9 Best Indoor Succulents Low Light That Thrive In Dark Rooms

Providing appropriate light for succulents can be difficult, especially when you live in a region where natural light is scarce. The majority of succulents enjoy bright, indirect light.

In addition, succulents are incredibly flexible, and some varieties may even flourish in the shadow. Here’s a list of the best indoor succulents in low light:

  • Aloe Vera
  • Gasteria
  • Haworthia margaritifera
  • Echeverias
  • Rhipsalis
  • Kalanchoe
  • Hoya
  • Snake Plant (Sanseveria Trifasciata)
  • Recurvata Beaucarnea 

If you are growing succulents in less than optimum lighting conditions, keep reading to find out the top 9 best indoor succulents in low light and all their characteristics. You might also enjoy reading: Top 10 Amazing Benefits Of Succulent Plants On Your Mind and Body.

Best-Indoor-Succulents-Low-Light-That-Thrive-In-Dark-Room
Best-Indoor-Succulents-Low-Light-That-Thrive-In-Dark-Room

9 Best Indoor Succulents Low Light

Even though succulents are generally sun-loving plants, there are also many indoor succulents that thrive in low light.

Here is a list of the top 9 best indoor succulents in low light, including their characteristics.

1- Aloe Vera

Aloe is a vast genus that includes small dwarf species as well as big tree-like plants that may grow up to 30 feet tall (10m). In the shade, small aloe species, dwarf species, and hybrids thrive and make excellent interior house flowers in pots and containers.

They have thick, meaty leaves that are green to bluish-grey-green. White specks can be observed on the stalk surfaces of some types. Clusters and offshoots are how they spread. Even if they are suitable, these plants make excellent novice or starting plants.

Despite this, the plant flourished and continued to grow. It had to be replanted several times since it generated so many spinoffs and young plants.

Common nameAloe
Watering requirementsWater Aloe Vera once a month during wintertime.
TypeHerbaceous perennial
Family Asphodelaceae
Height12 to 24 inches (30.48 to 60.96 cm)
Spread6 to 12 inches (15.24 to 30.48 cm)
Sun exposure Full sun
Temperature– 50F to 60F degree nights in summer
– Minimum of 40F degrees in winter.
Flower ColorYellow
Maintenance Requirement Low
USDA Hardiness Zone10 to 12
Region of OriginArabian Peninsula
Table Displays Aloe Vera Plants Characteristics – plantsheaven.com
Best Indoor Succulents Low Light That Thrive In Dark Room
9 Best Indoor Succulents Low Light That Thrive In Dark Room – plantsheaven.com

2- Gasteria

It gets its name from the form of the bloom it creates, which resembles a stomach. The word “gaster” comes from the Latin word “gastrum.” They are indigenous to South Africa and thrive in light shade with lots of rain.

See also: Best Tips To Propagating Succulents with Honey.

They feature curving, stomach-shaped blooms and long, thick, grooved leaves. Most bacteria species evolved to grow inside and can tolerate low light levels. They work well in hot, bright, but indirect light as well.

Most people require shelter from extreme heat or direct sunlight. They’ve become popular indoor houseplants, and they thrive in pots and pots, as well as in shady regions.

Genus name Gasteria spp.
Common nameOxtongue, gasteria, Cow’s tongue
Plant type Perennial succulent
Mature SizeBetween 4 to 24 inches (10.16 to 60.96 cm) tall
Watering requirementsA rich, sandy, and well-draining soil
Sun exposureGrow well in full sun to part shade.
TemperatureGrow well in temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit
pH6 to 7
Soil requirement Rich, sandy, and well-draining soil
Flower ColorPink and red
USDA Hardiness Zone9 – 11
Region of OriginSouth Africa
Table Displays Gasteria Plants Characteristics – plantsheaven.com
Best Indoor Succulents Low Light That Thrive In Dark Room
9 Best Indoor Succulents Low Light That Thrive In Dark Room – plantsheaven.com

3- Haworthia margaritifera

These are a vast genus of miniature succulents native to South and South-West Africa. Some haworthia species have a similar look to aloe vera, and it can be mistaken for it.

