Peace lilies, pothos, snake plants and ZZ Plants top the list as they require very little light to survive.
In fact, their lush foliage and vibrancy might surprise you considering they receive no natural light.
Peace lilies are fantastic air purifiers, pothos are practically indestructible, and snake plants can thrive on neglect. These resilient houseplants don’t ask for much but will lift your spirits with their lush appearance.
Keep reading to discover more light-starved plants and tips for maintaining them so your windowless room feels alive with greenery.
Key Takeaway
Plants for windowless room, what to know?
Snake plants and pothos are very good options for windowless rooms as they thrive in low-light conditions. Spider plants can also do well without direct sunlight.
The Best Plants For Windowless Rooms
ZZ Plant
Dressing up in a windowless office can seem daunting. However, there are fantastic floral friends well-suited for low-light living. Leading the leafy lounge is the mighty ZZ plant.
With waxy oval foliage that thrives without sunshine, the ZZ plant is a wonderful choice.
Its full aesthetic will brighten even the most dismal of dens. What’s more, these dynamic dependables are as durable as they are decorative.
Requiring little more than an occasional drink, ZZ plants are beyond effortless to maintain.
Their minimal needs mean your mind can focus on more meaningful matters than daily watering. Simply bask in their verdant vibrancy. Studies show exposure to greenery reduces stress and elevates emotion.
Each time you enter your office, your ZZ plant’s zen zone effect goes to work. Meanwhile, our Agave amigos should seek shadier placements.
The handsome hard leaves of these latino lovelies may curl and discolor when overexposed to lighting. Spare them distress by keeping them away from direct fluorescent fixtures.
Like a sunny sombrero, too much light is not their style. Low lit environments are where these luminous landsmen truly luminesce. With nuanced needs, they are a splendid selection for settings with scarce sunshine.
So whether a windowsill workspace or subterranean workspace, rest assured plants are possible.
Deftly choose varieties that match your lighting conditions to simplify care. Nurture nature indoors and never miss a moment of its mood-mending magic.
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Succulents
Consider succulents. These special plants come from dry areas and can live without water for a long time. Their thick leaves and stems hold water, allowing some forgivness if you forget to water them.
While succulents don’t need much care, overwatering is bad for them. Be careful not to keep the soil too wet, as too much moisture can cause root rot.
Regular fluorescent lights are enough for succulents to survive inside, but they will be healthier with more natural sunlight if possible. Plants grow better when they can experience natural light cycles like day and night.
In offices without windows, good succulent options are jade, echeveria and haworthia. They come in different shapes, sizes and colors.
Just be sure to use a well-draining potting mix and water them only when the soil is dry. With proper care, succulents can brighten up indoor spaces for many years to come with little effort from you.
Give them a try – their unusual leaves and stems are sure to add fun decorations around your home or workplace.
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Sansevieria
If you want plants for rooms with little light, try snake plants. Also called mother-in-law’s tongue, these plants come from Africa.
Snake plants have tall green stalks with points that look like scales. Their leaves stand up straight and stay green even without much sunlight. These plants are very hardy and can survive with just a small amount of light each day.
Snake plants don’t like wet soil. Be careful not to overwater them, as too much water can cause their roots to rot. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Also make sure there is airflow around the plant so it doesn’t get soggy.
Even though they need little care, snake plants make nice decorations. Their leaves add striped patterns and height to low-light rooms like offices.
Follow a simple watering schedule of keeping the soil mostly dry, and your snake plants should stay healthy for a long time. With proper care, these durable plants can brighten up dim spaces indoors or outdoors. Give them a try!
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Pothos
If dull indoor spaces drag your mood down, cheer up with easy-care Pothos plants. This variety thrives with little light, spreading vibrant green vines wherever it grows.
Pothos asks minimal care once settled. Just occasional room-temperature water keeps its branches branching beautifully.
Beginners need not worry – it perseveres bountifully despite bare minimum beams. Though medium lighting boosts magnificence, resilient Pothos remains lively in low light too.
Its delicate tendrils bring decor wherever they drape. Transplant Pothos to brighter spots as confidence grows, watching it flourish further.
Until then, its marble-like motion lends loveliness and lifts spirits in any dreary den.
With Pothos’s magical manes mimicking movement, dull domains delight. Its versatile nature nurtures anywhere life leads.
So plant Pothos and perceive inner peace, proving greenery greatly uplifts indoors regardless of outdoor views! For trailblazing transformations with tiny trouble, this vibrant variety proves valuable.
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Philodendron
When dreariness drags your mood down, find bright respite with indoor plants.
Consider the vigorous Philodendron for transforming tired spaces.
