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Home » Ornamental Garden

45 Plants That Grow Without Sunlight (Shade Loving Plants)

Last Modified: Apr 25, 2022 by Mary Ward · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

With more and more people looking to brighten up their indoor and outdoor spaces, it can be challenging to find the right plants for your space.

Example of plants that grow without sunlight and tolerate shade.

While we often think of plants bathing in the bright glow of a windowpane, many plants are able to survive, and some even thrive in areas where there is very little or no light.

Living in a place with low lighting is no reason to live without plants, which is why we’ve compiled this list of 45 plants that will grow just fine without sunlight.

Jump to:
  • 1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
  • 2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas)
  • 3. Peacock Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
  • 4. Wax Begonia (Begonia x semperflorens-cultorem)
  • 5. Nerve Plant (Fittonia spp.)
  • 6. Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)
  • 7. Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica)
  • 8. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
  • 9. Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)
  • 10. Rattlesnake Plant (Goeppertia insignis)
  • 11. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
  • 12. Japanese Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta)
  • 13. Bromeliad (Bromeliaceae)
  • 14. Alocasia Silver Dragon (Alocasia baginda)
  • 15. Orchid (Orchidaceae)
  • 16. Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
  • 17. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
  • 18. Silver Satin (Scindapsus pictus)
  • 19. Panda Plant (Kalanchoe tomentosa)
  • 20. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
  • 21. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
  • 22. Laceleaf (Anthurium spp.)
  • 23. Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)
  • 24. Sword Fern (Polystichum munitum)
  • 25. The Paper plant (Fatsia Japonica)
  • 26. Dwarf Umbrella Tree (Schefflera arboricola)
  • 27. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
  • 28. Arrowhead Plant (Syngonium podophyllum)
  • 29. Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa)
  • 30. Staghorn Fern (Platycerium)
  • 31. Creeping Fig (Ficus pumila)
  • 32. Zebra Cactus (Haworthia attenuata)
  • 33. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
  • 34. Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)
  • 35. Wax Plant (Hoya)
  • 36. Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)
  • 37. Elephant Ear (Colocasia esculenta)
  • 38. Dragon Tree (Dracaena)
  • 39. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera)
  • 40. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
  • 41. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
  • 42. Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)
  • 43. Fuschia (Fuschia)
  • 44. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
  • 45. Painted Leaf Begonia (Begonia rex)
  • Final Thoughts

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

Potted snake plants with yellow bordered green leaves
The Snake Plant might be the most famous easy-care, low light plant there is.
Hardiness Zone:9-11 (USDA)
Water:Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering
Sun:Partial to complete shade

The snake plant, also known as the mother-in-law’s tongue, belongs to the agave family comes in several varieties, all of which snake outward and end at a sharp point.

These plants are unbelievably tolerant of neglect and can grow in nearly any condition. They tolerate virtually no sunlight, although they may grow more slowly or not without access to natural light.

If you’re looking for an easy beginner plant that can handle little to no sunlight, the snake plant might be for you!

2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas)

ZZ plant in a white pot set on the floor
There is almost no location in your home where a ZZ plant can't survive.
Hardiness Zone:9-10 (USDA)
Water:Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering
Sun:Partial to complete shade

If you’re looking for a plant that can withstand even the darkest corners of your house or the harsh fluorescent lighting of your basement, then the ZZ plant is for you.

ZZ plant, short for its botanical name Zamioculcas zamiifolia, has tall stems with deep green, shiny leaves. This beauty is a low-maintenance plant that loves deep, dark, shady areas and requires very little watering.

3. Peacock Plant (Maranta leuconeura)

Closeup of Peacock Plant planted in the ground in dappled light
You might know the Peacock Plant by another name--Prayer Plant.
Hardiness Zone:10-11 (USDA)
Water:Water when the top few inches of soil are dry, mist leaves regulary
Sun:Partial to complete shade

Calathea, also commonly referred to as a peacock plant, is a real showstopper and a popular choice among houseplant lovers.

The peacock plant is also commonly called the prayer plant because it tends to curl inward and point upwards toward the sky in the evenings.

