Low-Light Plants for a Windowless Basement

A basement with no windows cannot support plants on natural light alone. However, several species survive under fluorescent lights (not incandescent) placed within 4 feet, running 6–8 hours daily.

Best Low-Light Choices

• ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
• Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
• Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
• Dracaena species
• Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
• Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

These plants grow slowly, need little water, no fertilizer, and no repotting. Over-caring kills them. A single plant won't significantly improve air quality, but it can teach a child responsibility.