Plants can turn a boring space in a room into one that is thriving with life. However, this can be challenging if you only have a north-facing window.
It’s important to remember that not all plants can thrive in low-light room conditions where there is no direct sunlight. Therefore, your choice of plant is essential.
Luckily for you, there are plenty of beautiful plant options for your north-facing window – bringing out the beauty of your home.
With this in mind, this guide has outlined the best plants for north-facing windows. You may even be surprised to see some of your favorite plants on this list!
Whether you’re looking for something suitable for a beginner or an ornate tropical plant with tons of colors, there is sure to be something to brighten up your room!
Let’s get started.
Why Do Plants Need Light?
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants derive their energy for reproduction and growth.
Here, the chlorophyll (these are the green cells in the plant’s leaves) convert carbon dioxide, water, and, of course, sunlight into glucose which is used as energy by the plant.
Depending on the environment in which the plant has adapted will determine the amount of light the plant needs to produce enough energy to stay healthy, grow, and reproduce.
Leaves from plants that require low light tend to contain more chlorophyll per ounce as opposed to plants adapted to direct sunlight.
Thanks to this additional chlorophyll, your plant is able to produce all the energy it requires when in low-light conditions.
Considerations When Growing Plants In North-Facing Windows
Light Conditions
North-facing windows receive the least amount of direct sunlight. Therefore, any plant placed here will receive indirect and low light.
Low light means that your plant will spend less time in light as opposed to a plant that requires medium to high light.
While indirect light means that the sun’s rays never shine directly onto the plant itself.
Environmental Considerations
If you’re looking to palace your plant in the window, you should always keep in mind the air movement and temperature of that area.
For instance, windows – especially ones with indirect sunlight – tend to be colder for plants.
Plus, windows are more prone to drafts which aren’t ideal for plants that prefer warmer temperatures and moderate to high humidity.
Care Requirements
While all plants are different, low-light plants tend to grow much slower than full-sun plants. Plus, they require fewer nutrients and less water, too.
Thus, sometimes, low-light plants can be more prone to over-feeding and over-watering – leading to burnt root systems or root rot if you’re not careful.
Low-Light Plants For North-Facing Windows
Snake Plant
The snake plant (Dracaena Trifasciata) is also called by another name: mother-in-law’s tongue. This plant thrives in indirect sunlight and can even tolerate low-light conditions, too.
That said, you should keep in mind that the leaves’ variegated pattern can potentially fade in low-light conditions.
For this easy-to-grow plant, a north-face window makes for the ideal home. Like all of the other plants mentioned on this list, it can handle neglect well.
However, with proper care and maintenance, your snake plant can grow beautiful foliage.
Golden Pothos
People often mistake the golden pothos (Epipremnum Aureum) for philodendrons. Both plants are known for their easy care and maintenance; however, the pothos feature dark, green leaves with white or yellow patterns.
Moreover, the golden pothos is sometimes referred to as the “devil’s ivy” due to how hard the plant is to kill.
It is the ideal houseplant due to its low maintenance and ability to thrive in most conditions.
ZZ Plant
The ZZ plant (otherwise known as Zamioculcas Zamiifolia) originates from Eastern Africa. Its ovate leaves feature a glossy and attractive shade of green, making it the perfect houseplant.
In addition to this, they are said to symbolize steady growth and good fortune – this makes it an ideal plant for office feng shui.
Cast Iron Plant
Another low-maintenance plant is the cast iron plant (otherwise known as Aspidistra Elatior) which can tolerate almost all conditions – including under watering, neglect, and low light.
These plants are typically grown as ground cover for shady outdoor areas in warmer climates. However, when planted indoors, they are ideal for north-facing windows or other low-light areas.
Peace Lily
When it comes to flowering plants that don’t require much maintenance, look no further than the peace lily (Spathiphyllum Wallisii).
The plants are known for their striking white blooms and attractive foliage.
As opposed to some other plants, peace lilies tend to grow much slower. In fact, young plants may only produce one bloom at a time.
However, luckily, the plant will flower throughout the year. Generally speaking, peace lilies are easy to care for and will let you know when they need water by dramatically drooping.
Bird’s Nest Fern
The bird’s nest fern (Asplenium Nidus) features an impressive rosette of lance-shaped fronds.
These plants are epiphytic, meaning that they grow using their roots attached to the side of trees as opposed to in the soil.
These fern-type plants are native to rainforests in Africa, Asia, and Australia.
Spider Plant
If you’re looking for a plant ideal for beginners, then look no further than the spider plant. It is both resilient and easy to grow!
Plus, it is also one of the best plants you can purchase for your north-face window. The plant requires indirect, bright sunlight as opposed to direct sunlight.
The leaves can turn yellow if the plant is provided with too much or too little sunlight. Therefore, your north-facing window is the perfect home for this plant.
To keep their soil moist, you can display these hardy plants in hanging baskets.
Moth Orchid
Otherwise known as phalaenopsis orchids, these gorgeous plants bloom in a variety of colors. They thrive in conditions where the light is bright yet indirect – making them the perfect north-facing window plant!
Plus, they make for one of the most stunning plants, too, thanks to their long-lasting and delicate blooms. You’ll want to place these indoor plants all around your home!
The best part? These plants thrive in low-light conditions that other plants may struggle in.
Umbrella Tree
The umbrella tree plants (otherwise known as Schefflera Actinophylla) are a genus of tropical, flowering plants.
It gets its name from its glossy, bright green leaves that fan out to resemble the shape of an umbrella.
Plus, it is one of the most popular indoor plants to keep in your north-facing window.
Heart-Leaf Philodendron
The heart-leaf philodendron (Philodendron Scandens Oxycardium) thrives in conditions that are bright with indirect light – like a north-facing window!
In the winter months specifically, it is able to tolerate most low-light conditions when compared to other varieties of philodendron.
When exposed to direct sunlight, the leaves of these plants will turn yellow. However, too little sunlight can be a problem, too.
If you notice your heart-leaf philodendron becoming leggy in your north-facing window, then you may need to use fluorescent lights to supplement the plant.
Additionally, you can place it outdoors in a shaded area during the summer months. Then, in the winter and fall, replace it in your north-facing window.
These plants are extremely responsive and will quickly let you know if they are struggling. That said, they typically thrive in north-facing windows.
Chinese Evergreen
The Chinese evergreen plant (Aglaonema Modestum) features flat, wide leaves that are painted with a range of different patterns and shades.
There are a ton of different patterns on these plants, including large blotches, tiny speckles, and a mixture of the two.
While these plants can survive in low-light conditions, they still need some indirect light to remain happy and healthy.
The key when it comes to this plant is that the darker the leaves, the better it will thrive in shady conditions. When matured, they even produce tiny flowers!
Rex Begonia
You may have already seen the impressive flowers from a begonia. However, the rex begonia is known for its showy foliage as opposed to its blossoms.
The leaves of a rex begonia typically grow in a variety of colors, including deep red, green, and purple, and feature silvery and intricate markings.
Hacksaw Fern
Another great north-facing plant is the hacksaw fern (Doodia). It can grow in partial or in full-shade areas outdoors.
When used as an indoor plant, it appreciates cool and shady environments with just enough moisture.
Final Thoughts
Plants have the ability to completely transform a room – bringing tons of life and energy into an otherwise dull room.
It is true, plants simply make you feel better. So, the more the merrier! However, you’ll want to make sure the plants you purchase are appropriate for your window conditions.
If you have a north-facing window, you’ll want plants that can thrive in these conditions.
Hopefully, this guide has provided you with some inspiration for some amazing north-facing window plants.
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