Although most haworthia species can grow in low light, they thrive in a bright, warm climate. They require shelter from extreme heat or direct sunlight and are among the best indoor succulents and low-light plants.

See also: Haworthia fasciata vs. Attenuata: How Can You Differentiate Them?

Many species have stiff, meaty leaves that are generally dark green, while others have gentler, plump leaves with transparent, glassy surfaces that let sunlight pass through for photosynthesis.

Genus name Haworthia
Common name– Zebra Cactus
– Haworthia
– Pearl plant
– Star window plant
– Cushion aloe
Family Asphodelaceae
Plant typePerennial succulent
Plant size – 3 to 5 inches (7.62 to 12.7 cm) tall and wide
– Some species of Haworthia can reach 20 inches (50.8 cm) tall
Watering requirementsWater about twice a month during summer and once during winter.
Sun exposureThrives in full sun and partial shade.
TemperatureMost haworthia species require at 50 degrees Fahrenheit to thrive.
Flower ColorWhite
USDA Hardiness Zone9 – 11
Region of OriginSouth Africa
Table Displays Haworthia margaritifera Plants Characteristics – plantsheaven.com
9 Best Indoor Succulents Low Light That Thrive In Dark Room – plantsheaven.com

4- Echeverias

Echeverias may be found from Mexico to northwestern South America. Echeverias are known for their beautiful rosettes with intricate details. Rosettes come in a variety of forms and sizes, ranging from compact, short-stemmed rosettes to lengthy stems with drooping rosettes.

See also: What Are The Differences Between Echeveria vs. Aeonium?

Most people require filtered strong light but must be shielded from direct sunlight. They’re native to Mexico, and they’re not frost-hardy plants.

Genus name Echeveria spp.
Common nameEcheveria
Watering requirementsa rich and well-draining soil
Mature size 12 inches (31 cm.)
Plant type Succulent
Sun exposureGrow well in direct and bright light
Soil type rich and well-draining soil
TemperatureEcheveria thrives in temperature between 65 F to 70 F in summer and 50 F in winter.
Flower ColorDepending on the variety
USDA Hardiness Zone
9 to 11
Region of OriginCentral America
Table Displays Echeverias Plants Characteristics – plantsheaven.com
Best Indoor Succulents Low Light That Thrive In Dark Room
9 Best Indoor Succulents Low Light That Thrive In Dark Room – plantsheaven.com

5- Rhipsalis

Rhipsalis is a cactus genus found in South America’s jungles and South America. It stands out from other succulents for two reasons. For starters, they are members of the genus by origin.

Plants that grow just on the surface of many other plants are known as epiphytes. Moisture and nutrients are obtained from their environment. The second feature that distinguishes them and makes them one of the best indoor succulents of low light is that they are endemic to rainforests.

See also: What Temperature Is Actually Too Cold For Succulents?

Whereas most people seem to think about cacti and succulents as tropical plants that thrive in bright, dry circumstances, Rhipsalis does not.  It will thrive as an indoor plant or in low-light environments.

Rhipsalis plants thrive in full sun in the morning and full shade in the afternoon. With thick, overhanging tree branches encircling its natural environment, Rhipsalis is well protected from the sun’s rays.

Genus nameRhipsalis spp.
Common nameMistletoe cactus
Plant TypeEpiphytic cacti or llthophytic
 Mature SizeDepending on the species and age of the plant, they can grow up 12 to 240 inches (30.48 to 609.6 cm).
Watering requirements– Keep the mistletoe cactus moist, but avoid overwatering them.
– When you see falling leaves, it can mean that the plant is overwatered.
Soil pHMistletoe cactus thrives in acidic pH between 5.0 to 6.5
Sun exposureMistletoe cactus prefers part shade to full shade
Temperature– Rhipsalis plants thrive in warm tropical temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
– Mistletoe cactus are not tolerant of frost.
– During the dry months of winter, you can provide them with extra moisture by putting them in a room humidifier.
Flower ColorCreamy yellow or white
Bloom TimeWhen grown in ideal conditions, Rhipsalis generally bloom year-round depending on the species.
USDA Hardiness Zone9 to 11
Region of OriginAfrica, South America, and Tropical.
Table Displays Rhipsalis Plants Characteristics – plantsheaven.com
Best Indoor Succulents Low Light That Thrive In Dark Room
9 Best Indoor Succulents Low Light That Thrive In Dark Room – plantsheaven.com

