Low-Light Houseplants

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Think you can't grow houseplants because you don't have enough light inside? These plants thrive in low light:
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Peace lily (Spathiphyllum)
  • Peace lily (Spathiphyllum) has fragrant white flowers similar to those of the calla lily; its foliage is clean and rich green.

  • Devil's ivy (Pothos) is useful for softening up almost any area. Place it on a ledge or on top of a bookcase and let its long, cascading stems gently spill over the side.
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    Mother-in-law's tongue (Sansevieria)
  • Snake plant, or mother-in-law's tongue (Sansevieria), has an upright growth habit and variegated foliage for an extra punch of color. The structural leaves are tall, long and narrow, resembling several snakes in one pot.
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    Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema)
  • Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema) is an excellent plant prized for its bushy habit and variegated look. An added advantage: this plant loves to be pot-bound, so you don't have to worry about repotting it every year.

    With all of these plants, it's very important to "neglect with respect." In other words, don't over-water. This is especially important in low-light conditions. Water only when the plants are dry; fertilize about once a month but only during the growing season.