Be warned that the peacock plant is a slightly higher maintenance plant than most plants on the list and may benefit from being regularly misted and watered with distilled water.

4. Wax Begonia (Begonia x semperflorens-cultorem)

Pink-blossomed wax begonia
Wax Begonias are one the few vibrant flowering plants that will tolerate low light conditions.
Hardiness Zone:10-11 (USDA)
Water:Water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out completely between watering
Sun:Can tolerate most sun levels, does well with partial shade

Wax begonias are beautiful plants that have the ability to flower nearly all year long in the right conditions.

They are petite plants with small, pink flowers that are sure to add some cheer to your living or outdoor space.

While wax begonias thrive in bright, indirect light areas, they will do fine in lower light areas, especially when it’s particularly warm outside.

5. Nerve Plant (Fittonia spp.)

white-veined green nerve plant in a rock garden
Proper moisture control is the key to success with the Nerve Plant.
Hardiness Zone:11 (USDA)
Water:Water when the soil just starts to dry out, the soil should be kept moist, not wet, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out completely between watering
Sun:Shade to indirect sunlight

If you’re looking to add a delicate and understated plant to your collection, the nerve plant is an excellent choice.

Its small green leaves have beautiful veins that look almost drawn on and come in several colors.

Your nerve plant will require regular attention, as the soil should be kept moist, and multiple instances of leave wilting may result in permanent damage.

6. Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)

Peperomia plant showing wide white lines on green leaves
Direct sunlight will actually harm Peperomia plants.
Hardiness Zone:10-12 (USDA)
Water:Allow the soil to dry out between watering
Sun:Thrives in medium or bright indirect light

Peperomia is a large family of plants that includes several popular houseplants. While its ideal growing conditions offer access to medium or bright indirect light to keep the plant healthy and the foliage colorful, peperomia is relatively tolerant of low-light conditions and is susceptible to damage if exposed to direct sunlight.

7. Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica)

Potted Rubber Tree plant on a counter
With just a little sunlight, the popular Rubber Tree can thrive inside.
Hardiness Zone:10-11 (USDA)
Water:Water when the top few inches of soil begin to feel dry
Sun:Indirect light, moderate sunlight

The rubber tree has soared to one of the top houseplants used today and thrives when grown indoors.

Although it will grow well outside in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11, most people choose to keep it inside, and with adequate natural light, it’s a relatively quick grower.

Don’t be surprised if the lower levels of leaves begin to fall off if your rubber tree never sees sunlight, but it does well in partial shade, so even if it’s not getting direct sunlight, your rubber tree should continue to grow and stay healthy.

8. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

Potted Chinese Evergreen plants
Chinese Evergreens are highly adaptable plants that will do well even in low light situations.
Hardiness Zone:10-12 (USDA)
Water:Water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out completely between watering
Sun:Once adapted to low light, the plant will do fine and continue to grow at a slower rate

Chinese Evergreens are great plants because they can adapt to various growing conditions and do just fine in low light conditions.

While the growth may be considerably slower, Chinese evergreens are already slow-growing plants, so you likely won’t notice a huge difference in their growth pattern.

Pick a nice shady spot for your Chinese evergreen, and it will continue to deliver consistent, beautiful foliage for years to come!

9. Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)

Leafy green maidenhair ferns
Low light forest floors are the natural habitat for Maidenhair Ferns.
Hardiness Zone:10-11 (USDA)
Water:Keep the soil moist but not wet, water when you notice it begins to dry out
Sun:Partial to complete shade

Gorgeous when grown inside or outside, maidenhair ferns are delicate and beautiful plants that are rewarding to grow.

Like most ferns, the maidenhair fern tends to grow on the forest floor, underneath trees and larger plants, so it is well equipped to handle low-light situations.

If you’re looking to landscape darker areas of your yard, the maidenhair fern makes a great choice because it can thrive without direct sunlight and grow in various places, such as between rocks.

10. Rattlesnake Plant (Goeppertia insignis)

Leaves of the rattlesnake plant look almost hand painted
Rattlesnake plants have specific humidity requirements, but putting the time in is well worth the reward with this beautiful plant.
Hardiness Zone:11-12 (USDA)
Water:Keep the soil moist in warmer months but allow the top few inches of the soil to dry out between watering in the winter
Sun:Partial to complete shade

The rattlesnake plant is another type of calathea that is slightly fussy and completely beautiful.

