Low-light indoor plants (such as the snake plant, ZZ plant, pothos, parlor palm, and corn plant) still require some level of light to survive. The term “low light” is a specific designation, typically measured as 25-200 foot candles (FC). In practical terms, this means there should be enough light for a person to read a paper book; otherwise, there isn’t sufficient light for any plant to thrive.
While some plants can survive in complete darkness for a few months, they will eventually need exposure to light to remain healthy. Without adequate light, these plants will begin to deteriorate and eventually die. One strategy to maintain plants in darker areas is to rotate them regularly with plants kept in brighter spots. For example, you could keep a plant in the dark for two months, then move it to a lighted area, and switch it with a plant that has been in the light for four months. This rotation helps both plants receive the necessary light exposure to stay healthy.
When we refer to “light,” it doesn’t necessarily mean direct sunlight. A bright window facing south, west, or even east can often provide sufficient light, depending on the plant species.
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Minimum Light Requirement:
- Low-light plants need some light to perform photosynthesis. This is usually measured at 25-200 foot candles (FC). A practical way to gauge this is if there is enough light for a person to read a book comfortably, then it’s enough for the plant.
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Survival in Complete Darkness:
- While some low-light plants can survive in complete darkness for a short period, typically a couple of months, they will eventually need light to remain healthy. Without light, they will start to weaken and die.
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Rotation Strategy:
- To keep plants in darker areas, you can rotate them with plants that are in well-lit areas. For instance, keep a plant in the dark for two months and then move it to a brighter spot. Swap it with a plant that has been in the light for a few months, ensuring both get the necessary light exposure over time.
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Light Sources:
- The “light” required for these plants doesn’t have to be direct sunlight. Bright windows facing south, west, or even east can provide sufficient light, depending on the plant species. Indirect light can be enough for many low-light plants.
Conclusion
Low-light indoor plants need some degree of light to grow and stay healthy. While they can tolerate and survive in lower light conditions than other plants, they cannot grow in complete darkness indefinitely. Regularly rotating plants between darker and lighter areas can help maintain their health.
Popular Low-Light Indoor Plants
Here is a list of popular low-light indoor plants that are known for their ability to thrive in less-than-optimal lighting conditions:
- Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
- This vining plant is known for its heart-shaped leaves and can thrive in low light and with irregular watering.
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
- Also known as Mother-in-law’s Tongue, this hardy plant can tolerate low light and infrequent watering.
- Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
- A popular indoor palm that can grow well in low light conditions, adding a tropical feel to your space.
- Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
- A popular trailing plant with heart-shaped leaves that can grow well in low light conditions.
- Corn Plant (Dracaena fragrans)
- Known for its attractive, arching leaves and tolerance of low light, this plant is a great addition to any indoor setting.
- Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
- Features arching, green and white striped leaves and is very adaptable to different lighting conditions.
- Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
- Known for its elegant white flowers, the Peace Lily can thrive in low light and helps purify the air.
- Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
- This plant has beautiful variegated leaves and can tolerate low light and infrequent watering.
- Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
- True to its name, this plant is very tough and can withstand low light, drought, and neglect.
- ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
- Known for its shiny, dark green leaves, the ZZ plant is very low-maintenance and can survive in low light.
- Devil’s Ivy (Scindapsus aureus)
- Similar to pothos, this vining plant has variegated leaves and can thrive in low light.
- Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
- Often grown in water, Lucky Bamboo can tolerate low light and adds a touch of elegance to any room.
Care Guide Popular Low-Light Indoor Plants
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Light: Thrives in a variety of lighting conditions, from low light to bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it’s best to avoid placing it in direct sun.
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Water: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Pothos can tolerate occasional drought, but overwatering can lead to root rot. Ensure the pot has good drainage.
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Soil: Prefers well-draining potting soil. A standard houseplant mix works well.
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Humidity: Tolerates a range of humidity levels, making it suitable for most indoor environments. It can thrive in typical household humidity but also adapts well to higher humidity.
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Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C). It can tolerate cooler temperatures but should be protected from drafts and cold air.
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Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.
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Pruning: Prune regularly to maintain the desired shape and encourage bushier growth. You can also trim back leggy stems to keep the plant looking full.
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Propagation: Easily propagated through stem cuttings. Place the cuttings in water or directly in soil, and they will develop roots within a few weeks.
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Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to pests, but occasionally may attract mealybugs, spider mites, or scale. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if infestations occur.
Benefits:
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Air Purification: Pothos is known for its air-purifying qualities, helping to remove toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene from the air.
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Aesthetic Appeal: Its trailing vines and attractive leaves make it a versatile plant for hanging baskets, shelves, or as a table centerpiece.
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Easy Care: Ideal for beginners due to its low maintenance requirements and ability to thrive in various conditions.
Varieties:
- Golden Pothos: Features green leaves with golden-yellow variegation.
- Marble Queen Pothos: Known for its creamy white and green marbled leaves.
- Neon Pothos: Recognized by its bright, lime-green leaves.
- Jade Pothos: Has solid, dark green leaves with no variegation.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a fantastic addition to any indoor plant collection, offering beauty and ease of care that even novice gardeners can manage successfully.
Low-light indoor plants need some degree of light to grow and stay healthy. While they can tolerate and survive in lower light conditions than other plants, they cannot grow in complete darkness indefinitely. Regularly rotating plants between darker and lighter areas can help maintain their health.
