Light Requirements
Light Requirements
Find plants that will thrive in your home's specific lighting conditions, from low light corners to sunny windowsills.
Low Light
Plants that can thrive in areas with minimal natural light, such as north-facing windows or interior spaces away from windows.
Medium Light
Plants that prefer moderate light levels, such as east-facing windows or a few feet away from bright windows.
Bright Indirect Light
Plants that thrive in bright areas without direct sun exposure, such as near south or west-facing windows with a sheer curtain.
Direct Sunlight
Plants that need several hours of direct sun exposure daily, typically found in unobstructed south or west-facing windows.
Understanding Light Requirements
Light is one of the most critical factors in houseplant success. Understanding your home's light conditions and matching them to your plants' needs is essential for healthy growth.
How to Assess Your Light Levels:
- The Hand Shadow Test - Hold your hand about 12 inches from a wall or surface. A sharp, defined shadow indicates bright light; a fuzzy, faint shadow suggests medium light; barely visible or no shadow means low light.
- Cardinal Directions:
- North-facing windows: Low light
- East-facing windows: Medium light with gentle morning sun
- South-facing windows: Bright light with direct sun (brightest in Northern Hemisphere)
- West-facing windows: Bright light with intense afternoon sun
- Distance from Windows - Light intensity decreases dramatically with distance. A plant that needs bright light should be within 2-3 feet of a suitable window.
Browse our light requirement categories to find plants that will thrive in your specific lighting conditions.