Because of its tropical origins, this plant requires much more humidity than many plant owners have patience for.

However, if properly cared for, rattlesnake plants make extremely desirable houseplants because of their tall, striking foliage with distinct green markings on the top of the leaves and a purple-red hue making up their undersides.

11. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Golden pathos plant planted in a rope basket pot
Golden pathos is a plant anyone can grow--no green thumb required!
Hardiness Zone:9-10 (USDA)
Water:Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering, particularly when kept in low light conditions
Sun:Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight but is tolerant of most light conditions

Another favorite among houseplant lovers, the golden pothos is beloved for its bright and cheery foliage and virtual indestructibility.

Your golden pothos will likely survive in any conditions and will tell you when it needs to be watered through its slightly wilted leaves.

Tolerant of neglect, these common houseplants are also very tolerant of low light conditions; just expect slower growth!

12. Japanese Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta)

Bushy, feather-leafed Japanese Sago Palm planted outdoors
The feathery Japanese Sago Palm can be grown indoors or out (though it will need to come indoors in winter in the north).
Hardiness Zone:8-10 (USDA)
Water:Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering in the winter and the top few inches of the soil to dry between watering in warmer months
Sun:Grows best in partial shade

The Japanese Sago Palm is a beautiful addition to any indoor plant collection or outdoor garden and, despite its name, is not actually considered a palm.

This feathery plant has beautiful green foliage and can tolerate much shadier conditions than true palms.

Just be careful not to overwater as the sago palm is susceptible to root rot.

13. Bromeliad (Bromeliaceae)

Pink-topped bromeliad plants in an outdoor garden bed
The name Bromeliad covers a wide range of low-light varieties.
Hardiness Zone:9-11 (USDA)
Water:Thrives in bright, indirect but is tolerant of lower light conditions
Sun:Depends on the variety

Those fortunate enough to have seen a bromeliad bloom understand just why these gorgeous plants are so desirable.

There are many different varieties of bromeliads, and they have different care requirements. However, many bromeliad types can do very well in low light conditions.

In order to bloom, most bromeliads need at least partial, indirect light, but your bromeliad may be perfectly healthy even if it never flowers!

14. Alocasia Silver Dragon (Alocasia baginda)

Silvery leaves of Alocasia Silver Dragon plant
The Alocasia Silver Dragon needs sunlight, but too much is direct light is problematic.
Hardiness Zone:9-11 (USDA)
Water:Water as soon as the top of the soil is dry to the touch
Sun:Thrives in bright, filtered sunlight but is sensitive to too much light

Although the gorgeous alocasia silver dragon requires some sunlight to survive, it made this list because of its sensitivity to too much light.

These plants simply cannot handle bright light and can grow and thrive so long as there is even a small amount of indirect, filtered light.

Just remember to rotate your alocasia regularly, as uneven plant growth can ruin the aesthetic!

15. Orchid (Orchidaceae)

A purple-blossomed orchid plant
Orchids are much easier to grow than you might think.
Hardiness Zone:Hardy orchids: 6-9 (USDA), Half-hardy orchids: 11 (USDA)
Water:Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering
Sun:Thrives in bright, indirect light

While you may be surprised to hear that orchids made this list of plants that can survive without sunlight, orchids are very durable plants.

Orchids require a hefty amount of sunlight to thrive and bloom, but their growth pattern without sunlight emulates orchids that have entered dormancy.

The plant will continue to grow and show dark, hearty leaves, but no flowers will bloom. When you eventually move it somewhere more sunny, your orchid will happily bloom once again!

16. Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)

Potted money tree plant with braided trunks
People don't always realize how large money trees can actually get.
Hardiness Zone:10-11 (USDA)
Water:Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering
Sun:Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions

Known for their ornamental braided trunks when grown as houseplants, money trees are low-maintenance and make great additions to your houseplant collection or outdoor garden.

These cheery plants tend to grow up to six feet when grown indoors but can reach heights upwards of 60 feet when planted outside!