Wide heart-shaped leaves thrive with minimal radiance, enduring dim conditions without decline.
Offer ample area for this specimen to steadily spread vigor.
Though light limits, its leafy presence sparks pep.
Science shows proximity to houseplants boosts happiness – a boon as daylight fades.
Monitor for signs it solicits supplemental sun, like shrinking between disks.
This plant merits moderate rays to reach majesty.
Its bursting bounty lifts present perspectives and inspires future flourishing.
Periodically picture tropical territories to harness humdrum hassles.
Fill your formerly faint fortress with this flora’s fervor.
Feel fondness for its form, and let leafy locals lift longing for livelier landscapes when daylight dims.
With lush indoor plantings, dwell anywhere and transport yourself to paradise.
Creatures like these cultivate contentment in confined corners.
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Peacock Plant
Even windowless workplaces can feel bright. Consider the Calathea makoyana for vibrant indoor greenery.
Commonly called the peacock plant, its leaves uplift spirits with intricate patterns like colorful plumage. Variations include pale to deep greens and darker hues, attracting admirers like works of art.
This plant asks little despite dim conditions. Display it proudly to freshen any area. Diffused or fluorescent light best preserves its striking patterns, as direct beams may cause fading over time.
Studies show scenes of natural beauty lift moods, so feel freedom to showcase its loveliness for all to appreciate.
With regular care, the peacock plant promotes peacefulness indoors long-term. Remember all vegetation needs proper conditions to thrive.
Complimentary companions create indoor Havens wherever life’s path leads. The Calathea makoyana offers Paradise within any space.
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Peace Lily
Even though your office lacks windows, you can still enjoy the mood-boosting power of plants! With a little know-how, you can pick the perfect plants to green up your windowless workspace.
The Peace Lily – A Windowless Office Superstar
The peace lily is ideal for low-light offices. This petite plant with its white flowerlike bracts thrives under fluorescent lights.
And get this – it actually purifies indoor air! Studies show peace lilies absorb nasty volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
So you get a beautiful, clean-air boosting plant. Peace lilies grow up to 24-40 inches tall. But don’t put them in direct sun, as too much light causes the leaves to turn brown or black. The moderate light of most offices is perfect.
These hardy plants will enhance your space with lush greenery and pretty blooms.
More Low-Light Lovers
Beyond the peace lily, many plants can brighten a windowless office:
- Pothos – This trailing vine stays green even in low light. Easy to grow and fun to shape on a trellis.
- Chinese Evergreen – Gorgeous speckled leaves. Can reach 2-3 feet tall. Thrives with little light.
- Snake Plant – A succulent with tall, stiff leaves. Tolerates low light and infrequent watering.
- ZZ Plant – Glossy oval leaves on thick stems. Withstands neglect and adapts to any indoor light.
Let Nature Flourish Indoors
Even small office plants can make a big impact. They bring vibrancy, fresh oxygen, and natural beauty to sterile indoor spaces. Just be sure to pick low-maintenance, low-light varieties.
With the right plants, you can enjoy nature’s feel-good effects – no windows required! So don’t despair if your office lacks windows. A few potted plants go a long way towards making a space healthier and happier!
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Maidenhair Fern
The delicate maidenhair fern brings graceful beauty to offices, but needs special care to thrive indoors. This finicky fern has some unique requirements, but is worth the effort for its airy, cascading fronds.
Providing the Proper Growing Conditions
While most ferns prefer bright, indirect light, the maidenhair fern actually does best in low-light office settings. But it still needs the following to flourish:
- Distilled or filtered water – Tap water contains minerals that can damage its fragile roots. Use distilled or filtered water only.
- Consistent moisture – Allow the soil to partially dry out between waterings, but don’t let it get bone dry. Maintain even moisture.
- High humidity – Mist the fern daily or use a pebble tray to provide needed humidity. Dry air stunts its growth.
- Air circulation – Use a small fan to gently circulate air around the fern. Stagnant air encourages disease.
Caring for This Prized Fern
While somewhat high-maintenance, a healthy maidenhair fern is worth the extra effort. Here are some care tips:
- Remove yellowing fronds promptly to keep it looking tidy.
- Cut off any brown, shriveled fronds to the base to encourage new growth
- Prune back overgrown stems to shape the plant as needed.
- Check soil moisture daily and water when the top inch is dry.
- Wash leaves occasionally with room temperature water to prevent pests.
Bring the Outdoors In
The delicate maidenhair fern thrives with special care. By providing the right growing conditions, your office can enjoy this prized, evocative plant.
Just be sure to give it the extra attention it requires. Your patience will be rewarded with beautiful, cascading fronds that bring a breath of nature indoors.
