If you’re looking for indoor plants that can thrive in low light conditions, then you’ll want to check out our list of the 24 best indoor low light succulents. These plants are perfect for dark rooms and offices, as they don’t need a lot of sunlight to survive. Succulent plants are easy to take care of, and they will brighten up any room in your house!
Though often associated with hot, arid deserts, succulents are actually quite versatile plants. Most succulent varieties can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from bright direct sun to low-light environments.
Succulents are some of the easiest plants to care for, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes. These indoor plants are perfect for adding a touch of life to rooms or office spaces that don’t get enough light. Some succulents can grow in direct sunlight, but others need just a few hours of light a day. In this article, we’ll show you 24 of the best indoor low light succulents that are sure to thrive in your dark space
Are there any indoor succulents that do well in low light?
Yes, there are such succulent plants. While most succulents need plenty of sunlight, there are a few varieties that do well in low-light conditions. For example, the Snake Plant or Aloe Vera is a type of succulent that does well in partial shade. Many other succulents that need less light include echeveria, kalanchoe, aeonium, crassula, and sedum. These plants can tolerate lower light levels without suffering from leaf loss or etiolation. They are ideal for growing in offices or rooms with limited natural light.
Low light succulents are adapted to survive in environments with less intense sunlight compared to other types of succulents. While they can tolerate lower light levels, it’s important to understand that they still require some light to thrive.
What succulents can tolerate low light conditions?
These 24 best low light succulents don’t require full sun to thrive to decorate your home or office!
1. Echeveria
The Echeveria plant is a stunning and beloved member of the succulent family, admired for its captivating rosette-like arrangement of fleshy leaves and its remarkable ability to thrive in various climates and conditions. With a diverse range of species and hybrids, Echeverias have become popular not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their ease of care.
These plants are known for their ease of propagation. Echeverias can be grown from leaves, offsets (baby plants that sprout around the base of the parent plant), or seeds. These amazing succulents are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, making them an excellent option for those who want to add some greenery to their home without having to worry about watering it often.
2. Schlumbergera (Christmas cactus, Thanksgiving cactus)
The Schlumbergera genus is a group of flowering cacti that are native to Brazilian coastal regions. These cacti are best known for their blooming season, which typically takes place in the fall and winter months.
The flowers of Schlumbergera cacti are often brightly colored and can be quite striking against the plant’s green or gray-green stems. Generally grown as house plants like low light succulents, these cacti can also be found in public gardens and parks.
3. Aloe Plant
Aloe vera plant is a type of low-light succulent that is well-known for its healing properties. The botanical name for the Aloe vera plant is Aloe Barbadensis, which means “true aloe”. The gel inside the leaves can be used to soothe burns or cuts, making it a great plant to have around the house.
Additionally, aloe vera is quite easy to care for and can tolerate low light areas quite well. Aloe vera plant grows best in warm, dry climates and stores water In its leaves. It is a tough plant that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions.
4. Snake plant
The Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata, Mother-In-Law’s Tongue) is a succulent perennial with leaves that are sharply margined and dark green. Mature leaves often have light gray-green cross-banding. Snake plants are another type of succulent that does well in low light environments.
These plants are native to Africa and can grow up to four feet tall. In addition to their air-purifying properties, Sansevieria trifasciata make a great choice for indoor spaces. They are also very tolerant of drought and can go long periods without water. It is a great choice for the beginning houseplant enthusiast.
5. String of hearts (Ceropegia Woodii)
The String of Hearts, also known as the Sweetheart Vine, is a native plant of South Africa. It was discovered hanging from rocks in its natural habitat. The String of Hearts is a trailing vine with heart-shaped leaves. It has tubular flowers that are either red or white.
This plant is easy to grow and can be kept as a houseplant. The String of Hearts prefers a sunny spot and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and does not require much water. This plant is also known for being a good air purifier.
6. String of pearls (Senecio Rowleyanus)
The String of Pearls is a succulent plant that can be found in South Africa and Namibia. It gets its name from the string of small, round leaves that grow from the stem. The leaves are green and have a reddish tinge when they are young.
The flowers are small and white, and they grow in clusters. The String of Pearls is a very low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It can be grown in a pot or in the ground, and it does not need much water. The String of Pearls stores water in its leaves, which makes it very drought-tolerant.
