5 Succulents That Don’t Need Lots of Sunlight

There’s a notion that all succulents need sunlight all the time, when in fact, there are many varieties that thrive more in the shade, so much so that constant exposure to UV rays can wilt them. This is great, especially if you’ve been wanting to start your little succulent garden but don't have enough outdoor space for them, as these plants can easily grow indoors.

Read more: Pink Plants You Can Buy Online for Your Indoor Garden

Do note, however, that while these species love low-light environments, they still need sunlight supplied through a bit of protective shade, or at the very least, only during certain hours of the day.

Whether you’re a first-time plant parent looking for starter greens, or a long-time green thumb interested in creating an indoor garden, these succulents are great for your home:

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is perfect for beginners since this plant is quite hardy. Similar to most succulents, you’ll need to make sure to dry its soil first prior to watering. Proper drainage is important to avoid rot and wilting. Keep in it a nice, warm room and make sure it’s not under direct sunlight.

Snake Plant

Also known as “Mother-in-Law’s Tongue,” this plant can live for long periods without watering. It doesn’t thrive on thick loam, so opt for a free-draining soil mix, or one that’s more pebbly than most. Remember—avoid getting their leaves wet when watering them! If they do get splashed, wipe the water off and makes sure that it doesn’t collect at the bottom of the shoots.

Zebra Plant

Zebra or pearl plants love low-light environment, and as such, you have to be careful about watering them since dim places can keep its soil mix damp, which isn’t good.

Hoya Plant

The hoya plant has several names—shooting star, wax plant, wax flower—and it’s a bit fleshier than the snake or the zebra plant. It’s good for trellises or even just on top of your shelf as its vines and blossoms make for welcome accents to your home.

Gasteria

Gasterias are distant relatives of aloes, and they produce red or pinkish blossoms, depending on the variety. They thrive in indirect light, so make sure to place your hawthoria near a window ledge that catches either morning or afternoon sun.

Sources: Green Vibrant, The Spruce