A Low-Light Apartment Shelf

A room with a north-facing window or a shelf several feet from the glass can still be green. These four plants tolerate low light better than any others and need very little water in such conditions.

Location
Indoors
Light
Low to medium
Season
Year-round foliage
Water
Low
Upkeep
Very low

Plants in this plan

  • Illustration of Snake Plant
    Snake Plant Dracaena trifasciata

    Upright accent. Use a tall variety at one end of the shelf.

  • Illustration of ZZ Plant
    ZZ Plant Zamioculcas zamiifolia

    Glossy filler. Its arching stems contrast with the snake plant's vertical leaves.

  • Illustration of Golden Pothos
    Golden Pothos Epipremnum aureum

    Trailer. Let the vines hang from the top shelf.

  • Illustration of Peace Lily
    Peace Lily Spathiphyllum wallisii

    Flowering plant. Place it in the brightest position you have.

Planting and care tips

  • Water far less than you would in a bright room. In low light the soil can take three to four weeks to dry.
  • Wipe dust from the leaves every month so they can use the light that is available.
  • Move the plants to a brighter spot for a few weeks every couple of months if growth stalls.
  • Do not fertilize more than twice a year in low light.
  • All four plants are toxic to pets if chewed. For a home with cats or dogs, see the pet-safe plan instead.