonus is that you can snip off leaves for soothing skin gel whenever needed. It’s both decorative and practical.
17. Rubber Plant
Rubber plants grow tall and sturdy with large glossy leaves that add bold texture to interiors. While they love bright light, they also adapt surprisingly well to low light.
I placed one in my study where it only gets soft lamp light, and it continues to grow steadily. They add a classy, modern feel and make excellent statement plants.
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- If you enjoy creating lush green spaces, don’t miss our tips on Indoor Plants That Change Color.
- For outdoor inspiration, check out our guide on Foundation Plants for Front of House Landscaping.