Many of us enjoy having a plant or two on our work desk, or filling our indoor spaces with lots of greenery.
But do you wonder if the plants get enough natural sunlight? Perhaps you have a windowsill or a balcony garden that just isn’t getting a lot of direct sunlight.
What plants could you consider in such situations?
Affendi Isa, a plant lover who has a thriving balcony garden, notes that all plants need natural light, but there are some that can thrive in lower light conditions.
“Among them are the Sansevieria trifasciata (snake plant), Zamioculcas zamiifolia (ZZ plant), Epipremnum aureum (pothos or devil’s ivy), Chlorophytum comosum (spider plant), Crassula ovata (jade plant), Haworthia and ferns. As a result, they are suitable for indoor spaces like living rooms or the office, ” he says.
These plants are popular houseplants for a reason – while most of them are happy to spend time in bright sun, they won’t kick up a fuss if they live most of their lives in the shade or indoors, or have access to mostly indirect light.
Zek Jas, another plant enthusiast with a soft spot for ferns and trailing specimens, notes that philodendron species like the brasil, cream splash or heartleaf might be good choices for beginners.
“They are easy to care for and can tolerate low-light conditions. You can also grow them as hanging plants if you wish, ” he says.
Here are three other plants that can thrive in low-light surroundings:
Another popular houseplant that isn’t too demanding with its light requirements is the monstera, which is famous for its unique perforated leaves. They like shade, warmth and moisture and in their natural habitats, are climbers. As the plant gets bigger, provide a support structure for it to climb, such as support sticks, poles or a trellis.
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The dracaena is a low-maintenance plant that can be kept in the shade or under filtered or indirect light. In fact, you should be careful if you place them in direct sunlight as the sun can scorch their leaves. Its name comes from the ancient Greek word for “female dragon”, due to the red resin in the stems of dracaena that is said to resemble dragon’s blood.
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Also known as the nerve plant or mosaic plant, the fittonia is a striking houseplant with vibrant red, white or pink veins running through its leaves. They thrive in high humidity and bright, but indirect, light. Remember to water them regularly as they are not drought-tolerant and will easily wilt without adequate water.
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