Believe it or not, some plants actually thrive in low-light spots! We’re breaking down the seven most popular plants for windowless rooms, plus we’ve got a little “insider tip” for you at the end.
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++ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
This houseplant is practically bulletproof. The ZZ plant handles low light like a pro and can survive in just about any environment. While it grows a bit slower and develops darker green leaves in dim corners compared to bright spots, it remains incredibly reliable. Even dry air from the heater or the occasional forgotten watering won’t faze this tough guy. Its fleshy stems store water, so it can handle dry spells without breaking a sweat.
++Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica)
The Rubber Tree has been a living room staple for decades, and it hasn’t lost its charm. One reason it’s so popular is its adaptability—it even does well with very little light. If you’re putting one in a completely windowless room, I’d still recommend giving it a few hours under a grow light each day. These guys love warmth and hate drafts. Keep the watering moderate and only reach for the watering can when the top inch of soil feels dry.
++Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are happy just about anywhere and are surprisingly tolerant of low light. Their arching green or variegated leaves look a lot like ornamental grass. Because of their trailing habit, they look fantastic in hanging baskets. The long stems and “babies” (plantlets) dangle down, creating a really cool effect. Since their roots store water, they don’t mind if you’re a few days late with the watering, though they prefer staying consistently moist.
++English Ivy (Hedera helix)
Shady spots that only get a few hours of light are where English Ivy really shines. This climber features beautifully shaped foliage and helps keep your indoor air fresh. If you give it a trellis to wrap around, it’ll happily climb your walls. It also looks stunning in a hanging pot where the vines can just drape down naturally.
++Golden Pothos (Epipremnum pinnatum)
Easy to care for, a breeze to propagate, and a vigorous grower even in dim light—Pothos is the ultimate houseplant for low-light spaces. These vines can grow up to 30 feet long, meaning you can trail them along your walls or let them spill off a bookshelf. While many varieties have beautiful variegation or patterns, keep in mind that they might turn solid green if the room is very dark.
++Philodendron (Philodendrons)
Originally from the rainforests of South America and the Caribbean, where they climb up massive jungle trees, Philodendrons have earned a permanent spot in our homes. They feel right at home in indirect light and are famous for filtering toxins out of the air. Plus, they’re super hardy and will totally forgive you for minor care mistakes.
++Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
With its striking upright growth, the Snake Plant is a fan favorite. Depending on the variety, the leaves can be wide or narrow with cool patterns in different shades of green. Just a heads-up: the darker the spot, the darker the leaves will become. Since Snake Plants actually produce oxygen at night (unlike most plants), they are the perfect choice for improving the air quality in your bedroom.
%%Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia)
This evergreen beauty loves a warm spot. Varieties with darker leaves handle low light quite well, as long as they’re protected from drafts and big temperature swings. The Baby Rubber Plant is robust, low-maintenance, and constantly puts out fresh, leathery leaves with a lovely shine. From spring through winter, it might even surprise you with small, spike-like flowers that eventually turn into tiny berries.