Give it some support and watch it gracefully climb, or place it in a hanging planter to appreciate its lovely tendrils. Pothos, commonly known as Devil’s Ivy, is a hardy plant that can even be used to decorate the walls of your bathroom. This indoor plant can thrive without sunshine and can also remove carbon monoxide from the air. Trim the vines and water the pothos on a regular basis to keep it looking lush and full.
Can pothos survive in a windowless room?
Photosynthesize, produce flowers and fruit, and maintain overall health, plants require sunlight. Plants, on the other hand, are incredibly adaptive, and many healthy examples make excellent windowless houseplants. Choose a tried and true indoor specimen that will green up your space, clean your air and lend an aura of nature to any sterile indoor setting.
You don’t have to work in a warehouse or in the basement of a skyscraper to be exposed to low light indoors. Many homes can have lighting challenges as a result of room arrangement or shadowing from trees outside.
Fully shaded or semi-shady areas are ideal for windowless houseplants. Consider the size of the plant before purchasing it. A dracaena, for example, can grow quite tall, as can parlor palms.
Another thing to consider is the rate of growth. Choose a plant with a fast growth rate that will fill your space with foliage if you desire a large plant. Vining plants are usually a good choice. Try a heart-leaved philodendron or golden pothos for a hanging or trailing plant. Try a container of hens and chicks if you just want a tiny boy to stare at thoughtfully.
Can pothos live in the dark?
The arrowhead plant is a type of plant that grows in the United States ( Syngonium podophyllum ). This compact, bushy plant, sometimes known as nephthytis, has arrowhead-shaped light green leaves with creamy white variegations. The arrowhead is nearly tough to destroy, and it can be utilized as a table centerpiece or as a hanging plant.
To keep it from becoming long and straggly, you’ll need to cut it frequently. Yellow leaves will also appear on a regular basis. Simply pinch them off; they’re normal. You may cultivate arrowhead plants from stem cuttings, which will thrive in a jar of water for as long as a year.
* Evergreen in China ( Aglaonema spp .). Almost every nursery, flower store, garden center, or supermarketindeed, almost wherever plants are soldwill have at least two or three types. This plant is difficult to surpass when it comes to combining durability with ornamental utility. The care for all of the dozens of different types is the same: simple.
This plant not only thrives in low light, but too much light might be harmful. The leaves will become pale yellow if exposed to direct sunlight. Your Chinese evergreen will frequently surprise you with a bonus. It may only produce white spathes, which are leaflike structures that encircle a white flower cluster, as well as bright red, yellow, and orange berries.
* Bella Dwarf Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
This stunning plant is a miniature tree palm with slim stems, little fronds, and narrow, dark-green leaves. Despite its frail appearance, the dwarf palm can withstand poor light, dry soil, and even drafts. It grows slowly and is commonly used in dish gardens and terrariums, but it can develop to be a stunning floor plant for a dark nook if allowed to grow to three or four feet.
* Howeia forsteriana (Kentia palm)
A beautiful, long-lasting indoor tree. It may grow up to 15 feet indoors and is usually sold with four stalks per pot. Its large, elegant fronds and durable, dark-green pinnate leaves make it a remarkable addition to any design.
Keep your kentia palm in a pot since it will die if you transfer it into a larger container. Mist the soil frequently to keep it mildly wet. It’s important to keep in mind that kentia palms are often pricey. A four- or five-foot kentia will set you back $60 to $70, while a ten-footer would set you back well over $100. They have the potential to last for many years.
* Devil’s Ivy, also known as Pothos ( Scindapsus aureus ). This philodendron’s first cousin is a true champion among low-maintenance plants. The pothos can endure low light, dry circumstances, and semi-neglect thanks to its large, oval, waxy green leaves, yet shade may limit its white and yellow variegations. It should be pruned every now and again to foster full, bushy growth, and cuttings can be kept in water for a year or more.
Your pothos needs to be watered only when the soil is bone dry, and will droop significantly when it’s time to water.
