Selecting the right low light plants can help you design your garden or find the perfect house plants for a dimly lit indoor space. While many plants thrive in bright light, there are plenty of varieties that do well in low light or indirect sunlight, making them great for shaded areas.
Don't worry about your dark, shady room—fill it with the best low light plants that are simple to grow and thrive in low light settings and indirect sunlight. These low maintenance plants require minimal care, with just occasional watering to encourage new leaves. From vibrant shade lovers to more subtle options, they're perfect for any space.
Birds Nest Fern
The Birds Nest Fern is a striking Australian-native that flourishes in shady areas, making it a fantastic choice for low light plants or low light indoor plants. Its large, wavy leaves grow outward from the center, adding a unique aesthetic to any house plant collection.
Growing up to 1.5 meters tall, this plant makes a perfect addition whether planted in pots or directly in the ground, offering a standout focal point for your garden. While it thrives in indirect light, avoid placing it in direct sunlight to prevent leaf damage. Unlike the snake plant or spider plant, the Birds Nest Fern is safe for homes with pets, as it’s non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Viola Hederacea
Another Australian native, Viola Hederacea is a charming shade-loving ground cover perfect for low light plant enthusiasts. Its delicate purple and white flowers bloom sporadically on upright stems, creating a delightful display. Sometimes referred to as the Australian Native Violet, it thrives in indirect light, making it ideal for shaded areas or as a ground cover under large trees.
Though this plant can be used as a lawn alternative, avoid areas with heavy foot traffic. It’s closely related to many familiar houseplants and does well near a window with indirect light. Ensure it’s planted in well-draining soil to promote healthy growth. While a hardy plant, its delicate parts can be toxic to pets, similar to other plants in indoor gardening.
Rex Begonia
For a bold statement in your shaded indoor or outdoor space, consider the vibrant Rex Begonia! These plants flourish in areas that don't receive too much light, making them ideal for shaded locations. While Rex Begonias can handle some bright light, they should be protected from direct sun to prevent their colorful leaves from fading.
If your space lacks natural light, Rex Begonias can also thrive under artificial light, unlike snake plants, which tolerate a broader range of conditions. With striking colors ranging from greens and greys to deep reds and purples, Rex Begonias make stunning additions to tables or shady corners. However, remember they are toxic to pets if ingested.
Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are perfect for adding a burst of vibrant color to your garden or home. Their flowers come in soft blues, pinks, and various pastel shades, with their bloom color adjusting to soil conditions. These live plants prefer bright indirect light and do well both indoors and in outdoor settings, making them versatile for different spaces. Place Hydrangeas near east-facing windows for optimal light exposure without the risk of harsh direct sunlight.
Hydrangeas can also grow upward to form dense hedges or be used in hanging planters. Their vibrant foliage adds a splash of color to any space. With proper care, a healthy root system will develop. Hydrangeas can tolerate a range of temperatures and more sun in cooler climates, though they are toxic to pets if consumed in large quantities.
Philodendron Xanadu
Philodendron Xanadu is an excellent addition to any houseplant collection. Known for its dark green, deeply-lobed leaves, this plant thrives in a variety of conditions, including lower light environments. Often seen in public spaces and gardens across the UK, Philodendron Xanadu can grow up to 8cm tall and is a hardy, low-maintenance choice.
Philodendron Xanadu is perfect for low light indoor plants, thriving in indirect light and partial shade, though it can handle full sun. This plant requires infrequent watering once established and grows well in high humidity environments. Many consider it a plant that brings good luck to homes. However, it is toxic and should not be ingested by people or pets.
