Easy, reliable plants that thrive during gray Chicagoland winters
Winter in the Chicago suburbs often means short days, cloud cover, and windows that don’t deliver much sunshine. The good news? You don’t have to give up on greenery until spring. Many houseplants actually prefer lower light and will look great all winter long with minimal fuss.
Here are our favorite low-light champions—perfect for homes, offices, and apartments during even the grayest Chicagoland months.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Why we love it: Nearly indestructible
Snake plants tolerate low light, dry indoor air, and occasional missed waterings. Their upright leaves add structure and style to any room.
Winter care tip: Let the soil dry completely between waterings. Less light = less water needed.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Why we love it: Shiny leaves, slow growth, low effort
ZZ plants thrive in low light and are ideal for darker corners or north-facing rooms.
Winter care tip: Water sparingly—about once every 3–4 weeks in winter.
PothosWhy we love it: Trailing, versatile, forgiving
Pothos adapts easily to low light and adds softness to shelves, bookcases, and hanging baskets.
Winter care tip: Slower growth is normal—hold back on fertilizer until spring.
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra)
Why we love it: Tough as its name
This classic plant tolerates low light, fluctuating temperatures, and dry winter air better than most.
Winter care tip: Dust leaves occasionally to help maximize light absorption.
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Why we love it: Colorful foliage without bright light
Aglaonemas come in beautiful patterns of green, silver, and pink—and they perform well in medium to low light.
Winter care tip: Keep away from cold drafts near doors or windows.
Peace Lily
Why we love it: Elegant and expressive
Peace lilies tolerate low light and let you know when they need water by gently drooping.
Winter care tip: Keep soil slightly moist and increase humidity if possible.
Low-Light Plant Care Tips for Winter
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Rotate plants every few weeks for even growth
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Clean leaves so plants can absorb what little light is available
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Skip fertilizer until days lengthen
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Watch watering carefully—overwatering is the #1 winter mistake
Bring Home a Little Green This Winter
Just because winter in Chicagoland is long doesn’t mean your home has to feel dull. Low-light houseplants are an easy way to add life, color, and warmth—no grow lights required.
Stop by the greenhouse to browse our selection of houseplants. Winter may be gray outside, but it can stay green inside.