Believe it or not, there are plants that grow without the sun.
Even though most plants need light to grow, fortunately, there are plants that grow in indirect sun – so when choosing your indoor garden be sure you have one of these!
Some plants crave the sun, but others can thrive in shade. They are a great way to add some greenery and color into your home without having any worries about maintenance or bugs!
21 Houseplants That Grow Without Sunlight
1. Dracaena
With Dracaena, you can have a beautiful indoor plant that is both durable and easy to care for. There are about 50 species in this genus–and most of them thrive as houseplants!
2. Bromeliads
The Bromeliad plant is perfect for those who want something tropical indoors. Most varieties of this flower thrive easily in containers and need good amounts of shade, but it can sometimes do well with luminescent light too!
3. Maidenhair Fern
If you’re looking for an elegant and sophisticated-looking plant, maidenhair fern may be the one. The dark leaves with glossy stalks make it seem like your house has been touched by royalty!
4. Mother-in-law’s Tongue (Snake Plant)
Mother-in-law’s tongue is a low maintenance plant that loves to be in the dark. It can withstand indoor conditions and doesn’t need much care, making it popular among people who like simple living spaces!
5. Philodendron
The heartleaf philodendron is a popular plant for those that love low-light conditions. It’s easy to grow and has the same requirements as pothos, just with more leaves!
6. Calathea
One of the most beautiful plants you can grow in your home. It prefers light shade, but it needs a minimum temperature at least 55 F (13 C) which should be maintained constantly if possible.
7. Prayer Plant
Prayer plants are typically grown in warmer climates and require a bit more care than other types of plant. However, it is not so hard to grow them if you have medium light without direct sun exposure, a moderate light works great for them!
8. Boston Fern
Boston Fern has beautiful green fronds, which are perfect for a houseplant. Like other plants it can get sunburned if placed in direct sunlight but is more sensitive to indirect light than you might think!
9. Devil’s Ivy (Golden Pothos)
Some people know it as the money plant, but in South East Asia they call it “elephant’s ears.” It can grow easily without direct sunlight and is typically grown indoors as an ornamental houseplant.
10. Chinese Evergreen
Chinese Evergreen plants are one of the best houseplants to grow, especially for people who live in apartments or low light areas. These types can survive with less sunlight than other varieties!
11. Cast Iron Plant
When it comes to plants, the cast iron plant is one that will not let you down. This forgiving nature makes this great for those who are always on-the run and forgetful about their greenery needs! Just give it a quick wipe with a damp cloth once or twice per week, and your plant will happily thrive.
12. Orchids
One of the best ways to grow orchids is by making sure they never come into contact with direct sunlight. With an incredible variety available, you’re bound for success!
13. Lucky Bamboo
According to Feng Shui, it attracts positive vibes and good fortune. It’s one of the best office desk plants because due to its compact nature, it can be grown in water without worrying about light exposure!
14. ZZ Plant
The ZZ plant is a low-maintenance houseplant that requires no sunlight or watering. It thrives in shady areas with indirect light, but it won’t grow well if you keep the windows closed all day long! The only requirements are warmer surroundings for this tropical succulent plant to survive.
15. Peperomia
These plants are perfect for your desktops because they have a variety of colors and grow well without sunlight. Whether you’re looking at the Baby Rubber Plant or Watermelon Peperomia – all types can be grown easily in moderate conditions. These plants need indirect sunlight to thrive.
16. Dumb Cane
A welcoming addition to your home. It can be kept away from pets and children because its sap is moderately toxic, containing calcium oxalate crystals. The pretty leaves make it a perfect houseplant for low-light areas!
17. Spider Plant
Visualize the stunning variegated leaves of a spider plant dangle down with unique spiderettes in hanging baskets. Isn’t it enough to tempt you? It also likes indirect light and is one if the best air-purifying plants!
18. Peace Lily
Peace lilies are a great choice for those looking to enjoy health benefits and low care. They flourish in shady locations, but this plant isn’t too difficult to grow!
19. Aloe Vera
The most popular and number one houseplant in many countries, according to Google Trends. This ultra-medicinal herb can grow in direct sunlight, but it also tolerates low light conditions too!
20. Rubber Plant
The plant has a bold statement with its glossy and rubbery leaves. The size is perfect for any space, from the living room to your master bedroom! It can even handle some shade, so it’s perfect for growing it anywhere you want!
21. Hoya
Hoya will look perfect in any room! Make sure to provide enough height for its hanging leaves. Water the plant thoroughly when it’s time and keep away from direct sun exposure, which could cause scorching or wilting of this beautiful ephemeral bloomer.
