15 Houseplants for North Facing Windows

Plants in north-facing window don’t receive direct sunlight and in colder months these windows provide low-light with constant shaded spot.

For tropical plants that needs consistent sunlight may shudder at this.

Thankfully, there are bunch of indoor plants that can does well in low-lightening conditions.

Though north-facing windows little to no direct sunlight, these houseplants thrive and evolve in shaded spots.

With minimal maintenance, these plants are hardy and tolerant of neglect, making them perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners.

In this write-up, we shall explore 15 of the best houseplants for north-facing windows, detailing their care needs, characteristics, and why they’re suited to low-light settings.

How Much Light Does a North-Facing Window Get?

Light one of the essential requirements for plant growth. Without which the plant couldn’t carry out its food making process.

It is important to understand the amount of light your north-facing windows gets. So, you can choose plants according to its light requirements.

North-facing windows receive consistent indirect light without direct sunlight, creating a shaded spot.

It is ideal for plants that prefer partial shade or low light over intense sun rays.

Before starting it is essential to assess your space to consider window size, obstructions (like trees or buildings), and room temperature, as these factors influence light and humidity levels.

15 Houseplants for North-Facing Windows

Most indoor plants prefer humid and warmer conditions to grow, which is tough to replicate in north-facing space. However, avoid too much misting, as it may attract fungal growth due to low sunlight.

Snake plant is one among the popular indoor plants that is known to grow in low-light. Let’s start with that.

1. Snake Plant

Known as mother-in-law’s tongue, snake plants feature long, upright, sword-like leaves in shades of green, variegated with silver, yellow, or white. They’re architectural and striking.

Snake plants are incredibly hardy, tolerating low light and irregular watering. They’re perfect for north-facing windows where light is minimal.

Plant Care: Water sparingly—allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Use well-draining soil. They thrive in average room temperatures (60-75°F) and don’t need high humidity.

Rarely blooms indoors, but when it does, it produces delicate, fragrant white flowers.

2. ZZ Plant

With glossy, dark green, oval leaves on upright stems, the ZZ plant resembles a succulent but is far more shade-tolerant.

Its waxy leaves store water, making it drought-tolerant and ideal for low-light conditions where growth is slow.

Plant Care: Water only when the soil is dry (every 2-3 weeks). It prefers dry conditions and tolerates average humidity. Keep away from pets—its toxic if ingested.

A slow grower, it’s perfect for small spaces and requires minimal attention.

Also Read: 11 Best Indoor plants that Absorb CO2 Most Effectively

3. Peace Lily

Featuring glossy, dark green leaves and elegant white, hood-like flowers (spathes), peace lilies add a touch of sophistication.

They flourish in low to moderate indirect light and signal when they need water by drooping dramatically.

Plant Care: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Prefers warm, humid conditions (mist occasionally). Avoid direct sun, which burns leaves.

Known for air-purifying qualities, it’s a functional and beautiful choice.

4. Pothos

Often called Devil’s Ivy, pothos boasts heart-shaped, waxy leaves in green, variegated with yellow or white, that trail beautifully.

It thrives in low light and adapts to various conditions, making it a staple for north-facing windows.

Plant Care: Water when the top inch of soil dries out. It tolerates average humidity and can grow in water alone for propagation.

Easy to propagate—cuttings root quickly, perfect for sharing with friends.

5. Heart-Leaf Philodendron

This vining plant has smooth, heart-shaped, dark green leaves that cascade elegantly from pots or climb with support.

It loves low to medium light and is forgiving of irregular care, ideal for shaded windows.

Plant Care: Water when the soil feels dry to the touch; it wilts to signal thirst. Prefers moderate humidity but adapts well.

Mistaken for pothos, it’s slightly more delicate but equally low-maintenance.

6. Cast Iron Plant

True to its name, this plant is tough, with long, arching, dark green leaves that emerge directly from the soil.

It thrives in deep shade and tolerates neglect, making it a champion for north-facing spaces.

Plant Care: Water when the top two-thirds of soil dry out. It prefers well-draining soil and average temperatures.

Slow-growing, it’s a long-term investment that rarely needs repotting.