* The Snake Plant ( Sansevieria laurentii ). The snake plant, a succulent, is also known as mother-in-tongue law’s since it cannot be killed (I did not make up this “joke”). Your snake plant may go for weeks without water or food if it is exposed to very low light.
Sanseviera comes in a variety of sizes and shapes, with the most common having tall, stiff, pointed stalks with a yellow border, but there are also low-growing types that make excellent tabletop plants.
* Spathiphyllum is a plant that belongs to the genus Spathiphyllum ( Spathiphyllum spp .). This bushy houseplant with dark-green, lustrous foliage, often known as peace lily, will not only survive low light but may even flower. The peace lily produces white, lilylike blooms almost all year in bright light, but even in a gloomy area, the chances of getting a blossom are roughly 50-50.
A leaf or two on your peace lily will occasionally turn brown at the tip. Moreover, complete leaves may become brown or yellow. This is quite normal. Simply clip the leaves off with scissors if this happens. New leaves will always replace the ones that have fallen.
The prayer plant (Maranta leuconeura), table fern (Pteris spp. ), philodendron, bird’s-nest fern (Asplenium nidus), and if you need a tall tree for a darkish corner, the corn plant (Dracaena massangeana) or the dragon plant will perform nicely ( D. marginata ).
Bromeliad (Bromeliaceae)
Bromeliads are tropical plants that have brightly colored flowers. They’re a popular houseplant because of their distinct appearance and tropical atmosphere. Depending on the species, bromeliads look best on shelves, tabletops, or even the floor.
The majority of bromeliad species prefer bright indirect sunshine to direct sunlight. The sun does not directly strike the plant, thus it receives indirect light. If your plant were outside directly in the sun, or if you planted it next to an open window with the sun shining directly on it, that would be an example of direct light. The leaves of a bromeliad can be damaged by prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. It’s preferable to keep it close to a window, but not right in front of it. If natural light is not available, bromeliads can flourish under fluorescent lights.
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese evergreen plants are one of the numerous indoor plants that do not require sunshine. Many people recommend it as a good plant to start with if you’re new to houseplant care. Flowers that resemble calla lilies are produced by older Chinese evergreens, and they look best on the floor adjacent to furniture and in open spaces in the home. Younger Chinese evergreens are small enough to decorate a desk, tabletop, or shelf. Chinese evergreen plants are also on NASA’s list of air-filtering houseplants, making them both easy to care for and healthful selections for your home!
The solar requirements of the Chinese evergreen are determined by the color of its leaves. Generally speaking, if you have a plant with darker leaves, it prefers low light. Medium light is preferred by varieties with lighter-colored leaves, such as pink or orange. To avoid burned foliage, Chinese evergreen, like many other plants on this list, should not be placed in direct sunlight.
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
Because of its hardiness, the cast iron plant is often referred to as the iron plant. It can withstand a broad range of conditions, making it an excellent choice for green thumbs and busy plant owners. Its deep green leaves are ideal for adding a natural touch to any part of the space.
Cast irons are low-light plants that can thrive in practically any environment. They take a long time to grow, yet they are extremely difficult to kill. The sole need is that they be kept out of direct sunlight to prevent scorching or browning of its leaves. If you want to give your cast iron plant some extra attention, wash down the leaves with a moist cloth once a week to keep the dust off. Clean leaves make it easier for it to absorb the light and all of its nutrients.
Dracaena (Dracaena)
The dracaena is a typical houseplant that requires little maintenance. This plant comes in a variety of colors and looks excellent on shelves, tables, and floors. The larger kinds, such as the dracaena massangeana, have a tree-like appearance and are ideal for use as floor decor.
Dracaenas thrive in bright, indirect light, although they can also thrive in low and medium light. Dracaenas are also one of the best air-purifying plants for removing toxins from your home. Take a look at our dracaena care guide for additional information on how to properly care for your dracaena.
Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)
Dumb canes are attractive plants that can be found in both residential and commercial settings. Because all portions of the plant are poisonous, they are known as stupid canes. As a result, pets and children should be kept away from this plant. If eaten, it can cause swelling and other difficulties, and if its sap comes into contact with the skin, it can cause itching. This plant’s hazard is lessened when handled carefully with minimum touch.
Depending on the species, dumb canes can thrive in both low and high filtered light. Sunlight that passes through something else, such as a sheer curtain or a window, is referred to as filtered light. Most species can survive in low-filtered light, but depending on the variety, they may not be able to thrive. Check to see what species of dumb cane you have to see what kind of light it prefers.
English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English ivy is a lovely climbing plant that can transform any plain wall into a work of art. Ivy looks beautiful on trellises, fences, and other structures where its vines can flourish. If you’re starting from seed, keep in mind that the vines will take a number of years to grow.
Although English ivy prefers strong indirect light, it may still thrive in dim light. The more light this ivy receives, the more vibrant the color of its leaves will become. Direct light, on the other hand, can kill it. Many additional ivy kinds, such as the pothos described below, thrive in shaded areas and indirect light.
Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)
Maidenhair ferns are beautiful plants that add elegance to any space, but they’re also quite simple to destroy! However, the lovely foliage and overall appearance of this plant are well worth the extra effort. Indirect sunlight is ideal for several fern types, including the Boston fern and the bird’s nest fern.
Direct sunlight is harmful to maidenhair ferns, which prefer indirect, bright light. They also need high humidity and dislike dry soil, so keep them damp but not soggy to prevent root rot. In addition, these plants prefer distilled water to hard water (a.k.a. water that usually comes from the sink).
Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
Parlor palms are lush plants that work well in a dining room or living room setting. Having a parlor palm in the Victorian era was a sign of wealth for a family. The parlor palm, while no longer as exclusive in today’s world, nonetheless adds a classy touch to any area it inhabits.
Low light is okay for parlor palms, but medium light is ideal. They also prefer shadier areas over brighter areas, so don’t put them too close to a window. If artificial light is required, parlor palms can thrive.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
A peace lily, contrary to popular perception, is not a genuine lily at all. The white “petal” that sprouts around the yellow bloom is actually a leaf bract. Next time you see one, take a closer look! Peace lilies are mainly utilized as floor décor because they can grow to be 24 to 40 inches tall.
Low to medium light is ideal for peace lilies, although they can also flourish under fluorescent light. The more light the peace lilies receive, the more white blossoms they will produce. They can survive in low-light environments, although they are far less likely to blossom. The peace lily is also one of the most effective plants for air purification. Take a look at our peace lily care guide to get more in-depth information on caring for your peace lily.
Peacock Plant (Calathea makoyana)
Cathedral windows, rattlesnake plant, and zebra plant are all names for the peacock plant. These names come from its lovely foliage, which some claim is reminiscent of peacock feathers. Peacock plants are known for being flashy and fussy when it comes to their upkeep. Humidity, distilled or rainwater, and moist (but not damp) soil are all favorites.
Peacock plants require low to medium light and will develop sad leaves if exposed to too much direct light. The pale streaks on the leaves indicate that this plant has received too much sunlight. When searching around for a peacock plant, its preferable to pick a healthier variety and to avoid lesser plants with brown foliage. If you start with a healthy peacock plant, you’ll have a better chance of raising a healthy one.
Peperomia is a term used to describe a condition in which (Peperomia)
Peperomia are little plants that add a pop of color to your desk or table. There are more than 1000 types of peperomias found mostly in South and Central America. These plants enjoy dry soil and, thanks to their thick leaves, can go a few days without watering. The leaves are gray, crimson, cream, and green in color.
These plants thrive in bright, indirect light, but they can also thrive in fluorescent lighting. If necessary, Peperomias can thrive in slightly shady regions. Avoid direct light to deter scorched leaves.
Philodendron (Philodendron)
Philodendrons are noted for their vibrant foliage and distinctive appearance. The heartleaf philodendron, in particular, is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of situations with little attention, including low light. Philodendrons exist in climbing and non-climbing forms and can grow as tall as three feet and as wide as six feet with adequate care.