Like the alocasia silver dragon, optimum growth requires you to regularly turn your money tree to ensure the plant is even on all sides.

17. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

Potted Parlor Palms on a table
Parlor Palms are an easy way to make a big plant statement.
Hardiness Zone:10-12 (USDA)
Water:Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering
Sun:Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions

The parlor palm is a very popular indoor plant, and its delicate and beautiful foliage almost resembles a very large fern.

While it thrives in areas where it receives a generous dose of sunlight, the parlor palm can survive and tolerate areas where it receives significantly less light.

18. Silver Satin (Scindapsus pictus)

dusty-looking silver pothos plant
The Silver Satin Pothos is another pothos option that is easy to care for.
Hardiness Zone:9-11 (USDA)
Water:Water plant once the top few inches of the soil feel dry
Sun:Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions

Like the golden pothos, the silver satin pothos thrives in areas where it’s receiving bright, indirect light and can grow abundantly.

Defined by their gorgeous green leaves with dotted silver-green variegation, these pothoses may simply grow less quickly without as much access to sunlight.

19. Panda Plant (Kalanchoe tomentosa)

Brown-tipped chocolate soldier succulent plant
This succulent doesn't need a lot of light or a lot of watering.
Hardiness Zone:9-11 (USDA)
Water:Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering
Sun:Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions

The panda plant, also called chocolate soldier or pussy’s ears because of its fuzzy stems and dappled brown tips, is a precious succulent that grows well with very little light!

Like most succulents, the panda plant does best when you let the soil dry out completely, as they’re prone to root rot.

20. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

A lush Boston fern growing in a hanging basket
The Boston Fern is a little easier to care for than the more picky Maidenhair fern.
Hardiness Zone:9-11 (USDA)
Water:Keep the soil moist but not wet, water when you notice it begins to dry out
Sun:Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions

Boston ferns make great plants because of their versatility. While they do great as a part of your landscaped yard, they also thrive indoors or outside in hanging containers.

Like the maidenhair fern, it’s essential to keep the soil moist for your Boston fern to stay happy and healthy, but it is more tolerant of drought than its more delicate relative.

21. English Ivy (Hedera helix)

English Ivy growing on a brick wall
Because it naturally grows on shaded tree trunks, English Ivy is a good candidate for low-light growing.
Hardiness Zone:4-13 (USDA)
Water:Water when the top few inches of soil are dry
Sun:Thrives in partial to complete shade

While you may think of English ivy as a trailing vine growing up the sides of trees or buildings, it also makes an excellent houseplant.

Easy to grow and very hardy, English ivy is sure to add some appeal to your home or garden and can grow even in the shadiest of conditions.

22. Laceleaf (Anthurium spp.)

A bright pink flower on a laceleaf plant
Laceleaf is tolerant of low light conditions, though blooming may be enhanced by brighter indirect light.
Hardiness Zone:10-13 (USDA)
Water:Keep the soil moist but not wet, water when you notice it begins to dry out susceptible to root rot
Sun:Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions

Laceleaf is a family of plants that are known for their dark, glossy leaves and striking flowers, called spathes. The spathes come in various colors, with a conical spadix jutting out of it.

Be aware that your laceleaf may take longer to grow and flower less regularly when grown with less sunlight.

23. Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)

Large variegated leaves on a dumb cane plant
Dumb cane can handle quite a range of lighting conditions.
Hardiness Zone:10-12 (USDA)
Water:Water when the top few inches of the soil are dry
Sun:Can handle bright, indirect light or partial shade

Dumb cane is a low-maintenance houseplant that is appealing because of its ability to grow in various lighting conditions.

While tolerant of low lighting, dumb cane still offers aesthetic appeal with its trademark dappled, variegated leaves.

24. Sword Fern (Polystichum munitum)

Large sword-shaped sword fern plant
Shady moisture is the natural habitat for sword ferns.
Hardiness Zone:5-9 (USDA)
Water:Keep the soil moist not wet, water when you notice it begins to dry out
Sun:Thrives in partial to complete shade

A classic beauty and a plant that you are likely to see when looking at the forest floor, the sword fern is a hardy plant that can handle practically no sunlight.

