Low-light indoor plants: Curry patta, snake plant, peace lily can thrive without sunlight

The peace lily grows well in shaded corners and does the dual job of cleaning the indoor air of pollutants (Image: Canva)

If you worry about having not enough light in your garden, but are still fond of plants, there are various options for plants that can thrive even in low light. You don’t always need a sun-drenched yard or balcony garden to grow lush greenery and even edible plants. If you live in an apartment with limited sunlight or have shaded corners in your garden, you can still grow your own veggies, enjoy fresh herbs, or add a pop of colour to your garden.

From staples like turmeric and curry leaves to decorative favourites like ferns and peace lilies, you can easily create a vibrant garden that doesn’t rely on direct sunlight.

Here are some amazing low-light plants that are perfect for low-light gardens and homes.

Also read | Best air-purifying indoor plants: Choose these low-maintenance plants for health and happiness

Edible plants from India that grow in low light

There are several varieties of edible plants that can thrive in low-light conditions, making them perfect for shaded gardens or indoor spaces.

• Turmeric is one such plant that grows well in partial shade, requiring minimal sunlight. Similarly, curry patta can thrive in partial sunlight, making them an essential addition to your home garden.

• Spinach (palak) is another shade-loving vegetable that grows abundantly in Indian conditions, providing a nutrient-rich option for gardens with limited sunlight.

• Herbs like mint flourish in shaded and moist conditions, while ginger also thrives in partial shade, making it an ideal choice for your low-light balcony.

Ornamental plants native to or popular in India for low light

• If you are looking for greenery in the shade, there are ornamental plants you can choose from. The snake plant is tough and thrives in interior conditions with indirect light, while the Areca palm is a favourite for many Indian homes and will bring a touch of tropical green to shady spots.

• The ubiquitous money plant does wonderfully both indoors and outdoors in low-light conditions, while ferns, which like maidenhair and Boston, do extremely well in humid, shaded areas.

• The peace lily also grows well in shaded corners and does the dual job of cleaning the indoor air of pollutants.

Flowering plants for shade in India

• Flowering plants can bring a burst of colour to shaded gardens. Begonias are a popular choice, and can thrive in shaded areas with their vibrant blooms. Or go for the Busy Lizzie which will add a splash of colour to your gardens while also flourishing in low-light conditions.

• The caladium or Elephant ear, with its strikingly colourful leaves, is a perfect choice for shaded garden spaces. Another standout is the anthurium, known for its vivid flowers, which thrives in humid and shaded conditions.

• The rubber plant is a favourite that adapts well to low-light conditions and adds a modern aesthetic to interiors. The Indian fiddle leaf fig is another trendy indoor plant that can tolerate partial shade. While aloe vera prefers sunlight, it can adapt to indirect light, making it a versatile choice for your home garden.

• When growing plants in low-light conditions, take extra care of the soil conditions and your watering schedule. Choose well-draining soil mix, and water only when the top feels dry, as shaded areas may retain moisture due to humidity.

• Shaded gardens, especially during the monsoons, are prone to pests, so go for organic solutions like neem oil to effectively manage these issues and protect your plants.

• With minimal care and thoughtful planning, these low-light plants can transform your garden into a lush, vibrant sanctuary. Whether you’re growing herbs, vegetables, or ornamental plants, your garden can become a green haven with the right approach even without abundant sunlight.