Living in Tennessee means dealing with humid summers and homes that often have a few rooms tucked away from natural light. Maybe it’s a basement, a hallway, or a bathroom without a single window.
Just because a space lacks sunlight doesn’t mean it has to feel lifeless—plenty of plants can thrive in those dim corners and bring a bit of green indoors.
1. Snake Plant
Few plants handle neglect and darkness quite like this one. It tolerates low light better than most houseplants and doesn’t mind if you forget to water it for a week or two.
Water sparingly—once every two to three weeks is usually enough, especially in Tennessee’s humid climate. Overwatering is the main killer, so let the soil dry out completely between drinks.
I keep one in my hallway closet, and it’s been sitting there happily for months with only occasional artificial light from the overhead bulb.
2. Pothos
This trailing beauty adapts to almost any lighting condition, making it a favorite for dim spaces. Its vines can grow surprisingly long, adding a soft, cascading effect to shelves or counters.
Keep the soil lightly moist but not soggy. In Tennessee’s summer humidity, you might find it needs less frequent watering than you’d expect.
Mine has been thriving in a corner bathroom for over a year now, with zero natural light and only the occasional fluorescent glow. It’s proven to be practically indestructible.
3. ZZ Plant
Glossy, waxy leaves give this plant a polished look that feels almost fake—but it’s very much alive and incredibly forgiving. Low light won’t faze it one bit.
Water only when the soil is bone dry, which could be every three weeks or longer. Its rhizomes store water, so it’s built to handle drought.
I once left mine in a basement storage room for a month and came back to find it looking just as healthy as when I left it. That’s the kind of resilience every beginner needs.
4. Cast Iron Plant
True to its name, this plant is tough as nails. It can handle deep shade, temperature swings, and even a bit of neglect without complaint.
Water moderately, allowing the top couple inches of soil to dry out before watering again. Tennessee’s indoor humidity usually keeps it content without extra fussing.
A friend of mine has one in her windowless laundry room, and it’s been there for years without missing a beat. It’s the kind of plant that just quietly does its job.
5. Dracaena
With its tall, architectural form and striped foliage, this plant adds height and structure to any room. It doesn’t need much light to stay healthy and can tolerate artificial lighting just fine.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Be careful not to overdo it—dracaenas prefer slightly dry conditions over soggy roots.
I’ve had one in my office for a couple of years now, tucked in a corner with no windows. It grows slowly but steadily, and never asks for much attention.
6. Philodendron
Heart-shaped leaves and a laid-back attitude make this plant a classic choice for beginners. It handles low light gracefully and can even survive in rooms lit only by lamps.
Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. In Tennessee’s muggy summers, you might notice it needs less water than during cooler months.
I’ve got one hanging in my guest bathroom, and it’s thrived despite never seeing a ray of sunlight. It’s one of those plants that just keeps on going.
7. Lucky Bamboo
Despite its name, this isn’t actually bamboo—but it sure looks like it. It grows happily in water or soil and tolerates low light surprisingly well.
If growing in water, change it weekly to keep things fresh. If in soil, water when the top layer feels dry.
I keep a small arrangement on my desk in a room with no windows, and it’s been growing steadily for months. It’s become a little conversation starter whenever someone stops by.
8. Parlor Palm
This petite palm brings a tropical vibe without needing bright light. It’s one of the few palms that actually prefers shade, making it perfect for dim indoor spaces.
Water regularly to keep the soil lightly moist, but don’t let it sit in standing water. Tennessee’s natural humidity helps it stay happy without needing a humidifier.
Mine sits in a corner of my bedroom with only a bedside lamp for light, and it’s been doing just fine. It adds a soft, feathery texture that feels calming.
9. Chinese Evergreen
Beautifully patterned leaves make this plant stand out, even in the dimmest corners. It’s incredibly adaptable and can handle low light, dry air, and inconsistent watering.
Water when the top inch of soil is dry. It prefers slightly humid conditions, which Tennessee summers naturally provide.
I picked one up for my entryway, which gets almost no natural light, and it’s been thriving for over a year. The silver and green patterns still look vibrant despite the darkness.
10. Prayer Plant
Named for the way its leaves fold up at night, this plant is as fascinating as it is beautiful. It does well in low light and loves the kind of humidity Tennessee naturally offers.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soaked. Mist occasionally if your indoor air feels dry, though that’s rarely an issue here.
I’ve watched mine fold its leaves every evening like clockwork, even in my windowless bathroom. It’s become a little nightly ritual I look forward to.
11. Peperomia
Compact and cheerful, this little plant is perfect for tight spaces. It doesn’t need much light and stays small, making it ideal for desks, shelves, or countertops.
Water sparingly—peperomias are sensitive to overwatering. Let the soil dry out between waterings, especially during Tennessee’s humid months.
I keep one on my kitchen counter in a spot that never gets direct light, and it’s been perfectly content. It’s become my go-to recommendation for anyone starting out with houseplants.
12. Aglaonema
Bold patterns and a forgiving nature make this plant a winner for low-light rooms. It comes in a variety of colors, from deep greens to pinks and reds, all of which hold up well in shade.
Water when the top layer of soil feels dry. It’s fairly drought-tolerant, so you don’t need to be overly attentive.
I’ve got one in my home office with no windows, and it’s been growing steadily for months. The colorful leaves really brighten up the space, even without sunlight streaming in.