5 Indoor Plants that Grow Without Sunlight
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If you’re hesitant to grow indoor plants because your home lacks bright sunlight, don’t let the shady conditions stop you. Most plants need some light in order to grow, but shade-loving plants can easily get by with indirect light, or even artificial light from regular light bulbs.
The following five plants all thrive with minimal light, and they’re surprisingly easy to grow.
1. Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese evergreen is a durable plant that tolerates a fair amount of neglect. Mature plants produce lovely, white blooms that resemble calla lilies. Chinese evergreen thrives in very low light or under a regular bulb, and too much light will scorch the leaves. Choose a variety with darker leaves, as variegated types with cream or silver markings require a bit more light.
2. Cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior)
This slow-growing plant is super hardy and doesn’t appreciate a lot of fuss; overwatering can kill the plant, and repotting too often can also have a negative effect. Cast iron plant tolerates very low light, but like most shade-loving plants, it won’t grow in complete darkness.
3. ZZ plant (Zamioculcas)
ZZ plant boasts shiny, waxy leaves but don’t be deceived; this pretty plant is tough as nails and nearly impossible to kill, tolerating very low light or a minimal amount of artificial light. It also withstands a dry environment and thrives with sporadic watering.
4. Monstera (Monstera deliciosa)
Also known as swiss cheese plant, monstera shows off with big, bold, heart-shaped leaves that develop interesting holes or splits as the plant matures. Any level of light suits this plant, but so be sure to provide a trellis or moss-covered stick because it likes to climb.
5. Lucky bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Said to bring good luck to its owner, lucky bamboo grows happily in a vase or jar filled with water, or potted up in standard potting mix. Low light works well for this nearly indestructible plant. However, lucky bamboo is sensitive to chlorine and other chemicals found in most tap water. To get around this problem, use bottled or distilled water or just leave water out for 24 hours and the chemicals will evaporate.
