The Best Low-Light Indoor Plants That Thrive Even in Dark Rooms

We fellow plant killers tend to agree, which is why we opt for low-light indoor plants. Low light doesn't always translate to low maintenance because, let's face it, there are a lot of other factors that go into plant survival, but sunlight is a biggie. So if you want to stock your space with houseplants but don't know where to start, let us help.

The best low-light plants can thrive on little to no direct sunlight and can even survive in the dark long term (like throughout the entire winter). Snake plants and ZZ plants are known for being two of the best houseplants for low light. If you want to make even more of statement, parlor palms and Madagascar dragon trees are great for large plant lovers whose spaces aren't exactly greenhouses when it comes to letting in the sun. Combining low light and low maintenance is the best course of action for new plant parents or those who are greenery adverse. We recommend starting with an especially easy one, like a spider plant or pothos, to get the hang of it and expanding your collection from there.

Still unsure which low-light houseplant is right for you and your home? Below, we're highlighting 27 of the best low-light indoor plants along with their care needs, pros, and cons, to assist in your decision making. Happy potting!

Large Snake Black Coral

Water: Every two to three weeks, allowing soil to dry out between waterings

Associate Editor Jessica Cherner got herself The Sill's snake plant back in July 2020, and it's still thriving—even in its original upcycled planter. "I got a plant because I wanted to add a little bit of color and life to my apartment, but I didn't want to spend more than a few minutes here and there taking care of it," she says. "I literally water it every six to eight weeks, and that's more than enough." If you have pets, you may want to keep them away from your snake plant because, although it's not fatally poisonous, your cats and dogs can get sick if they ingest even a few bites.

Rabbit Foot Fern

Water: Once a week

With fronds that resemble the shape of a rabbit's foot (a well-known good-luck charm), the Rabbit Foot Fern thrives in indirect light with plenty of humidity. If you have a window in your bathroom, that's the ideal spot for this fast-growing plant. But be sure to keep it off the windowsill since direct sun will scald its leaves.

Live Prayer Plant Plant

Water: Every two weeks

Available in a variety of sizes, the prayer plant is named for its leaves that open and close as the sun rises and sets. While the changing leaves may seem finicky, this resilient plant is surprisingly easy to care for. Plus, it acts as a natural air purifier! Water when the top quarter of the soil is dry.

Parlor Palm

Water: Every one to two weeks

This plant, also known as the Victorian parlor palm, is famously resilient. Plus, who wouldn't love those pretty feathery leaves that liven up any bland corner of your home? It does well in medium light but can survive in lower light areas as well. Though this palm likes humidity and extra moisture, you can water it sparingly. At least every two weeks is more than enough. It's also nontoxic for your cats and dogs.

The Sill Aglaonema Wishes

Water: Once every seven to 10 days

Since this is one of the most durable indoor plants on offer (it does quite well in low light) and only needs to be fertilized once or twice a year, it's ideal for beginner gardeners. In fact, these plants don't even need natural light to grow; they'll survive just as well in artificial light. They also do best in dry air, so this is one plant you may not want to display in your bathroom. Sadly, the aglaonema is toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, so keep it away from your beloved pets.