Set up a green corner in your home with these 12 houseplants that grow in low-light conditions
We all know that plants need water and sunlight to grow. Yet, just as succulents are able to live for long periods without water, there are also numerous plant species capable of thriving even in poorly illuminated/shaded spots. Species such as orchids, for example, come from a natural habitat in which the light is filtered by the foliage of the tall trees that grow around them.
If your apartment is not very brightly lit, you don't need to renounce growing/keeping plants. You will simply need to select plant species that don't need much sunlight. And even if you are not a great "green thumb", you will only need to take a few simple precautions to successfully grow these types of plants: correct watering and fertilizing is all you need to get right.
Below, we suggest 12 plant species that will thrive even if your home is dimly lit:
1. Aspidistra
A perfect plant for beginners, Aspidistra is suitable for both indoors and outdoors cultivation and is characterized by large green, leathery leaves. Its natural habitat is a tough one, therefore it is very adaptable: it tolerates the cold well but does not do well in very high temperatures. It also does not like direct sunlight, which is why you can successfully grow it in protected, cool places, such as under the stairs, entrance halls and verandas.
2. Anthurium
Anthurium is a highly decorative plant due to its lush, intense green foliage and its beautiful, large flowers. This plant needs a bright environment but must not exposed to direct sunlight. In winter, it will not tolerate temperatures below 15 degrees C. Spray its leaves regularly with distilled water: being a tropical plant, it requires a high levels of humidity to thrive.
3. Dracaena marginata
Amongst the most beloved of houseplants for its high decorative power, the Dracaena is a shrub that, in nature, reaches 2 meters in height (but will adapt its height to pot size). It loves sunlight and therefore its ideal spot is next to a window. But be careful not to expose it to cold drafts in winter and excessive heat and strong sunlight in summer.
4. Kenzia
A very slow growing tropical palm, a potted Kenzia can reach 3 meters in height and 2 meters in diameter and is highly sought after for decorative purposes. Easy to grow, Kenzia benefits from bright, indirect light, but can also thrive in shaded areas.
5. Pilea peperomioides
Also known as the Chinese Money Plant, Pilea is characterized by large round leaves which give it a unique look. Fairly easy to grow, it loves bright places but not direct sunlight. It also prefers higher levels of humidity.
6. Succulents
Well known for their extreme adaptability and ease of cultivation, succulents come from desert environments and thrive in direct sunlight; however, they are perfectly capable of adapting to conditions of partial shade, especially in winter during their dormant phase.
7. Chamaedorea elegans
A palm native to Central and South America, the Chamaedora is characterized by its longevity and very slow growth. Accustomed to bright spots (but not direct sunlight), the Chamaedora also adapts well to the shade. However, it should not be kept in dark areas or exposed to direct sunlight.
8. Philodendron
Another very popular houseplant due to its ease of cultivation, the Philodendron grows quickly and can be used as a climber/creeper. Its leaves are rather delicate, which could burn in direct sunlight. For this reason, it is necessary to place it in a bright spot, but away from direct sunlight.
9. Sanseveria cylindrica
Characterized by fleshy and cylindrical leaves, Sanseveria cylidrica is a lesser-known variety of Mother-in-Law's Tongue. Like its more famous relative, Sanseveria trifasciata, this plant is one of the easiest houseplants to grow and is very adaptable: although it loves bright places, it can thrive in direct sunlight or dimly lit spots.
10. Ficus elastica
Also known as the rubber tree, Ficus elastica experienced great popularity in the 80s and 90s, spreading into almost all offices and living rooms. This plant is also highly appreciated for its ability to keep the air clean and likes bright spots (but not direct sunlight). In summer, it can be moved to the balcony or garden, but this exposure must be done gradually.
11. Asplenium
Also called the nest fern, Asplenium is an epiphytic plant (which does not need soil) and its natural habitat is shady and humid. A good-luck plant with a well-known ability to keep the air clean, Asplenium grows very slowly and is also low-maintenance: you just need to ensure the correct humidity levels are provided.
12. Maranta
Maranta is a perennial herbaceous plant originating from the equatorial forests of Brazil. During daylight hours, it rolls up its leaves to retain humidity. It must be grown only in the shade and with mild temperatures (with no exposure to cold drafts in winter).
Which of these plants will you choose for your apartment?
