Renters who stay longer than they expect – and move more often than they’d like – tend to look for things that stay put, that require little, that keep breathing in dark corners and dust behind drawn blinds. That’s because, among other things, they might have just one small window in the bedroom or a living room that faces another building. Luckily for them, many plants don’t need direct sunlight to grow well. They just need consistency, a little water, and the right spot.
This article will walk you through indoor plant picks that do well in low-light conditions. These fascinating plants are low-maintenance and adaptable, and that makes them ideal for people renting homes or apartments.
Dracaena
Dracaena plants are strong and slow-growing. They work well in rentals because they can easily handle indirect light or partial shade. You’ll want to place them in a hallway, a corner, near a window with blinds – you just have to avoid total darkness. Their leaves are long and narrow. Some are green. Others are striped or red-tipped. Most grow from a single tall cane or multiple canes. That kind of structure gives them a clean, somewhat minimalistic look.
As houseplants, Dracaenas will usually stay under 8 feet tall. You won’t need to report often. Also, they don’t spread out much. They’re vertical growers, which will save you some floor space. Be cautious, as they do contain saponins, which are harmful to cats and dogs if eaten. So if you’ve got pets, make sure the plant is out of their reach or choose another option.
Zamioculcas (ZZ Plants)
ZZ plants are great for renters who want a strong, no-fuss option. These plants handle low light well. They also don’t need frequent watering – every two weeks is usually enough.
Their leaves are thick and glossy. They might look a little artificial from a distance (get used to your guests suspiciously touching their leaves), but they’re as real as yourself and surprisingly durable. The roots store water, so even if you forget to water once or twice, the plant will survive.
If you’re moving to a smaller place – downsizing for reasons practical or temporary – this plant won’t make any trouble. It will adjust. One pot, one corner, one simple reminder to water now and then. Also, you won’t need to prune it often. Just wipe the leaves occasionally to remove dust. That helps the plant absorb light better and stay healthy.
Philodendron
Philodendrons come in different shapes and sizes. Some trail down shelves, others grow upright. They’re easy to care for and adjust well to dimmed light. Their leaves can be heart-shaped or deeply split. Most philodendrons are green. However, some types have a reddish or dark hue. These plants will grow steadily without getting messy.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, but make sure not to overwater. If the plant looks droopy, it usually means it’s thirsty. Once watered, it will perk back up. You can keep a philodendron on a windowsill or hang it from the ceiling. It doesn’t need a bright window to grow. Just make sure it gets some indirect light during the day.
Polka Dot Plants
Polka dot plants come in smaller shapes, and they’re very colorful. Their leaves have pink, white, or red spots, which gives them a bright, decorative look, perfect for low-light areas. And what’s interesting is that they actually grow best with medium to low light. Too much direct sunlight fades their color (and their well-kept status as decorative plants). Low light helps maintain the contrast in their leaves.
They stay compact, so you can place one on a desk or bathroom shelf. Additionally, they won’t take up much room in your rental, and they don’t grow fast. Water them regularly, just don’t let the soil stay wet. Yes, these plants like moisture, but they won’t tolerate soggy roots. If the leaves start to look faded, think about transferring the plant to a brighter spot.
Ponytail Palm
Now, ponytail palms are not true palms. They’re part of the succulent family. This means they store water in their thick base and can go a long, long time without watering. They grow slowly and stay small indoors. Most don’t get taller than 3 or 4 feet in a pot. That makes them ideal for renters who don’t have much space.
Their long, curly leaves grow from the top in a fountain-like shape. The base is thick and round. That unique structure makes it a good focal point in a room. They prefer bright, indirect light but tolerate low light. Just don’t keep them in total shade. A spot near a window with a sheer curtain will work well and make your apartment feel like home.
Money Tree
Money trees are known for their braided trunks and wide green leaves. One of the perfect indoor plant picks, they grow slowly and stay compact in pots. They don’t spread out much, so they fit nicely in corners or beside furniture. They prefer bright, filtered light but can survive in low-light spaces. A spot near a north-facing window works fine. Just rotate the pot every couple of weeks to keep the plant growing evenly.
Water them every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on humidity. Let the soil dry out between waterings. Overwatering will cause root rot. These plants are low-maintenance, and they don’t drop leaves often. They also don’t need much trimming. They’re a steady, reliable choice for renters who want greenery without all the extra effort.
Conclusion
A low-light rental doesn’t have to feel empty or lifeless by default. A few well-chosen plants can bring color and calm to any space. You don’t need perfect lighting or a green thumb, just the right type of plants. The indoor plant picks covered in this article grow well in shaded rooms. They stay manageable in size. Frequent care is not something they require. Most importantly, they adapt to changes in space and routine. Whether you choose a ZZ plant, a Dracaena, or a Polka dot plant, you’ll be adding something steady to your space, something that transforms your rental into a home. A little something that keeps growing even when everything else feels temporary.
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