Choosing between a rare orchid and a common fern for my shady corner

Jason Martinez · 2026-03-31T17:30:06.0984+00:00

I had to pick between a Phalaenopsis I saw at the local greenhouse or a Boston fern from the hardware store for a dark spot in my living room. I went with the fern, and it's already put out three new fronds in just two weeks. Has anyone else had better luck with a specific plant in low-light areas?

david7013mo ago

Ferns are honestly the way to go for shady spots like that. Boston ferns especially are tough as nails once they get settled in. I've had one in a north-facing corner for years now and it just keeps chugging along, even when I forget to water it for a few days. The trick with low light is to pick plants that naturally grow on forest floors, not ones bred for bright windowsills. A lot of rare orchids need more light than people think, so you probably made the smart call. Plus three new fronds in two weeks is a great sign, that fern is happy. Sometimes practical beats pretty, especially when you get new growth that fast.

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williams.sage5mo ago

Three new fronds in two weeks" is solid proof. I used to chase rare plants for dark spots, but ferns just get the job done.

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kellyg145mo ago

Yeah, I read something about snake plants being almost impossible to kill in low light. A friend has one in her windowless bathroom and it's somehow still alive after a year. I've killed two peace lilies in my dark hallway, so I gave up and put a fake plant there. Sometimes the simple choice is the right one.

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