When grown outdoors, they thrive in shady, moist areas, and so long as their soil is kept moist enough and they aren’t exposed to harsh sunlight, they make attractive houseplants.

25. The Paper plant (Fatsia Japonica)

Large green leaves on a paper plant
Paper plants prefer shade, so they will grow fast and thrive even in low light.
Hardiness Zone:7-9 (USDA)
Water:Water thoroughly, draining excess water to avoid root rot
Sun:Thrives in partial to complete shade

Paper plants make excellent shade plants because, unlike many other plants, they actually thrive without bright sunlight.

While many of the plants on this list will grow in shaded areas, this growth may be significantly reduced compared to if they were given sunlight.

On the other hand, the paper plant will reward you with fast, beautiful growth, even in complete shade.

26. Dwarf Umbrella Tree (Schefflera arboricola)

Yellow-mottled leaves on a dwarf umbrella plant
Your dwarf umbrella will appreciate being turned regularly.
Hardiness Zone:10-11 (USDA)
Water:Water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out completely between watering
Sun:Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions

The dwarf umbrella tree is an attractive, low-maintenance houseplant that resembles the money tree physically.

It offers plant owners fast growth and bushy foliage, although it’s best to turn it regularly.

While the dwarf umbrella tree tolerates lower light, the stems may get spindly without enough indirect light.

27. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)

Lucky bamboo plant potted and grown without soil
Water is the key to successfully growing a lucky bamboo plant. As for light, it's more tolerant of variation.
Hardiness Zone:10-12 (USDA)
Water:Grow in water or soil that you water regularly to keep it moist
Sun:Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions

Lucky bamboo is a beautiful and very low-maintenance plant, said to bring luck to the plant owner.

Assuming the roots have enough space to grow, the lucky bamboo can grow simply in water, so long as there are not too many chemical additives (such as fluoride).

28. Arrowhead Plant (Syngonium podophyllum)

Potted arrowhead plant on a wooden base
There are several color varieties of arrowhead plants.
Hardiness Zone:10-12 (USDA)
Water:Water plant once the top few inches of soil feel dry
Sun:Depends on the variety, but most are tolerant of partial shade, while only some can handle bright sunlight

The arrowhead plant is named so because of the arrowhead shape of the leaves. It is a small, bushy plant that can add charm to both indoor and outdoor gardening.

The arrowhead plant comes in several varieties, offering distinct colors.

29. Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa)

Swiss cheese plant growing outside in dappled light
Believe it or not, a good soaking in your shower is one of the best ways to keep your Swiss cheese plant happy.
Hardiness Zone:10-12 (USDA)
Water:Water thoroughly, draining excess water to avoid root rot
Sun:Thrives in medium to bright indirect light but can handle low light conditions

The swiss cheese plant, also commonly called a split-leaf philodendron or simply a monstera, is one of the top coveted houseplants.

Relatively easy to care for and tolerant of lower lighting, you can keep your indoor swiss cheese plant particularly happy by placing it in the shower for thorough waterings that emulate the tropical weather in the rainforests to which it is native.

30. Staghorn Fern (Platycerium)

Staghorn fern growing out of the crotch of a tree
A popular way to grow this fern is actually hanging from a wall plaque!
Hardiness Zone:9-12 (USDA)
Water:Water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out almost completely between watering
Sun:Partial to complete shade, will require significantly more water and humidity to tolerate brighter, indirect light

Staghorn ferns are popular both indoors and outdoors because of their uniquely beautiful epiphytic nature.

The staghorn fern is often seen mounted on wall plaques because it emulates their natural habit of growing on trees.

31. Creeping Fig (Ficus pumila)

Creeping fig plant climbing a brick wall
Creeping fig will travel far when grown outdoors.
Hardiness Zone:9-11 (USDA)
Water:Water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry completely between watering
Sun:Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions

Creeping figs are known for their tiny, delicate foliage that can be a dark, rich green color or even variegated.

Outdoors this plant is a steady grower and can be seen creeping up the sides of buildings.

If you choose to keep your creeping fig indoors, prepare for its growth to be less impressive and only live a few years, although it is sure to be beautiful while it lasts!

