Shade-Loving Orchids are often associated with bright, indirect sunlight, but not all orchid species need intense light to thrive. If you’re someone who doesn’t have a south-facing window or if your home has areas with lower light levels, you might think orchids are out of reach. Fortunately, there are several orchid species that thrive in low light conditions. These orchids are perfect for homes, offices, or apartments where light can be limited but you still want to enjoy the beauty and elegance of these unique plants. In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 orchids that are well-suited for low light environments and offer tips on how to care for them.
Shade-Loving Orchids

Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid)
Phalaenopsis orchids, commonly known as moth orchids, are one of the most popular and easiest-to-care-for species. They are well-suited for indoor environments and can thrive in low light conditions.
Why It Thrives in Low Light: Phalaenopsis orchids naturally grow on trees in the shade of tropical forests, where they receive filtered light. They do well in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate lower light levels, making them perfect for spaces with limited natural sunlight
. Care Tips: Place Phalaenopsis orchids near an east- or west-facing window, or in rooms with light-filtering curtains. Water them when the top inch of the potting medium feels dry, and ensure they are in a well-draining pot to prevent root rot.
Paphiopedilum (Lady Slipper Orchid)
Paphiopedilum orchids, also known as lady slipper orchids, are another low-light-loving species that can adapt to less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
Why It Thrives in Low Light: These orchids are native to the forest floors of Southeast Asia, where they grow under the canopy and receive very little direct sunlight. They thrive in low to medium light conditions and can tolerate lower light levels than many other orchids.
Care Tips: Paphiopedilum orchids prefer slightly cooler temperatures and moderate humidity. Keep them in a location with indirect light and water when the growing medium is just slightly dry. Avoid direct sun, as this can scorch their leaves.
Miltonia (Pansy Orchid)
Miltonia orchids are known for their beautiful, pansy-like flowers, and they are surprisingly tolerant of lower light levels.
Why It Thrives in Low Light: In their native habitat, Miltonia orchids grow in the shade of larger plants, so they are naturally adapted to thrive in indirect and low light conditions.
Care Tips: These orchids do well in cooler indoor environments with bright but indirect light. Water them regularly, but avoid overwatering. Keep them in a well-draining potting mix to prevent water from collecting at the roots.
Ludisia (Jewel Orchid)
Ludisia orchids, also known as jewel orchids, are prized for their striking foliage rather than their flowers. These orchids are perfect for adding a touch of beauty to low-light spaces.
Why It Thrives in Low Light: Ludisia orchids are native to the forest floors of Southeast Asia, where they grow in low-light conditions. They can tolerate even dimly lit areas, making them ideal for rooms with limited sunlight.
Care Tips: These orchids prefer a warm, humid environment and do well in low light. Keep them in a location with indirect light and water them when the soil feels dry. They don’t require as much light as other orchids, but they still need to be kept away from complete darkness.
Dendrobium (Dendrobium Nobile)
Dendrobium orchids are versatile and can adapt to a variety of lighting conditions. Some species, like the Dendrobium Nobile, can thrive in low light.
Why It Thrives in Low Light: Dendrobium Nobile orchids naturally grow in the shaded areas of Southeast Asia’s forests, where they are protected from direct sunlight by taller trees. While they do best in bright, indirect light, they can handle lower light levels without too much difficulty.
Care Tips: Dendrobium Nobile orchids prefer cooler temperatures and high humidity. They can tolerate lower light conditions, but a few hours of indirect sunlight each day will encourage better blooming. Water when the medium is dry to the touch, and ensure proper drainage.
Zygopetalum
Zygopetalum orchids are known for their fragrant, colorful flowers and can adapt well to lower light levels.
Why It Thrives in Low Light: Zygopetalum orchids naturally grow in the shaded forests of South America. While they appreciate bright, indirect light, they can tolerate low light for extended periods.
Care Tips: Keep these orchids in moderate to low light and maintain consistent moisture in the growing medium. They also appreciate humidity, so consider using a humidity tray or room humidifier. Water when the potting mix is dry to the touch, and avoid letting the roots sit in water.
Oncidium (Dancing Lady Orchid)
Oncidium orchids, also known as dancing lady orchids due to their unique, shaped flowers, are quite adaptable when it comes to light levels.
