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7 plants to grow in apartments with little natural light

Discover 7 species that adapt to indoor projects with low light and see which care tips help keep them beautiful and healthy

By Yeska Coelho

Submitted at Oct 2, 2026, 6:00 PM

08 min de leitura
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7 plants to grow in apartments with little natural light

(Divulgação/Divulgação)

Not every apartment receives abundant sunlight during the day, but that doesn't mean giving up on greenery in the decor. With the right species, it is possible to create beautiful indoor landscaping even in less illuminated projects.

It is worth remembering, however, that little light does not mean a total absence of brightness. Even the most tolerant plants need brightness to perform photosynthesis. Therefore, the tip is to observe the conditions of each room before choosing the species.

1. ZZ Plant


Zenzi

Zamioculca. (Divulgação/Divulgação)

The ZZ plant is one of the best-known species for indoor projects and adapts well to places with indirect light. It also tolerates periods of lower brightness, although its growth may become slower.

The species stores water in underground structures, so it does not need frequent watering. The main care is to avoid excess water and ensure that the pot has good drainage so that the substrate does not become waterlogged.

2. Snake Plant


snake-plant

(Drew Beamer/Unsplash/Divulgação)

Resistant and versatile, the snake plant can be cultivated under different lighting conditions. It tolerates projects with indirect light and also less illuminated places.

Its vertical leaves take up little space, which makes the species a good choice for compact apartments, hallways and corners near furniture. Watering should be moderate, especially in projects with little brightness.

3. Pothos


Boa constrictor.

Jiboia. (Div Manickam/Unsplash/Divulgação)

With trailing growth and striking leaves, the pothos is one of the most versatile options for decorating apartments. It can appear in pots on shelves, bookcases or hanging, creating movement in the composition.

The species adapts to indirect light and tolerates lower brightness. However, when it stays in a very dark place, it may lose part of the color variation of its leaves. Therefore, it is worth choosing a space with natural brightness, but without intense direct sun.

4. Prayer Plant


Prayer-Plant

Maranta-Riscada. (Flor de Camomyla/Divulgação)

The prayer plant draws attention for its patterned leaves and different shades of green. It prefers projects with indirect light, a condition that can be found in many indoor spaces.

Since it also appreciates humidity, it is important to find a balance between watering and ventilation. Excess water can harm the roots, while a very dry environment can affect the appearance of the leaves. Observing the plant is the best way to adjust care.

5. Peace Lily


Peace lily

(Pixabay/Divulgação)

The peace lily combines green leaves and white flowers, creating a highlight inside the home. The species prefers indirect light and can adapt to indoor projects with lower brightness.

Although it likes humidity, the peace lily should not remain in waterlogged soil. Before watering, check the substrate and make sure the pot has enough holes to allow water drainage.

6. Pacová


Pacová

Pacová (Freepik/Divulgação)

With large, shiny, tropical-looking leaves, the pacová can transform a corner of the apartment into a small green refuge. The species prefers indirect light and should be protected from strong sunlight.

With its voluminous foliage, it works especially well as a focal point in decoration. To keep the plant healthy, choose a spot with good brightness and air circulation, avoiding abrupt changes in projects.

7. Peperomia


Trailing peperomia

Peperômia escandente (BePage/Divulgação)

Compact and easy to fit into different spaces, the peperomia is an alternative for those who want to start a small plant collection indoors. It can be grown in pots on tables, sideboards, shelves and bookcases.

The species prefers indirect light and tolerates less-lit projects, as long as there is still enough brightness. Since its roots do not like excess water, the ideal is to let the substrate partially dry between waterings and opt for a pot with good drainage.

How to choose plants for an apartment with little light?


Before bringing a new species home, observe how much natural light the projects receive throughout the day. A living room with a nearby window, for example, offers different conditions from a hallway without direct light entry.

It is also worth considering ventilation, humidity and available space. After all, choosing a plant adapted to the real conditions of the apartment makes care easier and increases the chances of it developing well. Thus, even with little light, it is possible to bring more green, texture and life to interiors.

This text was developed with the assistance of CASACOR Publisher, an exclusive content agent developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. The generated content was subsequently edited by Yeska Coelho.