6- Kalanchoe

Native to Madagascar, Kalanchoe has tiny bushes with thick succulent foliage and comes in a variety of shapes. And it is one of the best indoor succulents in low light with little shrubs with dense succulent foliage.

Some leaves are smooth, while others have fine fuzzy hair covering them. Kalanchoes are excellent interior house plants and are frequently used as potted plants.

Find out the truth about growing succulent plants in the shade.

They are incredibly versatile and simple to cultivate, surviving in low light while preferring bright, indirect light, and can even withstand extreme heat. They create clusters of brightly colored blossoms and flowers.

Genus nameKalanchoe blossfeldiana
Common name– Flaming Katy
– Kalanchoe
– Christmas kalanchoe
FamilyCrassulaceae
Plant type – Succulent
– Perennial
Plant size 6 to 18 inches (15.24 to 45.72 cm)
Watering requirements– If you have a habit of sometimes forgetting to water your plants, a kalanchoe can be perfect for you.
– It thrives with minimal watering, only every few weeks and even less often during winter.
Sun exposureIt thrives in full sun to partial shade
Soil requirements It grows well in rich, well-drained, and sandy soil.
TemperatureBetween 55 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit
Flower Color– Orange
– Yellow
– Pink
– Red
– White
ToxicityEven though they are considered non-toxic to humans, they are toxic to pets.
USDA Hardiness Zone10 to 12
Region of OriginMadagascar (Africa)
Table Displays Kalanchoe Plants Characteristics – plantsheaven.com
9 Best Indoor Succulents Low Light That Thrive In Dark Room – plantsheaven.com

7- Hoya

Hoya plants are recognized for their thick, nearly heart-shaped leaflets and vine-like features and are native to South India, East Asia, and Australia. The Indian Rope or Honey Plant is another name for Hoyas.

See also: How To Successfully Deal With Splitting Lithops?

Succulents aren’t found in all hoya species, although some are.  These plants don’t require direct sunshine to thrive. Most thrive in part shade and require shelter from both extreme heat and frost. They are commonly planted as indoor plants in hanging baskets.

Genus name Hoya carnosa
Common name– Hoya
– Waxflower
– Wax plant
– Honey plant
– Indian rope plant
– Porcelain flower
Plant type Tropical succulent
Plant size 144 to 240 inches (365.76 to 609.6 cm)
Watering requirements– It is a good idea to water hoyas weekly.
-Allow it to dry completely between waterings.
– Hoyas do best in moist and warm, humid climates.
Sun exposureHoyas prefer bright and natural light.
pH6.1 to 7.5
Bloom time – Summer
– Spring
– Fall
Flower Color– Near black
– Pink
– White
– Yellow
– Orange
– Burgundy
USDA Hardiness Zone8 to 11
Region of OriginAustralia and tropical Asia
Table Displays Hoya Plants Characteristics – plantsheaven.com
Best Indoor Succulents Low Light That Thrive In Dark Room
9 Best Indoor Succulents Low Light That Thrive In Dark Room – plantsheaven.com

8- Snake Plant (Sanseveria Trifasciata)

Snake plants (commonly called Mother-in-Tongue) have long, somewhat windy leaves that point upwards. Sansevieria’s leaves are primarily green, with yellow margins on certain kinds. And, because of their capacity to endure neglect, these plants make great starting plants.

Snake plants prefer low – to – medium indirect light, so they’re good for the inside. Even though they can endure low light, brilliant light brings out the actual color of their leaves. To avoid sun damage, they must be sheltered from direct sunlight.

See also: How To Properly Repot Overgrown Succulents Like A Pro (A quick guide).