Why It Thrives in Low Light: Oncidium orchids are native to the shaded regions of tropical America, and while they do best with medium to bright light, many varieties can tolerate lower light levels for a time.
Care Tips: Place Oncidium orchids in a location with bright, indirect light, but they will still bloom well in moderate light conditions. Water them regularly and ensure the potting mix is well-drained to avoid root rot.
Brassavola (Lady of the Night Orchid)
Brassavola orchids are known for their sweetly fragrant white flowers, and they are tolerant of lower light levels.
Why It Thrives in Low Light: Native to the tropical Americas, Brassavola orchids grow in shady areas, making them ideal for lower light environments.They can tolerate lower light levels, though they prefer bright, indirect light.
Care Tips: Brassavola orchids thrive in warm temperatures and need to be watered when their potting mix is dry. They also benefit from high humidity, so consider placing them on a humidity tray to maintain moisture levels.
Cymbidium
Cymbidium orchids are hardy and can tolerate a range of light conditions, including low light, making them a great option for beginners.
Why It Thrives in Low Light: Cymbidium orchids grow naturally in shaded areas of temperate and tropical regions. Although they prefer bright light, they can tolerate low light and still bloom beautifully, although the flowers may be smaller and less abundant.
Care Tips: Cymbidium orchids require cooler temperatures than many other orchids, and they thrive in high humidity. Place them in a location with indirect sunlight and water them when the top of the potting medium feels dry.
Masdevallia
Masdevallia orchids are small but stunning, with vibrant, often unusual flowers. They are ideal for growing in low light environments.
Why It Thrives in Low Light: These orchids naturally grow in the cloud forests of the Andes, where they receive very little direct sunlight. Low to moderate light levels and milder temperatures are ideal for their growth.
Care Tips: Masdevallia orchids require cooler temperatures and high humidity. Place them in a well-lit area with indirect light and water them regularly to keep the potting medium moist. They do not like to dry out completely, so be careful not to let them dry out too much between waterings.
Orchids are some of the most beautiful and diverse plants, and many species are well-suited for low-light environments. Whether you have a shaded corner in your home or office or simply want to grow orchids in areas with limited sunlight, the 10 orchids mentioned above are perfect choices. By understanding their specific needs for light, humidity, and watering, you can create the perfect environment for your orchids to thrive and enjoy their stunning blooms for years to come.
FAQs
What are shade-loving orchids?
Shade-loving orchids are types of orchids that thrive in low-light conditions, such as indirect sunlight or dappled shade. They are ideal for growing indoors or under trees.
Which orchids are best for shady areas?
Some popular shade-loving orchids include Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid), Ludisia (Jewel Orchid), Paphiopedilum (Lady’s Slipper Orchid), and Dendrobium. These species adapt well to low-light environments.
Can shade-loving orchids grow indoors?
Yes, shade-loving orchids are perfect for indoor settings where light levels are lower. Place them near windows with filtered light for the best results
Do shade-loving orchids need special care?
Shade-loving orchids require well-draining potting mix, moderate watering, and high humidity (50-70%). Regular fertilization with a balanced orchid fertilizer is also essential.
Can shade-loving orchids bloom in low light?
Yes, shade-loving orchids can bloom in low light. However, providing enough indirect light is crucial to stimulate flowering.
What temperatures do shade-loving orchids prefer?
Most shade-loving orchids thrive in temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C-24°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night.
Are shade-loving orchids suitable for beginners?
Yes, many shade-loving orchids, like Phalaenopsis, are easy to care for and perfect for beginners.
Can I grow shade-loving orchids outdoors?
Shade-loving orchids can be grown outdoors in shaded areas, such as under trees or in shaded greenhouses, in climates that mimic their natural tropical habitats.
Where can I buy shade-loving orchids?
You can find shade-loving orchids at garden centers, orchid nurseries, or online plant stores specializing in orchids.
What are the best conditions for shade-loving orchids?
Shade-loving orchids thrive in environments with indirect light, high humidity, and well-ventilated spaces. They also prefer temperatures that are not too extreme, making them suitable for indoor growing.