This plant is also known as the String of Beads, the Bead Plant, or the Raindrop Grapevine. The String of Pearls plant can be propagated by cuttings or by division. To care for your String of Pearls plant, water it when the soil is dry to the touch.
7. Foxtail (Agave attenuate)
Foxtail agave, also known as attenuate agave, is a succulent plant that is native to Mexico. The plant can reach heights of up to 6 feet tall and features long, narrow leaves that are typically green in color. The Foxtail agave produces an edible flower stalk that blooms in late
Foxtail agaves are drought tolerant and can be grown in a wide range of soil types. They are also relatively easy to care for, making them a good choice for those who are new to gardening. Foxtail agaves can be propagated from offsets or seeds, and typically bloom every four to eight years.
Foxtail Agaves are popular in indoor gardens because they are low maintenance and require little water. They are also resistant to pests and diseases, which makes them a good option for those looking for a low-maintenance plant. Foxtail agaves (lion’s tail) can be grown in full sun or partial shade, and prefer well-drained soil.
If you are looking for a drought-tolerant, undemanding plant for your landscape, the Foxtail agave is a good option to consider.
8. Wax Plant or Porcelain Flower (Hoya Carnosa)
The Porcelain flower is another type of beautiful indoor plant that is perfect for adding a touch of class to your home. This plant prefers to grow in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate lower light conditions. Commonly found in Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia, this plant is native to Southeast Asia. This is a fast-growing vine that can reach up to 10 feet in length.
This plant can be easily recognized by its thick, succulent leaves that are green on top and purple on the bottom. The flowers of the Porcelain plant are star-shaped and clusters, with a sweet fragrance.
The Porcelain Flower plant is a beautiful addition to any home or garden and is easy to care for. Plants of this species can tolerate drought and can be allowed to dry out completely between waterings.
This tropical plant does best in a well-draining potting mix. If the leaves of the Wax plant begin to turn yellow, it is an indication that the plant is not getting enough water.
The star-shaped blooms of the Hoya Carnosa plant are a beautiful sight to behold. These delicate flowers are sure to impress any onlookers and add a touch of elegance to any room. This fast-growing plant responds well to pruning and can be propagated by stem cuttings or by seed, so you can easily keep it looking its best.
If you’re looking for a plant that is sure to make a statement, then look no further than the Hoya or Porcelain flower.
9. Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
The Jade Plant is a succulent that is native to South Africa. It is prized for its thick, fleshy dark green leaves and branches that can store water, making it tolerant of drought conditions.
The Jade Plants are also popular for their ability to bloom flowers in shades of pink, white, or red. Although the Jade Plant is typically grown as a houseplant, it can also be found in gardens and public parks.
This low-light succulent grows up to 4 feet tall and 6 feet wide and is commonly called Money Tree.
10. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas Zamiifolia, Zanzibar Gem)
The Zanzibar Gem is a low-light succulent that can thrive in indirect light or partial shade. It is a hardy plant that can survive droughts, making it an ideal choice for those who want a low maintenance plant.
The ZZ plant does best in bright, open rooms and has individual leaf longevity of at least six months. To prevent overwatering, the Zanzibar gem should only be watered when the soil is dry. The large potato-shaped rhizome stores water until rainfall resumes, making it a resilient plant that can withstand periods of drought.
For these reasons, the Zanzibar Gem is an ideal choice for those who want an easy-care plant that can survive in low light conditions.
11. Mistletoe Cactus
The Mistletoe Cactus is a plant that originates from Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Florida. It is the only type of cactus that occurs naturally outside America. This plant may have spread from South America to Africa via European ships which eventually led to the species crossing the Atlantic Ocean.
The mistletoe cactus is an extremely tolerant low-light succulent that does well in partial shade or indirect sunlight. When watering this plant, it is important to allow the top 5 – 7 centimeters of soil to dry and then water thoroughly.
It is also recommended to aim for 1 watering a month in Fall / Winter and to mist more frequently than you water; 2 – 3x per week. Although the mistletoe cactus does not require additional nutrients, it is important to use well-draining soil. This plant should also be avoided in temperatures below 15°C.
12. String Of Bananas (Senecio radicans)
The String of Bananas (Senecio Radicans) is a close relative of the popular string of pearls succulent but is known for being faster growing and easier to care for.
Originally from South Africa, a String of Bananas is an Asteraceae species with long, hanging tendrils bearing glossy, banana-shaped leaves. Hang it as a houseplant or train it to grow upward on a trellis or moss pole according to your taste.