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English Ivy
Beyond its ornamental appeal, English ivy offers many perks:
- It thrives in low light from fluorescent office fixtures. Direct sun isn’t necessary.
- As a climbing vine, it can be trained up a trellis or allowed to trail from shelves. This adds a lovely natural dimension.
- Its ability to remove air toxins makes it a great office air purifier. It contributes to better indoor air quality.
- Caring for English ivy is simple. It needs little maintenance beyond occasional pruning and watering.
Displaying English Ivy in the Office
English ivy lends old-world sophistication to any space. Consider these tips for spotlighting it:
- Place a trellis by a wall and train ivy vines up to create a living green backdrop.
- Let ivy cascade from wall shelves or bookcases for an artful effect.
- Set potted ivy on desks and file cabinets to add pops of greenery throughout the office.
- Arrange ivy in hangers and allow it to drape gracefully as a plant curtain in doorways or room dividers.
Simple Ivy Care
English ivy thrives with basic care:
- Water whenever the soil feels dry. Allow it to partially dry between waterings.
- Wipe leaves regularly with a damp cloth to prevent dust buildup.
- Prune back wayward vines to shape and direct growth as needed.
Bringing the outdoors in is easy with hardy, adaptable English ivy. Let it lend beauty and vitality to your office landscape!
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Dumb Cane
Want to add wow-factor greenery to a windowless office? The dumb cane plant is a perfect pick!
With its delightfully quirky name and impressively large leaves, this tropical plant is sure to be a fun conversation starter.
Dumb canes get their odd moniker from the fact their leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals that can temporarily numb the tongue and mouth if eaten (2). But don’t let that scare you off!
With proper placement, dumb canes can safely enhance any indoor space.
Why Dumb Canes Thrive in Low Light
Beyond having a cheeky name, dumb canes have many perks for offices lacking windows:
- Their wide, architectural leaves can grow over 2 feet long, adding bold textures.
- Colorful variegated varieties have mesmerizing streaks of white, yellow or cream.
- Dumb canes readily adapt to low light levels from fluorescent fixtures. No natural light needed!
- They require very little care – just regular watering and dusting.
Creative Ways to Showcase Dumb Canes
With their exotic, eye-catching foliage, dumb canes deserve prominence. Place them strategically around the office:
- Spotlight their oversized leaves in stands or plant shelves.
- Flank doorways or room dividers with these tropical beauties.
- Add smaller dumb canes to desks, cabinets and shelves for pops of greenery.
- Cluster a few together for an exuberant indoor jungle effect. Let vibrant dumb canes bring the tropics to your windowless workspace! Just be sure to keep them out of nibbling reach. Their namesake “dumb” effect makes them better admired than tasted!
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Cast Iron Plant
Want an ultra-resilient plant for your windowless office? Look no further than the cast iron plant. Known for its durability, this undemanding green can thrive in the low light of any indoor workspace. Just as its name implies, the cast iron plant is nearly indestructible. Once its broad, arching leaves unfurl, this stoic plant can withstand almost any office condition.
Why Cast Iron Plants Excel Indoors
Beyond being super sturdy, cast iron plants offer many benefits:
- They tolerate extremely low light, needing only fluorescent fixtures to grow. Direct sun not required!
- With dark green,corn-like leaves growing up to 2 feet long, they add imposing textures.
- Cast iron plants are slow but steady growers. Have patience for them to reach their full size.
- They require very little maintenance or watering once established.
Caring for Cast Iron Plants
While near impossible to kill, a few tips will keep cast iron plants looking their best:
- Dust leaves periodically with a soft cloth to allow light to reach them.
- Water sparingly, allowing the soil to partially dry out between waterings.
- Remove any yellow leaves promptly to maintain a lush appearance.
- Repot annually in spring to provide fresh soil. Bring rugged allure to your low-light office with the cast iron plant! Its rock-solid resilience and imposing foliage make it a distinctive, worry-free addition. They’re built cast-iron tough to thrive under any condition.
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Aglaonema
Just because your office lacks windows doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy beautiful plants! The aglaonema, also known as Chinese evergreen, is the perfect pick to add vibrant color to a low-light workspace.
With their oval-shaped leaves featuring eye-catching pink, red, and green hues, aglaonemas bring a lively, tropical feel wherever they’re displayed. And the best part? They thrive in offices without any natural sunlight!
Why Aglaonemas Flourish Indoors
In addition to their colorful foliage, aglaonemas offer many benefits for offices:
- They tolerate extremely low light levels, needing only fluorescent lighting to grow.
- Varieties range in height from 1-3 feet tall. There’s an aglaonema size for any space.
