When we think about succulents, the images of vast desert landscapes often come to mind.

That also means lots and lots of sunlight.

However, succulents are a very diverse group of plants, not exclusively connected to deserts. It would surprise you where succulents can live. For example, epiphytic succulents such as the Christmas cactus live on branches of large trees. Can you guess what type of conditions does an epiphytic plant face?

Among other things, there’s the lack of light brought on by a usually massive canopy above an epiphytic plant. Yes, in the diverse world of succulents there are those who are surprisingly tolerant of low light conditions. And in their beauty and attractiveness, they do not fall behind their sun-loving cousins.

But first, let’s point out that “low light” doesn’t mean “no light”. All plants need light in order to perform photosynthesis by which they feed themselves. For a plant, low light means not being directly exposed to sunlight. For example, a spot in the opposing corner of an otherwise well-lit room. If you are facing north, even a spot close to the window can count as a low light spot.

In a room with no windows (e.g. a bathroom), you will have to provide a grow light, even for a plant tolerant of low light conditions.

Now that we got that out of the way, let’s explore the weird and wonderful realm of low light succulents.

1. ALOE VERA

Aloe vera is possibly one of the easiest indoor plants to care for. They don’t require much light or much water, and because of that, they’re definitely a favorite of many. Plus, it’s always good to have an aloe plant around in case of a sunburn or to treat stomach or skin conditions.

2. GASTERIA

These plants have long, thick and grooved leaves and tolerate minimal light conditions. They prefer to grow in bright and hot places especially in spots with indirect light and require little water and fertilizer. If planted in the soil, these plants prefer sandy and well-drained areas but they also thrive well in pots and popular as indoor plants or houseplants.

3. HAWORTHIA

Also native to South Africa, the haworthia succulent comprises of many different dwarf succulents who thrive in low light. They closely resemble aloe vera, and are often mistaken as much. This species can look wildly different, from having bright thick leaves, to softer, more translucent leaves.

4. ECHEVERIAS

These visually stunning succulents hail from South America, and they’re well loved for their rosettes and exquisite features. The rosettes can vary in shape, size, and color, and the plant itself can be very small or can grow up to 8 inches wide. The leaves can also wildly vary from thin to thick and they also come in different shapes and colors. Echeverias can do well in low light, but they also like a little bit of sun. If kept in low light, make sure not to over-water as they are prone to root rot.

5. RHIPSALIS

Native to the rain forests of Central America, South America, and the Caribbean, this cactus is unlike other succulents. This is because the rhipsalis is a epiphyte, which is a plant that grows on the surface of another plant. Additionally, they grow in rain forests, as opposed to succulents, which usually grow in desert-like environments and require dry, arid climates. These stunning looking plants thrive in low light, but also need regular watering to mimic their rain forest habitat.

6. SCHLUMBERGERA

Holiday cacti also known as Schlumbergera, depending on their flowering season these plants are given names like Christmas, Easter, thanks giving. This is a genus of cacti with other species, its stem shape resembles the shape of cacti which are joined one on to the other and then flower blossom at the end of the tip.

The flower of this plant has beautiful red, pink and white color. This plant easily maintains its shape in indirect sunlight or low light therefore can be called as a perfect addition to the table of your living room.

7. KALANCHOE

These low light succulents are native to Madagascar, and can come in different shapes and forms. The most popular types of kalanchoe succulents are the small shrubs. They are very easy to grow, as well as low maintenance, and can thrive in low light or indirect light.

8. HOYA

Hoya plants are common house plants that are known for their sweetly scented flowers and waxy foliage. They grow well in hanging baskets and pots and have thick and almost heart-shaped leaves. While most species are succulents, some are not. These plants grow well even with minimal light or partial shade and don’t need direct sunlight but they need protection from frost and intense heat.