Easy-care green plants for dark corners | A guide for beginners and plant geeks
Hey there! Are you one of those who dream of green oases in your home but sigh deeply when you see how dark it is inside? Maybe you're thinking: "Which plants can actually stand in the dark? Do I have to move to a greenhouse?"
Don't worry, you don't have to move - and you definitely don't have to give up. In fact, there are several indoor green plants that thrive in shade and are so kind that they practically take care of themselves.
Here at the store, we love challenges with hard-to-grow, tropical rarities like amazon shield , cacao tree and vanilla plant , but we also understand that not everyone has the time or patience for that. So let's talk about the easy-care favorites that get the job done—without complaint.
Which houseplants tolerate shade and darkness?
We have handpicked some green delights that can stand in less bright corners and still look brilliant. Perfect for those who want green plants as decoration without having to become a part-time botanist.
1. Porcelain flower (Hoya) | The hardy hanging plant
Hoya latifolia has leaves that can be up to 25cm long.
The porcelain flower is a classic, it is both easy to care for and flexible - place it in a lampshade and let its thick waxy leaves hang down in a cozy corner.
It can bloom with small, fragrant flowers, but even when your porcelain flower is not blooming, it is still worth having for its lovely foliage. The leaves and flowers of hoya can vary greatly depending on the species. Some have large green leaves like hoya latifolia while others have feathery soft straws to leaves like Hoya linearis. As for the care advice for the porcelain flower, it is simple: a little water, enough light, and lots of classical music, preferably Erik Satie, don't ask us why.
2. Elephant ear (Pilea peperomioides) – Can stand in the middle of the room!
Pilea peperomioides stem can be up to 50cm long!
Yes, you read that right. Elephant ears can even stand in the middle of the room. The elephant ear does love light, but it's a tough little rascal who can handle further into the room too. Give it a spot with indirect light, and it will continue to decorate the room with its cute, round leaves and tree-like trunk.
3. Philodendron – The tropical survivor
Philodendron micans is perfect as a creeper or in ampel!
If you want big green plants that can handle anything and also look like they belong in a rainforest, then Philodendron is a given choice. This genus likes shade and yet grows as if it is training for the plant Olympics in Russia. It is also one of the few tropical plants on our list that is perfect for beginners.
What does full shade mean for indoor plants?
The fact that plants can handle full shade does not mean that they thrive in total darkness (unfortunately, the closet is not a good idea for the closet flower). It is rather that they do not need direct sunlight to survive and feel good. These plants like to stand a little further into the room, in the shade of curtains or furniture.
Philodendron melanochrysum has velvety leaves and grows incredibly fast.
Many of our now-common houseplants originated on the jungle floor, which, contrary to popular belief, has very low light levels.
Green plants to suit all budgets
If you're looking for inexpensive green plants that don't cost a fortune, these three genera are a great choice. They provide maximum greenery for minimal effort and fit just as well in small apartments as in large houses.
Here in our plant shop , we are always there to help you find the right green roommate. So don't hesitate to stop by or get in touch if you want more tips on easy-care green indoor plants or those more exotic options on your dream list.