32. Zebra Cactus (Haworthia attenuata)

Striped zebra cactus plants in pots
The zebra cactus, a succulent, is treasured for its striking looks.
Hardiness Zone:9-11 (USDA)
Water:Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering, be careful to avoid overwatering
Sun:Thrive in medium to bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions

The zebra cactus is one of the cutest and most visually stunning plants on the list. This succulent is defined by its dark green stems with white ridges, resembling the stripes of a zebra.

While it thrives with some sunlight, the zebra plant is somewhat tolerant of shade, but if you notice its green stems begin to fade, consider moving it somewhere with slightly more sun.

33. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

spotted leaves of the cast iron plant
Like cast iron, it's hard to destroy a cast iron plant.
Hardiness Zone:8-10 (USDA)
Water:Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering
Sun:Can handle partial, indirect sunlight, partial shade to complete shade

The cast iron plant is for you if you possess the opposite of a green thumb. These plants are virtually indestructible, are incredibly tolerant of neglect, and require almost no sunlight to survive.

Whether you plant them inside or outdoors, feel free to choose any area that doesn’t receive too much sunlight, and your cast iron plant will continue to reward you with its rich, green foliage.

34. Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)

A potted weeping fig tree with a braided trunk growing indoors
The attractive weeping fig tree is higher maintenance, but tolerant of low light.
Hardiness Zone:9-11 (USDA)
Water:Water when the soil just starts to dry out, the soil should be kept moist, not wet
Sun:Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate lower light conditions

The weeping fig is a stunning, petite tree with delicate weeping leaves. While beautiful, the weeping fig is one of the more high-maintenance plants on the list.

Consistency is key when caring for a weeping fig, and they can tolerate uniform, lower levels of sunlight.

35. Wax Plant (Hoya)

Star-shaped blossoms on a wax plant
Wax plants have a unique, rigid structure.
Hardiness Zone:9-11 (USDA)
Water:Water consistently when the soil begins to dry out so that the soil is kept moist, not wet
Sun:Depends on the variety, but thypically thrive in bright, indirect light, although they are tolerant of more shaded areas

Wax plants make great houseplants because of their woody stocks and beautiful, turgid leaves. They come in many varieties and are relatively easy to care for.

Depending on what type of wax plant you own, they may have different light requirements, but many hoya varieties can handle partial shade.

36. Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)

A bird's nest fern growing in the middle of a shady green lawn
Bird's nest ferns are definitely a tropical plant, so they can only be grown outdoors in the warmest of climates.
Hardiness Zone:11-12 (USDA)
Water:Keep the soil moist but not wet, water when you notice it begins to dry out
Sun:Thrives in partial shade

Bird’s nest ferns are lovely and unique, and while their care is similar to some of the other ferns on this list, they are distinctly tropical.

Their bright green leaves are broad and wavy, and in their natural habitat, they grow on trees, like the staghorn fern.

Find a nice, shaded area for your bird’s nest ferns to thrive.

37. Elephant Ear (Colocasia esculenta)

Elephant's ear plants planted along a walkway border
It's not hard to tell where this plant gets its name!
Hardiness Zone:8-11 (USDA)
Water:Water thoroughly and never allow the soil to dry out, soil should fell moist to the touch at all times
Sun:Thrives in partial shade but is tolerant of most light conditions

The elephant ear, also called taro, is a fun plant that will add appeal whether planted indoors or outside.

They have broad, striking leaves that grow quite large, and these plants thrive in lower light conditions.

Elephant ears thrive in moist soil, making it an excellent choice for those who tend to overwater their plants!

38. Dragon Tree (Dracaena)

A young potted dragon tree on a plant stand
Did you know that Dragon Trees can grow as tall as six feet high?
Hardiness Zone:10-12 (USDA)
Water:Water thoroughly and allow the soil to dry out until the top several inches are dry to the touch
Sun:Thrives in bright, indirect light but is tolerant of lower light conditions

Dragon trees make spectacular houseplants because they’re low-maintenance and typically grow with sharp, brightly-colored foliage to nearly six feet tall.