A string of bananas grows best in indirect sunlight but can also tolerate lower light conditions. This plant is perfect for hanging baskets since it cascades beautifully over the sides. Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy and fertilize monthly during the growing season.
13. The Candle Plant (Senecio Articulates)
The Candle Plant (Senecio Articulates) is a rare and unusual plant that thrives in indirect sunlight and well-draining soil. Its stems are bluish-green or gray, and its leaves (which appear half the time) are olive green atop and purple below.
This plant prefers partial shade, making it the perfect addition to any low-light succulent collection.
14. Crassula (Crassulaceae)
The Crassula (Crassulaceae) plant is a succulent that can tolerate low light settings. It can grow in dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for a low-maintenance plant. Over 300 species of Crassula (Crassula) exist, most of them in South African arid zones. Plants with thick-fleshed, succulent leaves are known by their botanical name, as “Crassus” means “thick.”
Crassulas can burn their leaves if they receive too much direct sunlight. They can lose their leaves if they receive too little sunlight. It is best to place the Crassula in a bright place. Because this plant is grown without direct sunlight, in summer the Crassula better not stand directly in front of a south window. A 1-meter distance from the window should be enough.
Crassula species range in growth height from low, flat-growing species to shrubs 3.50 m tall. They also vary greatly in shape and color. Choose This low light succulent for your next indoor plant!
15. Haworthia
Haworthia is low-light succulent that should avoid bright light. They are slow-growing, but their small size and low maintenance requirements make them a popular choice for indoor gardens.
A subfamily of Asphodeloideae, they generally resemble miniature aloes, except for their flowers, which are distinctively shaped. The Haworthia species are generally native to semi-shady habitats (under bushes or rock overhangs), so they grow best in shade.
Haworthia comes in a variety of shapes and colors, so there is sure to be a type that will fit your style. These plants are a great way to add some life to your home without having to worry about them too much.
16. Kalanchoe Tomentosa (Panda Plant)
About 125 species of Kalanchoe are native to Madagascar and tropical Africa, belonging to the stonecrop family Crassulaceae.
These low light succulents are the perfect plant for light succulents that need partial shade and indirect light. They are easy to grow and have beautiful blooms that last for weeks. Kalanchoes can be used as accents in gardens or as indoor plants.
If you’re looking for a light and airy succulent to add some life to your shady spot, the Panda Plant is perfect! This unusual succulent thrives in partial shade or indirect light. With its soft furry leaves and delicate color, the Panda Plant is sure to bring a touch of elegance to any space. So why not add one to your collection today? You won’t be disappointed! They are perfect for beginners and make a great addition to any home.
17. The Ponytail Palm Tree (Beaucarnea recurvata)
It’s no surprise that this tropical plant has been a popular houseplant in recent years. It is visually stunning, with a sleek bulb-like trunk and long, curly leaves, and it can thrive in partial shade or indirect light. There’s a ponytail palm tree that neither looks like a palm tree nor acts as a palm tree.
Actually, it is a succulent and a member of the Agave family. If you’re looking for a low-light setting for your Beaucarnea, consider placing it near a window where it will receive partial sun. This low-light succulent is forgiving and easy in its care plant which can be found in many people’s homes.
18. Bear’s paw (Cotyledon Tomentosa)
The SANBI Red List of South African Plants lists Bear’s Paw as vulnerable because it is found in small populations and is threatened by habitat degradation, illegal gathering for the succulent trade, and other factors.
The most striking feature of the Bear’s Paw Plant is its thick, fleshy leaves that are covered in fine white hairs, giving them a velvety texture. The leaves are typically green or gray-green, with reddish or brownish edges, and are arranged in a rosette pattern that resembles a bear’s pawprint.
Bear’s Paw Plants are relatively easy to care for. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch (2.5 cm) of the soil is dry. During the active growing season (spring and summer), water more frequently, but reduce watering in the dormant period (fall and winter).
Provide bright, indirect sunlight for the Bear’s Paw Plant. While it can tolerate some direct sunlight, too much light can scorch its leaves. A south- or east-facing window with filtered light is ideal. This plant is best suited for average room temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Protect it from frost and extreme temperature fluctuations.
In the right conditions, Bear’s Paw Plants can produce small, bell-shaped flowers on tall stalks. The flowers are often shades of pink or orange and can add an extra touch of beauty to the plant.
