The best aquarium plants for low light are Anubias, Java fern, Java moss, Bucephalandra and Cryptocoryne — all of which thrive in dim tanks with no CO₂. If your tank has a basic LED or sits away from a window, these are the plants to choose.
Why these plants tolerate low light
They’re slow-growing and undemanding, so they need far less light energy than fast carpeting or stem plants. That makes them perfect for beginners, offices and any low-tech tank.
The best low-light plants, ranked by shade tolerance
- Anubias — the most shade-tolerant of all. Low light, no CO₂, attaches to wood and rock. Shop Anubias.
- Java fern — extremely forgiving in dim tanks. Shop ferns & mosses.
- Java moss — grows in very low light; ideal for shrimp tanks.
- Bucephalandra — as shade-tolerant as Anubias, with a premium look. Shop Bucephalandra.
- Cryptocoryne — hardy rooted plant happy in low-to-moderate light. Shop Cryptocoryne.
Low-light tips
Run your light around 8 hours a day, keep it low to discourage algae, and dose a weekly liquid fertiliser. Avoid demanding carpet plants until you upgrade your lighting. All of these ship across India with a live-arrival guarantee — browse the collection.