Dragon trees grow slowly but don’t require much sunlight and are relatively drought tolerant.

39. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera)

A pink-blossomed Christmas cactus in full bloom
Christmas cactuses require very little care. In fact, you almost want to neglect them until you want them to bloom.
Hardiness Zone:10-11 (USDA)
Water:Water plant once the top few inches of soil feel dry
Sun:Thrives in partially shaded areas

The Christmas cactus is so named because it is the Schlumbergera variety that blooms closest to the Christmas holiday!

If you’ve seen Easter cactuses and Thanksgiving cactuses, these plants are in the same family but bloom closest to the holidays they’re named after.

40. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

potted peace lily houseplant
Peace lilies are another popular houseplant that is prized for its ease of care.
Hardiness Zone:10-11 (USDA)
Water:Keep the soil moist but not wet, water when you notice it begins to dry out
Sun:Thrives in partially shaded areas but can handle complete shade

Peace lilies are common when grown indoors and outdoors. They’re known for their dark, deep leaves and beautiful white flowers. Best of all? They’re very low-maintenance!

Be cautious when growing peace lilies if you own pets, as they’re toxic to both cats and dogs.

41. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

A healthy green and white striped potted spider plant
Spider plants are a classic houseplant, popular for their easy growing.
Hardiness Zone:9-11 (USDA)
Water:Water thoroughly and allow the top few inches of soil to dry out in between watering
Sun:Thrives in partial shade but is tolerant of complete shade

Spider plants are whimsical and easy to care for, often seen growing in hanging baskets. The plants grow smaller “baby” plants that hang from the parent plant and can be easily propagated and shared with friends!

42. Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)

Coin-shaped leaves on potted Chinese money plants
Pretty and petite, the Chinese money plant can live well in low light.
Hardiness Zone:9-11 (USDA)
Water:Water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out almost completely between watering
Sun:Thrives in bright, indirect light but is tolerant of lower light conditions

The Chinese money plant is an adorable, petite plant known for its light stalks and coin-shaped leaves.

When it has access to sunlight, regularly rotate the plant so it doesn’t look unbalanced. The Chinese money plant can survive with very little sunlight, but it may develop fewer, smaller leaves.

43. Fuschia (Fuschia)

Pretty purple and pink blooms on a fuschia plant
Few plants can bloom as bright in low light as fuschia plants can.
Hardiness Zone:10-11 (USDA)
Water:Water when the soil just start to dry out, the soil should be kept moist, not wet
Sun:Thrives in partial shade but can tolerate lower light conditions

Fuschias are often seen in hanging planters outside of people’s homes and in commercial landscaping.

Their gorgeous, bright-colored flowers are deeply alluring, and unlike many other plants, sunlight is not required for these beauties to bloom.

44. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)

Spiky leaves of the aloe plant
A soothing aloe plant is a great thing to have in your kitchen. And it doesn't need a lot of light!
Hardiness Zone:10-12 (USDA)
Water:Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering, do not water during the dormant season
Sun:Thrives in bright, indirect light but is tolerant of lower light conditions

Did you know that aloe vera can be applied to your skin directly from the plant? If you have an aloe plant growing, it can offer you many benefits and save you a trip to the grocery store after a day in the sun!

45. Painted Leaf Begonia (Begonia rex)

Painted leaf begonia planted in a garden
Painted leaf begonias offer interest and will tolerate low light conditions.
Hardiness Zone:10-12 (USDA)
Water:Water when the soil just start out to dry out, the soil should be kept moist, not wet
Sun:Thrive in bright, indirect light but is tolerant of lower light conditions

While many begonia varieties require more sunlight, the painted leaf begonia makes a fantastic, low-maintenance option because this plant is far more tolerant of low light conditions.

Painted leaf begonias are aptly named for their gorgeous, colorful mottled leaves.

Final Thoughts

If your home or apartment doesn’t get a lot of natural light, but you’re a plant lover, don’t fret! There are plenty of plants that can survive or even thrive in lower light areas.

While many houseplants prefer bright light, every plant on this list can do just fine in areas without access to direct sunlight.

Consider picking up one of these 45 plants today to brighten up and add some greenery to your space.

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