As plant enthusiasts, we understand the importance of finding the perfect spot for our houseplants to thrive. When it comes to indoor gardening, the appropriate light levels are crucial in determining the success of our green companions.
East facing windows, with their gentle morning sunlight, provide an ideal environment for a wide range of houseplants.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best houseplants for east facing windows, their unique characteristics, and how to care for them to ensure their long-term health and beauty.
Understanding East Facing Window Light
An east facing window offers a unique advantage for indoor plants, providing direct morning sunlight that is relatively gentle compared to the intense afternoon sun from west-facing windows.
This makes it an excellent choice for a variety of houseplants, even those typically labeled as needing “bright indirect light.”
Indoor light intensity is significantly weaker than outdoor light, so direct sun exposure indoors does not have the same intensity. As a result, plants that are suitable for low light conditions can thrive in an east facing window.
While the morning sun from an east facing window is beneficial for houseplants, it’s essential to consider other factors that can affect light levels, such as your location and the degree of window obstruction.
It’s worth noting that the plants recommended for east facing windows can also adapt to other exposures, so don’t hesitate to experiment with their placement in your home.
Best Houseplants for East Facing Windows
1. African Violets
African Violets are stunning flowering houseplants that thrive in east facing windows. With a wide range of colors and even variegated varieties available, African Violets add a touch of elegance to any indoor space.
They are known for their constant blooms when well-cared for. Check out this African Violet care guide to learn more about their care requirements and tips for successful cultivation.
2. Air Plants
Air Plants, also known as Tillandsia, are unique epiphytes that can thrive in east facing windows. These fascinating plants attach themselves to trees in their natural habitat and absorb moisture through their leaves.
While they require ample light indoors, they are relatively low-maintenance if you provide them with the right conditions. Learn more about Tillandsia care and explore some easy air plant varieties to start your collection.
3. Alocasias
For a touch of exotic flair, consider growing Alocasias in your east facing window. With a wide variety of Alocasia types available, these plants are sure to attract attention with their stunning foliage.
However, they can be prone to spider mites, so it’s crucial to keep a watchful eye on their health. Explore the world of Alocasias and learn more about their care in this Alocasia types guide.
4. Arrowhead Vine
Syngonium plants, commonly known as Arrowhead Vine, are versatile and easy to grow in east facing windows. With a wide variety of Syngonium varieties available, you can choose a favorite based on their unique leaf shapes, colors, and patterns.
They are also relatively easy to propagate, making them a popular choice among plant enthusiasts. Check out this Syngonium care guide to learn more about their care requirements and propagation techniques.
5. Begonias
Begonias are known for their stunning foliage, making them a fantastic addition to any east facing window. With a wide variety of Begonia types available, you can find the perfect one to suit your taste.
One popular variety is the Begonia maculata, with its distinctive polka dot pattern on the leaves. Discover the world of Begonias and learn more about their care in this Begonia types guide.
6. Boston Fern
Boston Ferns can add a touch of elegance to your east facing window. While they can tolerate lower light conditions, they will appreciate some direct sun exposure.
Proper watering is crucial for Boston Ferns, as they dislike drying out. Keep the soil consistently moist and consider using a humidity tray or misting the leaves to provide the necessary moisture.
Learn more about Boston Fern care to keep your ferns happy and healthy.
7. Chinese Evergreen
Chinese Evergreen, also known as Aglaonema, is a popular choice for east facing windows. With their attractive foliage patterns and colors, Chinese Evergreens can brighten up any indoor space.
They are relatively easy to care for and propagate, making them a great option for beginners. Explore the world of Chinese Evergreens and learn more about their care and propagation in this Chinese Evergreen care guide.
8. Hoyas
Hoyas offer the best of both worlds with their gorgeous foliage and beautiful fragrant flowers. With a wide variety of Hoya plants available, you can find one that suits your taste and growing conditions.
Discover some beautiful Hoya varieties and learn how to encourage them to bloom in this Hoya care guide.
9. Jade Plants
No houseplant collection is complete without a Jade Plant. While they can tolerate low light conditions, they thrive when placed in an east facing window, receiving at least some direct sun.
Jade Plants are known for their resilience and longevity, making them an excellent choice for beginners. Explore this Jade Plant care guide to learn more about their care requirements and propagation techniques.
10. Prayer Plant
Prayer plants, also known as Maranta, are captivating houseplants with their unique leaf movements. Their leaves fold up at night, resembling hands in prayer, and unfurl during the day.
Prayer plants thrive in east facing windows, where they can receive ample indirect sunlight. Proper watering is crucial for their well-being, as they prefer consistently moist soil.
Discover more about Prayer Plant care and how to prevent common issues like curling and browning leaves in this Prayer Plant care guide.
11. Snake Plants
Snake plants, or Sansevieria, are renowned for their resilience and air-purifying qualities. With a wide variety of Snake Plant varieties available, you can find one that suits your style and growing conditions.
While Snake Plants can tolerate lower light conditions, they can even grow in the sunniest window indoors. Learn more about Snake Plant care and propagation in this Snake Plant types guide and Sansevieria propagation guide.
12. Moth Orchids
Moth Orchids, or Phalaenopsis, are renowned for their exquisite and long-lasting flowers. With their stunning blooms, Moth Orchids can add a touch of elegance and beauty to any east facing window.
They require a balance of light and humidity to thrive, making the east facing window an ideal spot for them. Discover more about orchid watering and how to care for Moth Orchids in this comprehensive Phalaenopsis care guide.
13. Goldfish Plant
Goldfish plants, with their glossy foliage and unique orange flowers, can bring a splash of color to your east facing window. Their trailing stems can grow several feet long, creating a visually stunning display.
Goldfish plants thrive in east facing windows, where they can receive gentle morning sun. Explore the world of Goldfish plants and learn more about their care in this comprehensive Goldfish Plant care guide.
14. Umbrella Tree
If you’re looking for a tall plant to grace your east facing window, the Umbrella Tree, or Schefflera, is an excellent choice. With its impressive height and vibrant foliage, the Umbrella Tree can create a striking focal point in any room.
There are different types of Schefflera available, with varying leaf sizes and growth habits. Discover more about the Umbrella Tree and learn how to propagate it in this Umbrella Plant care guide.
15. Calathea
Calathea plants are known for their stunning foliage patterns and are a popular choice for east facing windows. While they can be somewhat challenging to grow indoors, they reward dedicated plant parents with their mesmerizing leaves.
Proper watering, humidity, and avoiding direct sunlight are key to their care. Discover more about Calathea plants and learn how to minimize brown, crispy leaves in this Calathea care guide.
Conclusion
Bringing natural light indoors is essential for the overall health and well-being of your houseplants. East facing windows offer a fantastic opportunity to provide the perfect balance of light intensity for your indoor garden. From African Violets to Prayer Plants, there is a wide variety of houseplants that will thrive in east facing windows.
By selecting the right plants and providing them with the care they need, you can create a vibrant and beautiful indoor garden. So, embrace the gentle morning sun and enjoy the lush greenery that these plants bring to your east facing windows. Happy gardening!