Plants for Sunny Spaces
Because most interior environments have lower light levels than required by most plants, we tend to focus our attention on shade-loving or “low-light” plants. Yet, there are unique situations where sun-loving plants will work indoors. As summer is upon us and you’re hopefully enjoying an abundance of sunshine as of late, we’re exploring plants that like bright light and locations where they might work in your space!
What Plants See
Before we explore our favorite plants for sunny spaces, let’s talk about how plants perceive light. Have you ever walked into a house after being outside on a bright, sunny July afternoon? What could you see? Darkness, right? Our sophisticated human eyes are capable of adjusting to dim lighting in just seconds.
Now, think about what a plant sees. Even though plants don’t have eyes, they do perceive light! They sense light quality (color), light quantity (intensity) and light duration (time). Different from human eyes that adjust quickly to varying light levels, plants are incapable of the quick switch from dim to bright lighting.
Although most don't realize it, plants change their growth to favor current growing conditions. They acclimate to their environment’s lighting by producing leaves optimized to take in the amount of light provided. Because of that fact, moving a plant from inside to outside (or outside-in) can shock its leaves and cause sun scorch. While some plants can acclimate to higher light levels with time, there is a limit to how much an individual plant species can handle. Because of their genetic make-up, different plants handle different light levels.
Most interior environments provide much less light than you would think. The best way to check light levels is to download a free light meter app on your phone and check up on plant species light requirements.
Reading the Signs
You can always start with our basic care suggestions, online research and light meters to find a location for your newest plant, but if you are still unsure that your plant is getting the right amount of sunlight, there are a few plant signals to watch out for:
Variegation - If your plant exhibits variegated leaf patterns that begin to disappear over time, you need to increase light levels. In most plants, variegation is supported by light. There are a few exceptions where the situation is reversed, like Tradescantia zebrina, but in most cases it’s a good rule of thumb to follow.
Anthocyanin Production - Antho-what? Anthocyanins are the red-purple pigments produced in plants. In some species like succulents and orchids, anthocyanins increase in plant leaves to protect the plant from high light levels. Think of it like a suntan. If you notice a reddish hue developing in leaves, slightly decrease light exposure.
Stretch - The most widespread sign that a plant is in need of more light is stem stretch. When plants begin to grow rapidly in height, producing thin stems and more space between leaves, the plant is begging for more light! Move your plant to a sunnier spot. In some cases, you may also consider giving the plant a trim to avoid a tipsy situation.
Growth Rate - Because plants require light to support growth, sometimes in low light conditions, plant growth can completely halt. If you notice that your plant has not put on new growth in a few weeks, try moving the plant to a brighter location.
Flowers - In most cases, flowering plants require bright interior locations to provide flower power. If you notice flower loss or lack of flowers altogether, it’s likely because the plant needs more light.
Sun Scorch - The age-old sign that your plant is in too much light is sun scorch. Most of the time sun scorch causes random dry, brown patches on leaves exposed to the most light. While the damage cannot be reversed, your plant should be able to recover if you move it to a less intense location and allow the plant time to rebound. Avoid sun scorch altogether by researching your plant before you place it outside!
Bring on the Light!
Plants that are considered outdoor shade plants or conservatory plants can be perfect candidates for bright interior locations. And, our world of houseplants is becoming broader every day! For now, here’s a list of houseplants that love to soak up the sun:
Full, Bright Light
Succulents (Agave, Haworthia, Kalanchoe, Echeveria, Crassula)
Palms & Cycads
Ivy
Croton
Yucca
Cacti
Indirect, Bright Light
Rex Begonia & Tuberous Begonia
Spider Plant
Fiddle-Leaf Fig
Schefflera
Flowering Plants (Gesneriads, orchids, anthuriums, etc.)
Venus Flytrap
Bright Areas in the Interior
Bright interior locations can be elusive. Here are a few places to consider:
Bright rooms with several windows
Covered outdoor patios
West and south-facing windows and rooms
Rooms with natural and artificial light
If you love sun-loving plants, consider supplemental lighting! While not all grow lights are made equal, there are several available that work well to support plants in addition to the natural light provided in your interior space. Remember though, artificial lights should be used as supplements to natural lighting. Sun-loving plants will take everything they can get in an interior!
To Recap
Light is the most important factor to consider when choosing a plant for your home. Thankfully, there are just as many sun-loving plants as shade-loving plants. There truly is a plant for every location, all you have to do is look!