Do you have a “problem corner” in your home where every plant goes to die? Need to find the best indoor plants for dark rooms? Whether you’re looking for the best plant for a dark bedroom or indoor plants for dark spaces in a small apartment, you aren’t limited to plastic silk plants!
In 2026, the “indoor jungle” look is more popular than ever, but not all of us have floor-to-ceiling windows. I’ve tested dozens of varieties to find the most low-maintenance plants for dark rooms that will actually grow, not just sit there.
What Kind of Light Do You Have?
When searching for plants for very dark rooms, it helps to know your light type:
- Low Light: You can read a book comfortably during the day without a lamp, but there’s no direct sun.
- Dim/Dark Rooms: You need a light on even during the day.
- Dark Areas: Hallways, dark bathrooms, or basements with zero windows (these will need an LED grow light!).
The Best Plants for Dark Rooms and Apartments
Finding indoor plants for dark spaces can be a challenge, especially in dark apartments or bedrooms with low light. While most people think you need a greenhouse, these 15 picks are the best low-maintenance plants for dark rooms that I’ve found to be nearly unkillable.
1. Snake Plant (The Ultimate Dark Room Plant)
The Snake Plant is arguably the best houseplant for a dark room. It is nearly “unkillable” and can handle weeks of neglect.
- Why it’s a winner: It’s one of the top plants for dark bedrooms because it releases oxygen at night.
- Pro Tip: If you’re worried about the snake plant growth rate, just know it’s slow in the shade. Use a light fertilizer for snake plants once a year to keep it healthy.
Related Article: How Much to Water Snake Plant (Care Guide & Tips)
Even though they are hardy, using a light fertilizer for snake plants once a year in spring keeps them from stalling.
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
If you live in a dark apartment, you need a ZZ plant. Its glossy leaves reflect what little light is available, making the room feel brighter.
- Soil Tip: Always use a well-draining ZZ plant soil mix (cactus soil works great) to prevent root rot.
Related Article: How to Water a ZZ Plant – Zamioculcas Watering Guide
3. ‘Raven’ ZZ Plant
This is the “goth” version of the ZZ plant and one of the trendiest dark indoor plants this year. Its leaves turn almost black, making it perfect for “moody” decor.
When repotting, use a well-draining ZZ plant soil mix to prevent root rot in dark corners
Can plants grow in a room with no windows? Only if you use lights for plants. No plant can survive in 100% total darkness forever, but many can survive with just the light from a nearby hallway or a standard lamp.
4. Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)
If you want indoor plants that grow in dark rooms and look beautiful on a shelf, Pothos is it. These trailing vines are very forgiving and can even thrive under fluorescent office lights.
Related Article: How Often to Water Pothos Plant (Watering Guide)
5. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
This is the king of houseplants for dark spaces. It earned its name because it’s as tough as iron, it can handle low light, dust, and even cold dark rooms.
6. Peace Lily
One of the few flowers for dark rooms. It will bloom even with very little light, though the flowers may be smaller than those in brighter spots.
7. Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen)
This is a fantastic indoor plant for dark areas. Choose the varieties with darker green leaves; they are specifically adapted to thrive in dim rooms.
8. Parlor Palm
If you need large indoor plants for dark rooms, the Parlor Palm adds a tropical, tall aesthetic without needing a sunroom.
9. Heartleaf Philodendron
Similar to Pothos, this is one of the most popular houseplants for dark rooms. It’s incredibly easy to propagate in water!
10. Spider Plant
A classic for a reason. It’s one of the best indoor plants for dark places because it’s so adaptable. Plus, it produces “babies” you can share with friends!
11. Maidenhair Fern
Perfect if you’re looking for dark bathroom plants. They love the humidity from the shower and the lower light levels typical of bathroom windows.
Related Article: Boston Fern Care Tips & Remedies
12. Monstera Adansonii
While the “Giant Monstera” needs sun, this vining version is much more tolerant of darker rooms.
13. Calathea (Prayer Plant)
These plants “move” their leaves up and down. They are great plants that do well in dark rooms because their natural habitat is the dark floor of a rainforest.
14. Nerve Plant (Fittonia)
A great small plant for a dark room. It has striking veins and “faints” (wilts) when it needs water, so you’ll always know when it’s thirsty.
15. Dragon Tree (Dracaena)
A tall, architectural plant for a dark room. It handles low light rooms beautifully and only needs water when the top two inches of soil are bone dry.
3 Tips for Plants in Very Dark Rooms
- Don’t Overwater: This is the #1 killer. Plants in dark rooms drink less water because the sun isn’t evaporating it.
- Add Artificial Light: If a corner is truly pitch black, look for lights for plants in dark rooms. A simple LED bulb in a desk lamp can make a huge difference.
- Rotate Your Plants: Every time you water, give the pot a quarter-turn. This prevents the plant from leaning toward the nearest light source.
Plant Warning Signs of Not Enough Light
| Symptom | What it means |
| Leggy Stems | The room is too dark; the plant is “stretching” for light. |
| Yellow Leaves | Usually overwatering (water evaporates slower in the dark!). |
| No New Growth | Your plant is in “survival mode” and needs a tiny bit more light. |
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