- These low-maintenance plants only require occasional watering and pruning.
- Aglaonemas help purify indoor air by removing toxins like benzene, xylene and formaldehyde.
Creative Ways to Showcase Aglaonemas
With their vibrant leaves, aglaonemas deserve prominent displaying in your office. Consider these ideas:
- Group a few in a corner to create a cheerful tropical vignette.
- Place petite varieties on desks and shelves to add pops of color throughout the office.
- Let larger aglaonemas take center stage on plant stands or in entryways.
- Line aglaonemas along a windowsill or shelf to create a bright border. Don’t let a lack of natural light stop you from enjoying beautiful plants!
Hardy, carefree aglaonemas are the perfect way to infuse radiant color and freshness into any windowless workspace.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the best flowers for a windowsless room?
Many common houseplants thrive with only indirect sunlight or artificial lighting.
Peace lilies, pothos, snake plants, ZZ plants, and English ivy all do well with low or no direct light.
Their green leaves or variegated foliage requires very little bright light to thrive.
Consider air plants that can survive without soil or artificial plants if live plants are not an option.
Proper care and humidity levels are still needed even without natural light requirements.
What type of artificial lighting do light plants need to survive?
While many low-light plants are perfectly content with very indirect sunlight, artificial lighting can substitute for natural light for plants in windowless rooms and home office spaces.
Full-spectrum grow lights, desk lamps, or overhead LED fixtures provide the different light wavelengths that house plants need.
Make sure plants receive at least several hours of consistent lighting each day for healthy green foliage.
Vining plants and pothos in particular benefit from overhead artificial lighting or lamps positioned above the plants.
Which are the most popular plants for offices or homes with low light?
ZZ plants (Zamioculcas zamiifolia), bamboo palms, snake plants, pothos, and spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are very popular choices for offices and other low-light environments.
Their waxy green leaves with potential yellow stripes require minimal bright light and withstand medium to low-light levels quite well.
Both spider plants and peace lilies are common flowering houseplants that add visual appeal with white blooms and greenery that thrive despite less than ideal light conditions.
How often should you fertilize low-light houseplants?
Most low-light houseplants such as pothos, snake plant and ZZ plant only need fertilized every few months during their active growing period.
Use a dilute water soluble houseplant fertilizer according to label instructions.
Fertilizing too often or with too much fertilizer can damage their aesthetic appeal and stress low-light adapted plants.
Allow soil to dry out moderately between waterings, especially during winter when growth is slowest.
Other Ways To Maintain Your Plants Healthy In Windowless Room
Here are some other ways to maintain your plants without the need for windows:
Best Growing Light For Small Amount Of Plants
Mini herb garden grow lights are excellent for only a few small houseplants. Tucked neatly in their boxes, both soil and plants stay organized.
Pros
- Compact lightweight design doesn’t take up much space
- Soil and plants remain consolidated together neatly
- Easy to move around as needed
Cons
- Larger collections of plants wouldn’t fit under its petite light
- Only recommended for containing a few small herbaceous plants
Best Growing Light For Vines
Adjustable gooseneck lamps are prime for trailing vines that require flexible lighting positioned where needed.
Pros
- Gooseneck arm reaches high shelves and swivels exact placement
- Vining houseplants grasp vibrantly towards the movable light source
- Doubles as a regular table lamp beyond plant growing sessions
Cons
- Not suitable for broader lower-level lighting of many plant types
- Higher initial cost than basic stationary lamps
By selecting the right growing lights tailored to specific plant varieties and interior nooks, houseplants retain their thriving beauty without natural sun access. Proper maintained lighting makes all the difference.
Conclusion
I hope this guide has shown that a lack of natural light won’t stop you from enjoying beautiful plants in your office!
With the right choices like aglaonemas, dumb canes, and cast iron plants, even windowless workspaces can flourish with vibrant greenery.
And don’t forget – plants boost mood, focus, and air quality wherever they’re displayed.
So go ahead – give your office landscape a refresh with these low-maintenance, low-light lovelies.
I promise your outlook will brighten right along with your space.
If you have any other questions on picking plants for sun-deprived offices, drop me a comment! I’m always happy to lend my green thumb expertise.
And be sure to check out the blog for more indoor gardening tips and inspiration.
Live your best plant life, without needing any windows!
References
- https://www.seedsandspades.com/best-plants-for-an-office-with-no-windows/
- https://www.makerstations.io/plants-for-windowless-home-office/
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- https://allthingsgardener.com/houseplants-for-windowless-rooms/
- https://allthingsgardener.com/plants-grow-in-the-dark-list/
- https://allthingsgardener.com/windowless-bathrooms-11-upright-plants/