Stylish Shade-Tolerant Plants: 3 Low-Light Options for Your Home
Not everyone’s blessed with those perfect east-facing windows or a home drenched in sunlight. But that doesn’t mean you can’t create your own little jungle!
In today’s post, we’ll dive into what “low light” actually means, share some tips for maintaining plants in low-light conditions, and introduce you to a few plant picks that can thrive even in those shadowy nooks of your home. So whether you're after a sleek, minimalist vibe or a lush, bohemian feel, we've got you covered!
What Does “Low Light” Mean, Anyway?
First things first, low light isn’t the same as no light. Low light means indirect, filtered natural light—think a room where the sun never directly hits, but there’s still some brightness during the day. If you have spaces without any natural light at all, you’ll want to consider adding plant lights to give your plants a fighting chance.
Here are a few things to keep in mind before you start picking out plants:
• Map Your Light Sources: Take a tour of your space. Identify areas that get lower light and make a mental note of those potential plant spots. Remember, no light at all won’t cut it for most plants without a light boost.
• Consider Maintenance: Low light doesn’t always mean low maintenance. Different plants still have unique needs. Take stock of your space’s humidity, potential drafts, and—let’s be honest—your own lifestyle. If you’re more of a “set it and forget it” plant parent, aim for the hardy options. Or if you love fussing over your plants, pick a few that need extra TLC. After all, we’ve all lost a plant or two—let’s keep the plant cemetery to a minimum!
• Think Aesthetic: Imagine having friends over and showing off your space. What vibe are you going for? Minimalist? Boho chic? Believe it or not, there are low-light plants that fit every style. You can find greenery that enhances the whole feel of your home.
• Do Your Research: Once you know where your plants will go, what care level works best, and the look you’re after, it’s time to research! Look up low-light plant options to find your perfect match.
Ready to find your perfect green match? Keep reading for three low-light plants that’ll fit right into different decor styles. Whether you’re into a sleek, cozy, or rustic vibe, there’s something here for you!
Modern Minimalist
Clean, open spaces with a few standout pieces.
Plant Pick: Snake plant (Sansevieria)
This plant’s upright, bold leaves make a striking statement without needing much attention.
Quick Care Tips:
Water: Let the soil dry out completely before watering again—snake plants don’t like soggy roots. When in doubt, it’s better to hold off; overwatering is a no-go. And remember, drainage is important.
Thriving Tip: Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth occasionally to keep them dust-free.
Bohemian
Rich textures, earthy tones, and lots of layering.
Plant Pick: Spider plant ( Chlorophytum comosum)
Great for hanging planters or shelves, and it adds a little touch of wild to any space.
Quick Care Tips:
Water: Let the soil partially dry out between waterings. When the top inch feels dry, give it a good drink. Make sure it’s in a well-draining pot to avoid root rot.
Thriving Tip: Spider plants thrive with a bit of humidity. Mist them a few times a week with a fine spray, and watch them flourish! A happy spider plant will soon start producing little “baby spiders” of its own.
Farmhouse Chic
A cozy, lived-in style with vintage charm.
Plant Pick: Boston Fern (Nephrolepsis Exaltata)
This classic fern brings a lush, soft feel to any room.
Quick Care Tips:
Water: Keep the soil moist, but don’t let it sit in water. Water when the top inch of soil is dry—these plants love to drink!
Thriving Tip: Ferns love humidity, so mist a few times a week, especially in winter, to prevent brown tips and leaf drop.
Whether you're drawn to the sleek simplicity of a modern minimalist look, to the earthy, free-spirited vibes of a bohemian style, the cozy, rustic charm of farmhouse décor, there’s a low-light plant to suit every aesthetic. The snake plant, spider plant and boston fern each fit effortlessly into these styles, offering both beauty and ease of care.
Now that you have three awesome choices, which one will you choose to complement your space? Thank you for reading this week's blog—see you next week!
We’d love to see how these shade-loving plants brighten up your home! Share your photos and experiences with us – it’s always a joy to see how you bring nature into your living spaces.
Words By The ZEN Succulent
Inspiring everyone to embrace the world of plants, our collection features articles penned by The Sill's team of seasoned plant experts. Covering a range of plant care topics, because we truly believe Plants Bring Life, Joy and Inspirations™ .
