Do you have a room that doesn’t get much sunshine? Or perhaps a tight spot without much space? It’s easy to think those “impossible” home conditions are poor spots for plants. But I’m here to share a secret: some of these plants will grow in spots where it isn’t so bright, or the square footage is tiny! Look at these easy-to-maintain plants that will grow and bring life to even the trickiest of spaces.
For Those Low-Light Spots
The ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) –
If “low light” is your challenge, the ZZ Plant is a great choice! This one features waxy, glossy leaves that arch from the base. It’s low-maintenance and looks good without much effort.
- The Secret to Its Strength: Think of the ZZ Plant as having an internal water tank. It survives with rhizomes – those are like little potato-shaped growths just under the soil surface that hold water. This means it’s not a constant thirsty plant!
- Watering Wisely: ZZ is prone to overwatering. It truly does best when given time to dry between waterings. If you’re ever in doubt, wait another few days. Less is more!
Styling Tip: A single ZZ in a decorative pot on a bookshelf or a dimly lit table makes a lively display.
The Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) –
True to its name, if you’re needing something green that is tough and shade tolerant, the Cast Iron Plant is a perfect candidate. It’s a classic for a reason, used in homes for generations, and asks little in return. Its green, tall, and shaped leaves add an extra touch of life to indoor spaces.
- Built to Last: This plant isn’t just tolerant of low light; it practically prefers it! It also handles temperature fluctuations and the occasional forgotten watering.
- Care Simplicity: An occasional wipe of its broad leaves with a damp cloth will keep them dust-free and looking their best!
- Complement its Form: The Cast Iron Plant has such an upright yet slight arching form. It looks great in a decorative pot or a ceramic pot that gives it more visual presence. It does well in a corner. It’s also lovely in a shaded entryway where guests can admire its steadfast beauty, it can get large.
Vertical Solutions for Tight Spaces: Making Every Inch Count!
When floor space is your limit, vertical growers are your best friends for adding life.
The Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) –
The Snake Plant is a superstar for small spaces. Its striking, sword-like leaves have an upright growth, which is ideal if you have limited space.
- Low Maintenance: Beyond its space-saving shape, it’s also low maintenance. This plant likes to dry out completely between waterings.
- Fresh Feature: Not only does it look good, but it also has some air purification qualities to quietly freshen your home.
- Styling Tips: A tall, slender Snake Plant in a small pot can fit into a tight footprint. Just use your imagination and look around. For a dynamic display, it will also pair well with other houseplants – consider grouping different snake plant varieties (they come in different patterns and shapes!) in a long, narrow planter, or mix it with trailing plants on a shelf where its height can be easily seen.
Little Plants for Bright Spots
Now, let’s talk about succulents! While many plants adore basking in sunshine, there’s a whole world of small succulents. Perfect for well-lit window sills, sunny desk corners, or any spot where space is at a premium but you get good, bright light.
- The Dilemma: “I have a sunny spot, but it’s tiny and lifeless! I need something compact and interesting to make it feel more alive.”
- The Solution: Succulents are nature’s jewels! Think of echeverias with their rosette shapes, compact haworthias with intriguing stripes, or trailing string of pearls. Their smaller size and generally slower growth make them ideal for these spaces.
- Light & Water: Most succulents do need a good amount of bright, indirect light to direct sun to maintain their compact shape and vibrant colors – they aren’t typically for low-light spots like the ZZ or Cast Iron. Their fleshy leaves store water, so like the Snake Plant and ZZ, they do not like soggy soil. Let the medium dry out all the way!
- Styling Tip: Create a miniature garden in a shallow bowl with a variety of textures and colors. Individual tiny pots on a sunny kitchen windowsill can bring so much cheer. They’re also fabulous in those trendy geometric terrariums (just ensure good airflow!).
Light and space limitations don’t mean you have to go plant-less! With these resilient performers, you can easily change any lifeless, dull corner of your home.
Happy planting, maybe your “problem spot” can soon be your favorite green space!