Philodendrons love bright, indirect light, although they can also grow in moderate shade. If your philodendron has long, narrow stems with large gaps between the leaves, be cautious. This indicates that your philodendron is receiving insufficient light and should be relocated to a brighter location. Take a look at our philodendron care guide for additional information on how to properly care for your plant.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos plants are excellent starter plants for anyone who is just getting started with plant care. These plants may produce long, gorgeous vines that can be used to accent walls and give any room a tropical vibe. As a result, they’re best suited to being cultivated as hanging plants or potted on a desk.
Pothos plants thrive in medium to low light inside, although they may also survive in low light. Their leaves can turn yellow if exposed to too much direct light, while their gorgeous leaves will turn pale if exposed to little light. Take a look at our pothos care guide for additional information on how to properly care for your pothos.
Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
When night falls, the leaves of the prayer plant fold up like hands ready to pray. The pink veins and oval leaves of this plant are well-known. Because of their distinctive leaves, prayer plants look lovely in hanging baskets.
Prayer plants love bright, indirect light, although they can also thrive in low-light environments. However, if the leaves do not receive enough light during the day, they will close and not reopen in the evening. If this plant does not receive enough light, its leaves will begin to fade. It prefers damp soil and high humidity.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Mother-in-tongue law’s is another name for snake plants. The sharp point of the leaf is said to be the source of this term. It was given the name “snake” plant because of its striped hue, which resembles the skin of a snake. They are towering plants that can resist even the most neglectful of plant parents. Even after a few weeks of neglect, snake plants can maintain their strong appearance.
Snake plants may grow in a variety of light settings, but they prefer indirect light. Because they rot easily, it’s critical to allow their soil dry between waterings. Check out our snake plant care guide for more information on how to properly care for your snake plant.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants have long, slender leaves that arch outward from their roots. Its leaf mimic the legs of a spider. Spider ivy and ribbon plant are two other names for spider plants. When properly cared for, these plants can produce small white flowers and sprout spiderettes, or baby spider plants that can be repotted to produce more spider plants.
Spider plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight but can survive in low-light conditions. These plants can flourish in a mix of fluorescent and natural light environments. Browning leaves are a common occurrence in spider plants. This is a result of water fluoride exposure. Watering your plant with distilled or rain water will help prevent browning and keep it looking healthy.
Staghorn Fern (Platycerium)
Staghorn ferns are showy plants that are a little finicky about their living circumstances. Antelope ears and elkhorn fern are two more names for the staghorn fern. If you want a low-light plant with a distinctive appearance, the staghorn fern is ideal.
These plants do not enjoy direct sunlight and prefer bright, indirect, or filtered light. Because this plant cannot survive in artificial light, it is advisable to arrange it where it will receive the most natural sunshine without blocking the sun’s beams. It prefers moist, but not extremely damp soil, just like numerous other high-maintenance plants on this list.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcasi)
The ZZ plant is one of the hardiest plants around and is practically impossible to kill. It is one of the best plants for anyone in desperate need of some green because of its luxuriant foliage and robust nature. It also has waxy leaves that give it a lustrous sheen. It’s a terrific plant to have if you want to adorn an empty place in your home or need another companion to add to your houseplant collection.
The ZZ plant prefers bright, indirect light, but it can also survive in low light. It can also survive in settings with little natural light and only a few fluorescent bulbs. It dislikes direct sunlight and will develop yellow, curled leaves if exposed to too much.
How do you keep indoor plants alive without sunlight?
LED lights are the safest and easiest to use for growing plants in the absence of sunlight. They emit very little heat, and changing the color of light output is significantly easier than changing the color of fluorescent or HPS lights.
Can pothos live in artificial light?
Moderate light is ideal for pothos plants. Your plant’s appearance and growth rate might be affected by too little or too much light.