Overall, the Bear’s Paw Plant is a delightful and unique addition to any succulent collection, and with proper care, it can thrive and bring joy to its caretaker.
19. Zebra Plant or Zebra Cactus (Haworthia Attenuata)
The Haworthia Attenuata, also known as the Zebra Plant, is a succulent that is found in South Africa. It is an evergreen plant that has short leaves that are arranged in rosettes. These leaves are tapered and have bands of white tubercles on them. This succulent is popular as a house plant because it is resistant to drought and is generally hardy.
During the summer, the plant should be watered evenly and generously, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. In the winter, the plant can be watered as infrequently as once every two weeks. This beautiful miniature very low-maintenance succulent is an excellent choice for placing on window sills, study tables, and office desks.
20. Gasteria Carinata
There are many types of Gasteria Carinata plants, but one of the best-known is Bredasdorp Gasteria or Kemped Gasteria native to South Africa’s Western Cape Province.
Having triangular leaves that are mottled in color and channeled on their upper surfaces, this species is highly variable. Plants that reach maturity usually have keels on their leaves, as well as sharp points at the tips. In these leaves, tiny spots are arranged in bands, giving the leaves a faint stripe-like appearance.
Typically, this species occurs in rocky areas in Renosterveld and Fynbos vegetation in the southern part of the Western Cape Province, South Africa.
21. Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia Milii)
The Crown of Thorns plant, also known as Euphorbia Milii, is a species of flowering plant native to Madagascar. It is a woody succulent subshrub or shrub growing to 1.8 m (5 ft 11 in) tall, with densely spiny stems. It is commonly used as an ornamental houseplant that can be grown indoors.
The Сrown of Thorns plant gets its name from the thorns that cover its stems, which are said to resemble the crown of thorns that was worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion. Christ plant is not hardy and does not tolerate temperatures below 10 °C (50 °F).
Although this plant needs bright light, it can also grow in partial shade. The sap is moderately poisonous, causing irritation if it comes in contact with the skin or eyes. It is very toxic to pets. For humans, the plant is only mildly toxic and typically only causes irritation.
In its native habitat, the straight, slender spines, up to 3 cm (1.2 in) long, help it scramble over other plants. The flowers are small, subtended by a pair of conspicuous petal-like bracts, variably red, pink, or white, up to 12 mm (0.47 in) broad. The plant thrives between spring and summer but produces flowers all year round. Window sills will look beautiful with this unusual and rare plant!
22. Burro’s tail
With its enchanting cascading vines of plump, succulent leaves, the Burro’s Tail plant stands as a testament to nature’s artistry. Also known as Sedum Morganianum or the “Donkey Tail” plant, its unique appearance is characterized by its lush, blue-green foliage that forms a captivating display of trailing tendrils. The long, flowing leaves of Burro’s Tail make it an excellent indoor plant for hanging baskets.
The Burro’s Tail is not only a visual delight but also an easy-care companion, thriving with minimal attention. Its ability to store water in its leaves enables it to endure periods of drought, making it an excellent choice for forgetful or busy plant enthusiasts.
Though they prefer to have a lot of light, they can also grow well in low light environments. You will need to water them more in the summer than you do in the winter, but be careful not to overwater them because it will cause the plant to rot.
23. Haworthia Margaritifera (Pearl Plant)
Haworthia Margaritifera, also known as the Pearl Plant, is a succulent with a deep green rosette of fleshy leaves and white dots (like pearls) around them. This cute succulent is a great choice for dark rooms or offices because it does well in low-light settings. Haworthia Margaritifera grows in shady areas in South Africa, so it is used to living in places with less light.
This beautiful succulent plant is also drought-tolerant and easy to care for, making it a great choice for those who want to add a bit of greenery to their home without having to worry about maintenance.
Interesting fact: when Haworthia is stressed, it may change its leaf color from dark green to purple-red.
Care: Use fast-draining soil mixed with perlite for optimal drainage. You should water it once a month at the base, and make sure to avoid getting water on the leaves. Between watering sessions, allow it to dry out and drain well. For the best growth, provide this plant with a few hours of indirect or bright direct light each day.
24. Gasteraloe (Green Ice)
Gasteraloe (Green Ice) is a succulent that does well in low-light conditions. If you’re looking for an easy-to-care-for plant that will thrive in a dark room, Gasteraloe is an excellent choice. This succulent has broad green leaves with gray stripes and spots that form a dense rosette.
