Plants create their own food through photosynthesis, using sunlight or artificial light as an energy source. While all plants need light to survive, some species require more than others. Understanding a plant’s specific lighting needs will help keep it healthy and improve its long-term survival.

Indoor plant lighting generally falls into three main categories:

Bright light: Direct sunlight for over 5 hours a day. Plants in this category do best with at least 5–6 hours of strong light, typically from west- or south-facing windows within 6 feet of the glass.

Medium light: Direct sun for under 5 hours daily, often from east- or southeast-facing windows, up to 10–15 feet away.

Low light: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight, usually from north-facing windows or shaded areas.

If your space doesn’t meet a plant’s light requirements, you can use supplemental grow lights. When in doubt about whether a plant prefers direct or indirect light, opt for bright, indirect light—especially for young leaves, which may be sensitive to intense sunlight.

In our listings, we’ve included symbols to indicate plant preferences:
♡ Non-toxic to pets or humans
☼ Can tolerate direct sunlight (if not marked, indirect light is best)

Some plants appear in more than one lighting category, which shows their adaptability. These versatile types are generally easier to care for and great for beginners.