Grayson West
Not all of us live in sun-drenched greenhouses, and that’s okay! If your home or office is more “cozy cave” than a “sunny retreat,” but you still want greenery in your space, here are 10 plants that thrive in the shadows.
Snake Plant
A true warrior of the plant world! The snake plant shrugs off neglect, happily growing in dim corners with little water. Its tall, sword-like leaves filter toxins from the air while standing bold and elegant. Even if you forget it exists for weeks, it’ll still thrive.
ZZ Plant
Low light? No problem. Dry soil? It doesn’t matter. The ZZ plant is practically unkillable. Its glossy, waxy leaves add an elegant touch while requiring next to no attention. It’s like that effortlessly stunning friend we all have. Just water occasionally, and it’s golden.
Pothos
Its vines spill beautifully from shelves and baskets, bringing a pop of green to even the gloomiest spots. It’s super easy to propagate, so one plant can become many. And if there were an award for “most likely to thrive in neglect,” pothos would win.
Chinese Evergreen
With patterned leaves that range from silver to deep green, the Chinese evergreen adds a gorgeous touch to any space. It prefers low light and forgives occasional forgetful watering—a plant with patience! This one’s got you covered if you’re on the hunt for a plant that thrives with minimal effort.
Peace Lily
This beauty doesn’t just survive in low light—it flourishes. The peace lily’s dark green leaves and occasional white blooms make it a showstopper. But its real superpower is cleaning toxins from the air. With just a little water and love, it’ll return the favor with fresher air.
Philodendron
Low light doesn’t faze a philodendron—it keeps growing by adding effortless life to your space. Its heart-shaped leaves spill beautifully from shelves or hanging baskets, creating a lush, cascading effect. And the best part? It’s not needy—give it a cozy corner and a sip of water now and then.
Dracaena
Native to tropical Africa, Dracaena brings height and drama to your space with its long, striking leaves. It thrives in low-light areas effortlessly and adds a bold touch to any room. It’s the plant that makes a statement without demanding constant attention.
Spider Plant
Few plants work as hard as the spider plant. Originally from South Africa, it grows in almost any condition, produces adorable baby plants, and actively improves air quality. Those arched green-and-white striped leaves add a lively, playful touch.
English Ivy
Want a touch of timeless elegance? English ivy thrives in low light, trailing effortlessly over bookshelves, mantels, or window sills. It’s also a natural air purifier, so not only does it look sophisticated, but it also helps you breathe easier.
Cast Iron Plant
True to its name, the cast iron plant is tough. It can handle low light and general neglect. With deep green leaves and a sturdy nature, it’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it plant for busy plant parents who still want a touch of nature indoors.