It’s a slow-growing plant, so you won’t need to worry about repotting it too often. Gasteraloe is a hybrid of Aloe and Gasteria, two popular succulents. It’s a hardy plant that is easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginner succulent growers.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are plenty of succulent species you can use to brighten up dreary hallways and rooms without sufficient sunlight. If you are growing succulents indoors, make sure to place them in a bright spot near a window. If your home does not get much bright sun, you can supplement with grow lights.
Give low light succulents some good drainage, and avoid overwatering them since root rot is a more serious threat than less bright light. Our list of 24 best low light succulents should give you plenty of inspiration for your home. Choose a variety that suits your light conditions, and enjoy the beauty of these amazing plants.
Make your indoor ‘shade garden’ a lush and juicy oasis by filling those dark corners with great low light succulents!
FAQ
What Are Low Light Conditions?
Low light conditions for plants refer to situations where the intensity and duration of light available for photosynthesis and growth are below the optimal requirements for the specific plant species. Low light conditions typically refer to spaces where there is limited direct sunlight. This could include areas with filtered or indirect sunlight, such as rooms with north-facing windows or spaces further away from windows.
Keep in mind that while some plants can tolerate low light, they may not grow as quickly or exhibit the same vibrant colors as those exposed to more light. It’s important to monitor their growth and adjust care accordingly to ensure they remain healthy. Inadequate light can hinder photosynthesis, leading to slower growth, elongated stems, pale foliage, and reduced flowering.
How Much Light Do Low Light Succulents Need?
Even low light succulents need some level of light to carry out photosynthesis and maintain their health. While they don’t require intense sunlight, they will still benefit from bright, indirect light. Insufficient light can lead to stretching, where the plants grow taller and thinner in an attempt to reach for more light.
Low light succulents typically require around 4 to 6 hours of indirect or filtered sunlight per day. This can vary based on factors such as the specific species of succulent, the intensity of the light, and the climate conditions.
Can Succulents Survive In A Windowless Room?
Unfortunately, windowless rooms can present a challenge for succulents to grow indoors, as they typically require bright indirect light in order to thrive. However, succulent plants can survive in windowless rooms if you provide them with artificial light like fluorescent light in offices.
If you’re determined to grow succulents in a windowless room, your best bet is to choose a variety that can tolerate low light. You can create the necessary conditions for your succulents using grow lights. With a little care and attention, your succulents will be happy and healthy, even in a windowless room.
How Long Can Succulents Survive Without Bright Light?
Succulents can only survive without light for a short period of time, as they need at least six to eight hours of sunlight a day to grow and thrive. How long these plants can live without light depends on the type of succulent.
Sun-loving succulent varieties can tolerate no light conditions for about 2 weeks, but after that, they will start to stretch and die. Some shade-tolerant succulents may last longer. Most succulents would begin to die after about a month without any light.
How Do You Grow Succulents Indoors Without Sunlight?
One of the great things about succulents is that they can thrive in a wide variety of environments. However, if you live in a home with low light levels, you may need to take some extra steps to ensure that your plants stay healthy. Here are a few tips to help you keep your succulents healthy in a low-light environment:
– Choose the right plant. It’s important to choose the right types of succulents that are naturally adapted to low light conditions. Some examples of low light succulents include Sansevieria (Snake Plant), Zamioculcas Zamiifolia (ZZ Plant), and some species of Haworthia.
– Be cautious with watering, as these succulents won’t dry out as quickly in lower light conditions. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
– Make sure they get enough light. Providing 4 to 6 hours of indirect sunlight is a general guideline. Place them near a north-facing window or a few feet away from a brighter window. Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch their leaves. Rotate the plants regularly to ensure even light exposure and prevent one-sided growth.
Remember that while low light succulents can survive in less intense light, they may not grow as robustly or display as vibrant colors as they would in brighter conditions. If you’re looking for more active growth and vibrant colors, it’s a good idea to provide them with the best possible light conditions within your indoor space.
With a little extra care, your succulents can do well even in low-light environments.
Author
Susan is a plant lover with over 10 years of experience caring for houseplants. She enjoys watching her plants thrive and sharing her knowledge with others. As the writer for this website, Susan offers simple, practical tips to help readers grow happy and healthy plants.
