Living in Canada means that for a good part of the year, we deal with fewer daylight hours, especially in winter. For tropical plant lovers, this presents a unique challenge: how do we keep our green friends happy with less light? The good news is, several indoor plants thrive in low light and can bring a lush, tropical feel to any room, no matter the season.
Whether you’re looking to add to your collection or are a beginner hoping to green up your space, here are the best low-light plants for your home.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Known for its sword-like leaves and ability to withstand just about any condition, the snake plant is a favorite for low-light spaces. It’s nearly indestructible and only needs water once every couple of weeks, making it ideal for busy plant parents. Plus, it purifies the air!
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is another low-maintenance superstar. With glossy, green leaves and a tolerance for both low light and neglect, it’s perfect for darker corners. The ZZ plant also only needs occasional watering, so it’s great if you tend to forget your plants now and then.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is a vining plant with beautiful trailing leaves that come in various shades of green and yellow. It does well in low to medium light and grows quickly, adding instant impact to your indoor space. You can hang it, train it up a trellis, or let it trail from a high shelf.
4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The peace lily is known for its lush, dark green leaves and elegant white blooms. It’s a great plant for areas with indirect, low light, like hallways or bedrooms, and it has air-purifying qualities, too. Just be cautious not to overwater—it prefers to dry out between drinks.
5. Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
Philodendrons are another hardy plant that can handle low-light conditions. Their heart-shaped leaves and easy-going nature make them a popular choice for both plant novices and enthusiasts. Place it on a shelf or let it climb up a trellis to add a little jungle vibe.
6. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
True to its name, the cast iron plant can withstand quite a bit of neglect. It tolerates low light, dry air, and even occasional missed waterings, making it ideal for low-light, low-care situations. Its broad, dark leaves add a bold look to any room.
7. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese evergreens are known for their attractive foliage with splashes of green, silver, or even red. These plants thrive in low-light areas and are very forgiving, making them an excellent choice for homes with limited natural light.
8. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are easy to care for and do well in both low and bright indirect light. They produce long, arching leaves and small “pups” that you can propagate into new plants. Spider plants are also known for their air-purifying qualities.
Tips for Keeping Your Low-Light Plants Happy
Even with low-light plants, there are a few ways to keep them at their best, especially during the long Canadian winter:
- Supplement with Grow Lights: If you notice your plants looking a bit leggy or pale, a grow light can help provide extra brightness. Look for energy-efficient LED grow lights designed for indoor use. We love these Barrina lights!
- Maintain Humidity: Tropical plants often need higher humidity to remain healthy. Consider adding a humidifier to your plant room or placing a pebble tray under your pots.
- Avoid Overwatering: Low-light plants tend to need less water since they don’t dry out as quickly. Check the top inch of soil before watering and make sure your pots have drainage holes. If you're not sure when to water your plant, use a soil moisture meter. It is very easy to use!
Why Choose Low-Light Plants?
Adding plants to your home does more than brighten up your space—they improve air quality, reduce stress, and can make even the coldest winter feel a bit warmer. And with low-light plants, you can enjoy these benefits without needing constant sunshine.
Canadian winters don’t have to stand in the way of creating a tropical indoor paradise. With these low-light plants, you can bring greenery into your home and enjoy the mental and physical benefits of indoor gardening, all year round. Ready to start your indoor garden? Check out our recommended links to get all the plants and supplies you need to make your Canadian home a tropical escape.