Do you want your space filled with plants but don’t think you get enough direct light in your house? Some plants actually prefer low light or partial shade, and will actually thrive in a shady space.
What is low light?
“Low light” is an area that gets no direct light, likely because it’s placed several feet away from the light source, or there is a building, tree, or other obstruction in front of the window. To determine if your space has low natural light, you can ask yourself- can I easily read a book without turning a light on?
- If no, then it is likely low light space.
- If yes, you may have medium or bright, indirect light
Signs that your plant isn’t getting enough light:
- If it starts getting leggy and reaching toward the light source
- If the leaves become transparent and drooping or fall off consistently
Here are 5 of our favorite lower light plants!
Parlor Palm
The Neanthe Bella Palm “Parlor Palm” is a classic houseplant that remains immensely popular to this day, and once you have one, you will understand why. The lush, bright green foliage offers a splash of the tropics to any space, and these relatively fast growers are also very easy to care for. In lower lighting conditions, its leaves will turn a darker green color.
Water: This plant likes moderate moisture with a period of drought in between waterings. Water when your potting mix has dried out one to two inches down, and be sure to water thoroughly until you see water come out of the bottom of its container.
Humidity: We recommend adding a humidifier to your plant care routine to help provide humidity if your space is dry.
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Fittonia “Nerve Plant”
Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but never wet or soggy. These plants can recover well from under-watering, however over-watering can be damaging to the roots. If you notice your plant is limp, give it a good soaking. You should notice the leaves perking back up after a couple of hours.
Humidity: We recommend adding a humidifier to your plant care routine to help provide humidity if your space is dry.
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Jewel Orchid
The Jewel Orchid is a type of terrestrial orchid with striking leaves adorned with shimmering veins. While other orchid species may focus on their flowers, Jewel Orchids are prized for their exquisite foliage, though they do produce delicate white blooms in the winter.
Water: Allow the soil or moss ball to dry out at least half-way in between watering.
Humidity: We recommend adding a humidifier to your plant care routine to help provide humidity if your space is dry.
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Peperomia Obtusifolia
Peperomia are a favorite here at Crimson for their ease of care and vast range in foliage. The Peperomia Obtusifolia, often referred to as the “Baby Rubber Plant”, is a hardy staple distinguished by its blunt, waxy leaves and upright stems. Native to forests in Florida, Mexico and the Caribbean, Peperomia are used to the dappled light of the understory, making them an ideal plant for the indoor garden.
Water: While the Peperomia like to be on the dryer side, their fragile roots do not tolerate drought conditions. Allow the soil to dry out at least halfway down in the pot between thorough waterings. Avoid wetting their leaves or stems.
Humidity: Moderate to low humidity is best.
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Pothos
Pothos are another great, simple to care for plant that can tolerate low light. The less variegated (different colored zones of leaves) the better for low light. When plants are highly variegated, for instance with white, the more light it needs or they may lose it’s variegation. A perfect choice for a first-time plant parent, or anyone who enjoys a classic low-maintenance houseplant.
Water: These plants appreciate watering when the soil has dried out halfway in their pot. In low and medium light spaces, it is best to allow the soil to dry almost all the way, but do not let the plant sit dry for extended periods.
Humidity: Moderate humidity is best for this variety. We suggest running a humidifier if you space is dry.
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