Have you been wanting to become a plantito/plantita (just like all of your friends on Facebook and Instagram) but feel discouraged because, well, you live in an apartment or condominium with no access to bright sunlight? Don’t worry, we know how that feels.
[READ: Being plantitos and plantitas is actually good for our mental health]
Fortunately, there are indoor plants that can thrive healthily and beautifully even in low light conditions. Some of them even prefer growing in the shadiest areas of your room, giving you that low-maintenance greenery that you need. Check out some of these indoor plants that don’t require you to put them under the sun—with some even giving healthy air quality to your room in return.
Chinese evergreen
Chinese evergreens take the word ‘easy’ to the next level. They’re available almost everywhere—in fact, your local grocery store might even be selling this plant. Aside from not needing much light, Chinese evergreens also prefer “warm, slightly humid conditions with room temperatures of at least 65 degrees.”
Philodendron
This houseplant is beginning to be a favorite among new plantitos and plantitas because of how it only requires low maintenance care despite its pretty appearance. While philodendrons grow best in medium or brightly lit places, they don’t mind being in spots with low light either.
[READ: 5 IG shops for first-time plant parents on a budget]
If you’re a busy person who doesn’t have time to water plants every now and then, philodendrons would also be among your best picks.
According to a National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) study on adapting space-developed biotechnology to solve problems like indoor air pollution with a goal of using it in future space stations, these plants also effectively remove formaldehyde, a colorless gas with a strong odor that may cause skin, eyes, nose and throat irritation, from the air.
Peace lily
If you’re looking for a houseplant tolerant of low light conditions but has “flowers,” peace lilies are your best bet. It’s known for its eye-catching white “flower,” which is actually a specialized leaf bract. This plant can thrive in shade or partial shade as well as places where only fluorescent lights are available. It is also known for its air purifying abilities, especially in breaking down and neutralizing toxic gases like carbon monoxide and formaldehyde.
[READ: Heads up, home decorators, plantitos and plantitas! Dapitan Arcade is now online]
Golden pothos
Green thumb or not, here’s a plant notorious for being impossible to kill. This beautiful houseplant with heart-shaped green leaves with flecks of yellow is also called the Devil’s ivy because of that reason, which makes it an excellent pick for beginners. According to the same NASA study, golden pothos plants have the ability to remove benzene and carbon monoxide in the air. There are only two lighting conditions you need to avoid in taking care of this plant, which are full, direct sunlight and complete darkness.
[READ: For plant parents, art that doubles as faux plant companions for your ‘children’]
ZZ plant
We don’t often hear about the ZZ plant, whose scientific name is Zamioculcas zamifolia (hence “ZZ plant”), but we swear, it’s not as hard to find as you may think. Its vibrant green color and waxy leaf texture make people think it’s made of plastic—and caring for it almost makes it feel like that, too. ZZ plants are perfectly fine with low light conditions and low humidity. It can also survive even if you only water it once every couple of weeks.
[READ: No soil or water needed: Macrame leaves inspired by houseplants for people without green thumbs]
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