Check this: 23 Best Perennials that Grow in Shade

7. Spider Plant

With long, slender, arching leaves—often green with white or yellow stripes—spider plants produce “pups” for easy propagation.

They adapt to low light, though variegation may fade slightly without brighter conditions.

Plant Care: Keep soil lightly moist; water when the top inch dries. Average humidity suffices.

Non-toxic and pet-friendly, it’s a great family-friendly option.

8. Chinese Evergreen

Known for its variegated leaves in green, silver, pink, or red, this upright plant adds color to dim spaces.

It thrives in low light and tolerates a range of conditions, perfect for northern exposure.

Plant Care: Water when the soil dries slightly; avoid overwatering. Prefers warm, humid environments but adapts to average conditions.

Its vibrant foliage brightens up even the darkest corners.

9. Parlour Palm

A slow-growing palm with feathery, arching fronds, it brings a tropical vibe indoors.

It prefers indirect light and grows well in the consistent shade of north-facing windows.

Plant Care: Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. It likes moderate humidity and average temperatures.

Adds height and texture without overwhelming small spaces.

10. Maidenhair Fern

Delicate, feathery fronds on wiry black stems give this fern a soft, airy look.

It loves indirect light and thrives in humid, shaded spots like north-facing bathrooms or kitchens.

Plant Care: Keep soil consistently moist and mist regularly. Avoid dry air or direct sun.

Its lush texture contrasts beautifully with broader-leafed plants.

11. English Ivy

A classic trailing plant with lobed, glossy green or variegated leaves, it’s perfect for hanging baskets.

It grows well in low to moderate light and adds a cascading effect to windowsills.

Plant Care: Water when the soil dries slightly; it prefers cool temperatures and moderate humidity. Toxic to pets, so keep out of reach.

Can be trained to climb or trail, offering versatility in styling.

12. Nerve Plant

Small, oval leaves with striking veins in pink, red, or white make this plant a standout.

It prefers low light and high humidity, thriving in north-facing conditions.

Plant Care: Keep soil moist and mist frequently. It wilts when thirsty but bounces back quickly.

Its compact size fits perfectly on narrow windowsills.

13. Rex Begonia

Grown for its stunning foliage—green, red, or purple with silvery patterns—rather than flowers.

It loves indirect light and struggles in direct sun, making it ideal for north-facing windows.

Plant Care: Water when the top inch dries; avoid soggy soil. Prefers high humidity.

Adds a pop of color without needing bright light.

14. Moth Orchid

Elegant orchids with long-lasting blooms in various colors, paired with broad green leaves.

They bloom in low to moderate indirect light, avoiding the harsh sun that burns their leaves.

Plant Care: Water weekly, letting roots dry slightly between waterings. Use orchid bark and maintain moderate humidity.

A rare flowering option for low-light spaces, offering months of beauty.

15. Prayer Plant

Known for its oval leaves with colorful veins, it folds up at night like praying hands.

It thrives in low light and humid conditions, perfect for north-facing rooms.

Plant Care: Keep soil moist and mist regularly. Avoid direct sun, which fades its patterns.

Its unique leaf movement adds a dynamic element to your collection.

Important Tips for Success with North-Facing Window Plants

• To maximize the light exposure, place the plant close to the window.
• Low-light plants grow slowly and need less water—overwatering is a common mistake. Check the growing medium is dry before watering.
• Many of these plants prefer moderate to high humidity. Use a pebble tray or misting to boost moisture in dry indoor air.
• Rotate pots occasionally for even growth, as plants may lean toward the light source.
• If needed, consider a grow light to enhance conditions, especially in winter.

Conclusion

You don’t have to skip that north-facing window anymore. There are bunch of choices from the resilient snake plant to the delicate maidenhair fern that have proven to thrive in low.

Whether you’re drawn to trailing vines like pothos, upright foliage like the ZZ plant, or flowering beauties like the peace lily, there’s a perfect match for your space.

With minimal care and the right placement, these plants will transform your north-facing rooms into vibrant, green sanctuaries—proving that even the shadiest corners can bloom with life.