Apartment Life and Houseplants: The Perfect Match!
Living in New York City often means limited natural light in your apartment, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the beauty and benefits of houseplants. While many plants prefer bright, indirect light, there are plenty of resilient varieties that thrive in low-light or artificial lighting conditions. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting your plant journey, these hardy species are perfect for urban living.
Why Low Light Doesn’t Mean No Light
Even low-light-tolerant plants need some light to thrive. A good rule of thumb is to provide 8–12 hours of indirect light daily or supplement with artificial lighting when natural light is scarce. Without sufficient light, plants may lose their vibrant colors, become leggy, or grow more slowly.
Explore Low-Light Plant Solutions ➡️
Top Low-Light Houseplants for NYC Apartments
These plants are tough, beautiful, and require minimal care—ideal for the fast-paced city lifestyle.
Zamioculcas Zamiifolia (ZZ Plant)
The ZZ plant is a champion of resilience, thriving in low-light environments while adding elegance with its glossy, dark-green leaves. This drought-tolerant plant stores water in its thick roots, allowing it to survive even if you forget to water it for weeks.
Care Tip: Let the soil dry out completely before watering.
Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen)
For a pop of color in low-light spaces, Aglaonema is a top choice. Its vibrant foliage comes in shades of pink, silver, and green, making it a stunning addition to dim hallways or bedrooms. This plant is also believed to bring good luck, adding a touch of positivity to your home.
Care Tip: Water when the soil feels dry, and avoid placing it in direct sunlight.
Sansevieria (Snake Plant)
Known for its architectural beauty and unmatched durability, the Sansevieria is perfect for any light condition. Its sword-like leaves come in shades ranging from deep green to silver, making it a striking choice for apartments.
Varieties Available at Ed’s Plant Shop: Black Coral, Laurentii, Zeylanica, Robusta, and more.
Find Your Perfect Snake Plant ➡️
Epipremnum Aureum (Golden Pothos)
Golden Pothos is a timeless favorite among plant lovers, particularly for low-light spaces. Its heart-shaped leaves feature stunning green and yellow variegation, which adds a lush, tropical vibe to your home. This hardy, trailing plant is incredibly easy to care for, making it perfect for beginners and busy urban dwellers alike.
Care Tip: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, and place it in indirect light to maintain its vibrant variegation.
Philodendron Hederaceum (Heartleaf Philodendron)
The heart-shaped leaves of Philodendron Hederaceum add charm to any space, and its adaptability to both low and bright light makes it a versatile choice. While it appreciates higher humidity, it also thrives in standard apartment conditions.
Care Tip: Mist occasionally to replicate a humid environment, and water when the soil feels dry.
Add a Philodendron to Your Home➡️
Knowing your plants well and helping them grow is a continuous learning process. We are here to help you every step of the way so feel free to reach out via Instagram or send us an email! We believe that everyone is able to successfully care for plants, it’s simply a matter of finding the species for your space!
Need Help Choosing the Right Plant?
Selecting the right plant for your space is essential, and we’re here to make it easy for you. Whether you’re looking for something resilient for a dark corner or a low-maintenance beauty, we’ve got options to suit your lifestyle.