Snake plants are well-known for purifying the air in your house by eliminating formaldehyde and benzene pollutants, making them a popular plant. Snake plants, like other succulents, do not like being overwatered or sitting in water. Snake plants may live for decades and grow up to 5 feet tall if given the right growth conditions.

Genus name Dracaena trifasciata (also know as Sansevieria trifasciata)
Common name– Viper’s bowstring hemp
– Snake Plant
– St. George’s sword
Family Asparagaceae
Plant type – Perennial
– Evergreen
Mature Snake Plant Size 6 to 96 inches (15.24 to 243.84 cm) tall
Soil requirement Snake plants thrive in rich, sandy, and well-drained soil
Watering requirement Water only once a month in winter and twice a month in summer.
Light requirementsSnake plants grow well in shade and partial sun exposure
TemperatureBetween in temperature between 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit
Flower ColorWhite
Bloom time Even though it rarely blooms, snake plant boom time is spring.
USDA Hardiness Zone9 – 11
Region of Origin Tropical Regions of West Africa
Warming Snake plants are known to be toxic to cats and dogs (1)
Table Displays Snake Plant (Sanseveria Trifasciata) Plants Characteristics – plantsheaven.com
9 Best Indoor Succulents Low Light That Thrive In Dark Room – plantsheaven.com

9- Recurvata Beaucarnea 

Recurvata Beaucarnea is also called Ponytail palm trees. These plants, despite their name and look, are succulents from the Agave family, not palm trees.

The bulbous trunk, which itself is utilized to retain water, and the long and thin, hair-like leaves that sprout from the tip of the stem like a ponytail, providing it the impression of a ponytailed palm tree, are the most striking features of this plant.

See also: 5 Must-Know To Make an Aeonium Branch Out.

They require quick-draining soil, and also, because of those who retain moisture in their trunks, it is critical to allow them to dry out between watering and avoid allowing them to sit in water hence can be a choice for the Best Indoor Succulents Low Light.

Genus name Beaucarnea recurvata
Common name– Elephant’s foot
– Ponytail palm, 
Plant type – Tree
– Broadleaf evergreen shrub
Mature Size– 72 to 96 inches (182.88 to 243.84 cm) tall
– 36 to 60 inches (91.44 to 152.4 cm) spread
– They grow up to 360 inches (914.4 cm) tall when grown outdoors
Watering requirements– Water ponytail palms during their growing season every seven to 14 days, but avoid overwatering them.
– Reduce watering to once a month during the winter season.
Soil requirement It prefers rich, sandy, and well-draining soil
Sun exposurePonytail palm prefers full sun
Temperature– Ponytail palms prefer temperatures above 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
– However, they will also survive lower than 50 degrees Fahrenheit in a short period.
pH6.5 to 7.5
Flower ColorCreamy white
Bloom time Seasonal bloomer
USDA Hardiness Zone10 to 11
Region of OriginSemi-desert regions of Central America
Table Displays Recurvata Beaucarnea Plants Characteristics – plantsheaven.com
9 Best Indoor Succulents Low Light That Thrive In Dark Room – plantsheaven.com

Wrapping Up

Succulents are not only easy plants to grow, but also they provide tremendous benefits. Additionally, succulents are one of the most versatile plants and also offer many benefits.

You can add any of these nine best indoor succulents low light to your house, offices, or garden to reap all the benefits of growing succulents.

Altiné

Hello friends, I am Altiné. I am SO excited you are here! I am the guy behind Plantsheaven.com. Plants Heaven is a blog that shares information about preparing, creating, and maintaining gardens in and out of your home, regardless of where you live. My goal is to help you learn to love gardening and reap the benefits that come with it. I am still learning; therefore, the information I share on this site may not always be “expert” advice or information. But, I do my VERY best to make sure the information shared on this blog is both accurate and helpful.

Recent Posts

Providing appropriate light for succulents can be difficult, especially when you live in a region where natural light is scarce. The majority of succulents enjoy bright, indirect light. Succulents are incredibly flexible, and some varieties may even flourish in the shadow. Here’s a list of the best indoor succulents low light