Creating a thriving indoor garden starts with understanding your lighting conditions. One of the most overlooked but important lighting situations is the north-facing window. These windows receive the least direct sunlight throughout the day, offering soft, consistent, indirect light. While this may seem like a limitation, it’s actually ideal for many shade-loving plants. In this guide, we’ll explore the best north facing window plants, tips to keep them healthy, and how to make the most of this low-light environment.
What Is a North Facing Window?
A north-facing window is one that faces north and receives the most consistent but minimal light throughout the day. In the Northern Hemisphere, this type of window never gets direct sunlight, especially in winter, making it perfect for plants that prefer low light or indirect light.
Why Choose Plants for a North Facing Window?
H3: Low-Light Friendly Environment
The biggest advantage of a north-facing window is the low light. While many plants crave sunlight, others naturally grow under canopies or in shady forest floors and thrive in this soft, filtered lighting.
H3: Reduced Risk of Leaf Burn
Since the sun never shines directly through a north-facing window, you’ll rarely encounter leaf scorching. This makes it safer for delicate foliage and tropical houseplants.
Top 10 North Facing Window Plants
Here are the best plants to grow in a north-facing window. These species not only tolerate low light but actually prefer it.
H3: 1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
The Snake Plant is a champion in low-light situations. Its upright, sword-like leaves thrive in indirect light, and it needs minimal watering. This plant is also an excellent air purifier.
Why it’s perfect: It tolerates neglect and low light like a pro. A top pick for beginners placing it near a north-facing window.
H3: 2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
If you’re looking for a hardy plant that thrives on minimal care, the ZZ Plant is ideal. It enjoys indirect light and can even survive in office settings with only fluorescent lights.
North facing window bonus: The ZZ plant’s waxy, dark green leaves stay shiny and healthy even without direct sun.
H3: 3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
This trailing vine is loved for its heart-shaped leaves and low maintenance. Pothos can tolerate a variety of lighting conditions but excels in low to medium light.
Great for north-facing spots: It grows steadily, adds a lush look to shelves or hanging baskets, and purifies indoor air.
H3: 4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The Peace Lily brings elegance with its dark leaves and white blooms. It’s sensitive to bright, direct sunlight, making it ideal for north facing window plants placement.
Extra tip: Mist the leaves occasionally to mimic its native humid rainforest environment.
H3: 5. Philodendron
These tropical favorites adapt well to low light. The heartleaf philodendron in particular flourishes without direct sun.
North-facing window compatible: It won’t produce sunburn on leaves and requires only weekly watering.
H3: 6. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Known for its striking patterned foliage, the Chinese Evergreen does extremely well in low-light rooms. It’s one of the most tolerant houseplants available.
Perfect for dim rooms: Its vibrant leaves will stay colorful even in less intense light, making it a star among north facing window plants.
H3: 7. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
True to its name, the Cast Iron Plant is practically indestructible. It’s slow-growing but excellent for dark corners and shaded windows.
Why it works: This plant thrives in almost any condition and loves the indirect light of a north-facing window.
H3: 8. Maidenhair Fern
With delicate fronds and a soft, feathery look, Maidenhair Ferns add texture to any room. These ferns dislike direct sunlight and prefer moist, low-light environments.
Placement tip: Ensure consistent humidity and place them a bit away from the window to avoid temperature fluctuations.
H3: 9. Calathea
Known for its decorative leaves that curl at night, Calatheas are sensitive to light and prefer shaded environments.
Good match: They need filtered light and humidity, making them excellent north facing window plants if you add a humidifier nearby.
H3: 10. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
This classic indoor plant is low maintenance and does well in indirect light. Spider plants can grow in hanging baskets or tabletop planters.
North window benefits: Its long arching leaves stay healthy in low light and it’s safe for pets.
Tips for Growing North Facing Window Plants Successfully
H3: Use Light-Reflecting Surfaces
Enhance light availability by placing mirrors, white walls, or shiny surfaces near your plants. This can help bounce the available light around.
H3: Don’t Overwater
Because many north facing window plants grow slower due to lower light, they don’t need as much water. Check soil moisture before each watering to avoid root rot.
H3: Rotate Regularly
Rotate your plants every few weeks to ensure even growth, especially for foliage plants that may lean toward the light.
H3: Consider Supplemental Lighting
If your north-facing window gets too dark (especially during winter), consider adding a grow light for a few hours a day to maintain plant health.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
H3: Choosing Sun-Loving Plants
Succulents, cacti, or high-light herbs like basil are unlikely to thrive in north-facing window conditions. Stick to shade-tolerant species.
H3: Ignoring Temperature Fluctuations
In winter, north-facing windows can become chilly. Protect sensitive plants from cold drafts by moving them slightly away from the window or using insulating curtains at night.
Best Pots and Soil for North Facing Window Plants
H3: Choose Breathable Pots
Clay or terracotta pots are ideal because they allow excess moisture to evaporate, reducing the risk of overwatering.
H3: Use Well-Draining Soil
Even in low light, soggy soil can spell trouble. Use a well-draining mix suited for indoor plants. Adding perlite or orchid bark can improve aeration.
Decorative Ideas for North Facing Window Plants
H3: Create a Vertical Garden
Install hanging planters or wall-mounted plant holders near your north-facing window to maximize vertical space.
H3: Use Plant Stands
Layer plants at different heights using plant stands to create visual interest and ensure each plant gets some light.
H3: Combine with Artificial Decor
Pair your north facing window plants with wooden trays, macramé hangers, or ceramic pots for a chic, natural look that brightens your space even in low light.
Conclusion
Choosing the right north facing window plants can transform your indoor space into a peaceful, green sanctuary—even without direct sunlight. From the indestructible snake plant to the elegant peace lily, there’s a perfect plant for every type of indoor gardener. By understanding your light conditions and selecting plants that love the shade, you’ll enjoy healthy, beautiful greenery all year long.
Remember to rotate, avoid overwatering, and enhance lighting with mirrors or grow lights as needed. Whether you’re a beginner or a plant enthusiast, north-facing windows offer a world of green possibilities.