The Unique Houseplant That Doesn't Require A Ton Of Light

Do you have a dim corner in your home that you wish you could brighten the space with a plant? Finding a houseplant that can survive away from a sunny window can be difficult, often forcing you to choose between the room's design and your plants' health. Fortunately, there's a plant that doesn't require a ton of light that you can put in a corner: The Mandarin plant (Chlorophytum orchidastrum). Sometimes called 'Fire Flash,' this plant adds a pop of color to any shaded space without needing much light.

Mandarin plants are known for their vibrant, apricot-orange petioles that contrast with their green leaves, which can give them a glowing appearance even in dim light. This species can thrive in partial shade where many other tropical plants would wilt or die. Originally from Africa, this plant is durable and forgiving if placed in a lower-light environment, slowing its growth rate rather than developing discolored leaves. This means you can put it in a room with a north-facing window and know that it will still do well without constant sun exposure.

The most eye-catching feature of the Mandarin plant is its distinct coloring, which is how it got its nickname 'Fire Flash.' Unlike the common green and white striped spider plant to which it's closely related, this plant has a contrast of dark green leaves supported by apricot-orange petioles and midribs. These stems clump together in a neat, upright rosette habit, which gives it a glowing appearance at its center. The leaves are broad and can grow up to 12 inches, often having slightly wavy edges.

Native to the subtropical and tropical regions of South and West Africa, this perennial plant grows well indoors as a houseplant, where it can reach a height of about 16 inches and spread up to 2 feet. Unlike its cousin, the spider plant, it doesn't grow stems with baby plantlets, but it will occasionally bloom with small white, star-shaped flowers from the rosette's center.

While the Mandarin plant is known for being a low-maintenance and forgiving houseplant, there are some tips that can help maintain its signature color and prevent common issues. Its roots are designed to retain water, a characteristic that makes it somewhat drought-resistant and less susceptible to lapses in the watering schedule. The plant should be watered thoroughly, allowing the excess water to drain completely, and water again only when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Use a well-draining potting mix, one with perlite or sand would work well.

Use distilled water or let tap water sit out overnight to help reduce the majority of chlorine in the water. This helps prevent the leaf tips from turning brown, since the Mandarin plant is sensitive to minerals, salts, and chemicals found in common tap water. The plant prefers temperatures between 70 degrees Fahrenheit and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, so make sure to place it away from cold windows and air vents.