Indoor Plants That Need No Sunlight

Last Updated on October 1, 2022 by Ellen Christian

Are you looking for indoor plants that need no sunlight? Check out this list of plants that grow without sunlight and start growing today.

When I can’t get out in the garden during the summer, I spend a lot more time with my indoor plants. Check out these unkillable houseplants that clean the air.

Indoor Plants That Need No Sunlight

Winter is long in Vermont and when the ground is covered with snow, I really miss green growing things. Thankfully, I have a whole shelf of houseplants that I can spend time with.

Of course, you can’t stick these plants in a completely black closet. All plants need some amount of light. But, these indoor plants that need no sunlight are quite happy with the light from your lamps or what minimal light comes through your windows.

If you are worried about caring for houseplants, a watering globe will ensure it gets just the right amount of water.

Bromeliad

I’ve always been in love with tropical plants like this bromeliad because they are so colorful. And, since I can’t grow them outside here in Vermont, I can enjoy them inside.

And, thankfully, they are quite happy with fluorescent lighting if you don’t have direct sunlight.

Chinese Evergreen

This is a great plant for anyone who is new to houseplants. When it’s young, you can keep it on the table or a shelf. And, as it gets bigger, you will be able to put it on the floor.

It works wonderfully in an office area. And, it helps to filter the air as well. Older plants will have pretty flowers, but it takes several years for a plant to get to that stage. 

Cast Iron Plant

This plant has also been referred to as an Iron Plant and it’s one of the easiest indoor plants that don’t need sunlight. Just keep them far away from sunlight, and they will be quite happy.

They grow slowly so they won’t take up a lot of room in a small apartment. If you think you have a black thumb, it’s next to impossible to kill this plant.

Dracaena

There are several different varieties of Dracaena plant.  Some are small enough to set on a shelf or table. Others will work best on the ground. This is another houseplant that helps purify the air in your home. 

This does grow best in bright, indirect light. But, it will also be happy in low light areas.

Dumb cane

Dumb cane is otherwise known as dieffenbachia. Be warned that this plant is poisonous to cats and dogs so please don’t add this one to your indoor garden if you have pets.

If you are pet-free and don’t have little children that will try snacking on your plants, this is very pretty. Just be sure to keep it somewhere that you don’t need to touch it regularly.

English ivy

This is one of my very favorite indoor plants that don’t need sunlight. It can tolerate more or less light. And, the more light it has, the more distinct the patterns on the leaves will be. It does like to vine so be sure to put it somewhere it can expand.

If you need indoor plants that need no sunlight for a small room, this is a great option.

Peace lily

You’ve probably seen these in many offices and doctor’s waiting rooms in the past. These large plants are used mostly as floor decor. A plant trolley works great to move plants around.

They have one large white leaf that grows up in the center of the plant. They do quite well with fluorescent lighting but are most likely to flower if they do have some amount of sunlight.

Most common indoor plants that need no sunlight

Here are a few of the most often seen plants for areas with no sun. If you are concerned they need a bit more light, this fluorescent light works wonderfully in very dark areas.

• Philodendron

• Pothos

• Prayer plant

• Snake plant

Summary of indoor plants that need no sunlight

So, here is a complete list that you can choose from. Any of these will do well in an area that has no direct sun. 

• Bromeliad

• Chinese evergreen

• Cast iron plant

• Dracaena

• Dumb cane

• English ivy

• Maidenhair fern

• Parlor palm

• Peace lily

• Peacock plant

• Pepperomia

• Philodendron

• Pothos (easiest of the indoor plants that need no sunlight)

• Prayer plant

• Snake plant

• Spider plant

• Staghorn fern

• ZZ plant

I find it best to make a grouping of plants in one area. It gives more of a color pop and is a wonderful way to make a focal point in your room.

Consider adding an indoor fountain or small statue to the area as well. Check out these flowers that can take full sun all day long. Add a few of them to your garden this year.

• Red palm oil health benefits