Too much light can scorch the plant and cause the attractive, brilliant green leaves to turn pale yellow. If you want to place your pothos in front of a bright window, make sure it’s at least a few feet away. A sheer curtain can also be used to screen the light.
Colors can fade if there isn’t enough light. Plants with gold, white, or pale yellow variegation will most likely turn a solid, pale green color. Although pothos can survive low light, it benefits from a few hours of moderate light every day.
Artificial light isn’t good for many plants, yet artificial light for pothos works extremely well. Pothos is a wonderful choice if you work in an office.
Can plants survive with artificial light?
If you want to cultivate houseplants indoors, you’ll notice that some of your rooms lack natural light. Sunlight has the ideal wavelength balance for plant growth and blooming, however artificial light can also be used to assist your plants. In reality, with enough artificial light, low-light foliage plants like pothos and peace lily may thrive in windowless offices.
How long can houseplants survive without light?
Light is required by plants in order for them to produce food and energy. They will begin to show signs of insufficiency and eventually perish if they are not exposed to light. Plants, on the other hand, can live if some accommodations are made to provide them with a source of light.
A plant’s ability to survive without light varies from 4 to 20 days, depending on the amount of light it receives on a regular basis. Low-light plants can last anywhere from 12 to 20 days, whereas light-loving plants only live for 4 to 10 days. Plants will succumb to chlorosis if they are not exposed to light.
Can a snake plant survive without light?
These indoor types are ideal for novice gardeners. Our top 10 low-light houseplants flourish in a variety of environments and are quite easy to care for.
This plant’s patterned and colorful leaves make it a charming complement to any area; it thrives in medium to low light and requires continuous watering to thrive.
The Dumb Cane plant is a popular choice among gardeners since it thrives in regular potting soil, average indoor temperatures, and average humidity. The leaves of this plant are variegated in greens and cream colors, and it can grow up to 5 feet tall.
Another plant that is nearly impossible to kill is the Dragon Tree. The Dracaena Marginata does not tolerate direct sunlight or excessive irrigation.
This is without a doubt one of the most popular home plants, and it’s also one of the easiest to grow. It can withstand a great deal of neglect and thrives in indirect sunshine.
This darling of a plant may live happily indoors all year, but when the weather permits, they prefer a brief visit outside in a shady place.
This tropical houseplant can grow in humid environments like restrooms and can even survive on fluorescent light alone. Any bathroom can benefit from a tiny Bromeliad on the vanity!
This popular shade-loving house plant is extremely low-maintenance and requires no watering between waterings. It is exceedingly easy to grow and re-blooms multiple times a year.
Even the most inexperienced “house gardener” may seem like a pro with the Chinese Evergreen. This tropical foliage plant can withstand low light, dry air, and drought, making it one of the most hardy houseplants.
The Snake Plant is a simple plant to care for. These plants can be neglected for weeks at a time and yet seem fresh because to their stripy leaves and architectural design. They can also withstand low light levels, drought, and have few insect problems. That’s the kind of plant we like!
One of the easiest house plants to care for is the Cast Iron plant. While this species prefers strong light, it may thrive in shady areas and rooms with little natural light. The only way to hurt this man is to over-water him or re-pot him too frequently.
Can Dracena live in low light?
Dracaena is a genus of roughly 120 tropical plants, the majority of which are well-known for their ease of cultivation. Because of their low light tolerance and minimal water requirements, they are popular houseplants. Dracaenas are also available in a variety of shapes, hues, and sizes. Dracaena ‘Janet Craig’ (Dracaena deremensis ‘Janet Craig’), lucky bamboo (Dracaena braunii), maize plant (Dracaena fragrans), and the song of India (Dracaena reflexa) are all popular Dracaena home plants.
Can indoor plants grow without sunlight?
If you’re scared to cultivate indoor plants because your home doesn’t get enough sunlight, don’t let that deter you. Although most plants require light to flourish, shade-loving plants can get by with indirect light or even artificial light from conventional light bulbs.
The plants listed below all survive in low light and are surprisingly easy to grow.