Windowsills seem like the perfect place for houseplants — bright, sunny, and space-saving. But not all plants thrive in this environment. Some suffer from too much light, drafts, or extreme temperature changes that windows often bring. Keeping the wrong plants on a windowsill can lead to scorched leaves, stunted growth, or even death.
This guide covers common houseplants that should be kept away from windows, explains why, and suggests better alternatives for window spots.
Why Windows Aren’t Ideal for Every Plant
Although natural light is essential for plant health, window locations also come with challenges:
- Intense sun exposure can burn sensitive leaves.
- Cold drafts in winter may shock tropical plants.
- Hot glass can overheat roots in direct sunlight.
- Temperature swings from open/closed windows stress some species.
Understanding a plant’s native habitat is key to knowing whether a window environment is safe for it.
1. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Why not on a window:
Peace lilies are shade-loving tropicals. Direct sunlight can scorch their lush green leaves, causing browning or fading.
Preferred spot:
Place it a few feet away from a north or east-facing window with filtered light.
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Why not on a window:
Although it tolerates a range of light, too much direct sun, especially in summer, can cause leaf curling or dry, brittle tips.
Preferred spot:
Keep in indirect light — near a window, but not on the sill.
3. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Why not on a window:
This hardy plant prefers low to moderate light. Bright sun from a south or west window can bleach its dark green leaves.
Preferred spot:
Place it in a shaded corner or on a low shelf away from direct light.
4. Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum spp.)
Why not on a window:
This delicate fern dries out quickly in bright, sunny spots. It needs constant humidity and shade.
Preferred spot:
Keep it in a bathroom or shaded room with stable moisture levels.
5. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Why not on a window:
Pothos can survive low light, but direct sun may cause leaf scorching or yellowing.
Preferred spot:
Hang it in bright but indirect light — near a curtained window is ideal.
6. Calathea (Prayer Plant Family)
Why not on a window:
Calatheas are sensitive to light. Direct sun causes their vibrant patterns to fade and their leaves to crisp.
Preferred spot:
Choose low-light corners or filtered light from an east-facing window.
7. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Why not on a window:
These plants suffer in direct sunlight. Their decorative leaves bleach and their growth slows.
Preferred spot:
Use as an accent plant away from windows in medium to low light.
8. Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)
Why not on a window:
This tropical plant prefers consistent, soft light. Sun from windows can cause dry spots or leaf drop.
Preferred spot:
Filtered light or dappled shade suits it best.
9. Dracaena Varieties
Why not on a window:
Direct sun causes leaf browning and can dry out the tips, especially in compact spaces like windowsills.
Preferred spot:
Place near a sheer-curtained window for diffused light.
10. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
Why not on a window:
Though hardy, English ivy dries out quickly in direct sun and struggles with temperature swings.
Preferred spot:
Better suited to cooler rooms with consistent indirect light.
Bonus: Signs Your Plant Hates the Window
Even if a plant isn’t on this list, watch for these signs that a window placement isn’t working:
- Brown or scorched leaf edges
- Wilting despite regular watering
- Bleached or faded foliage
- Sudden leaf drop
- Pest outbreaks due to weakened immunity
If you notice these, move your plant further into the room and monitor improvement.
Best Plant Types For Windows
To contrast, here are a few that love being right on the windowsill:
- Succulents (like jade or echeveria)
- Cacti
- Aloe vera
- Herbs (like basil, rosemary, thyme)
- Spider plants (prefer east or north-facing windows)
These sun-loving varieties are much better equipped for the conditions windows provide.
Final Thoughts
Not every houseplant can thrive on a windowsill. While light is vital for growth, too much of it — or sudden shifts in temperature — can damage certain species. Knowing your plant’s light and temperature tolerance is the first step toward placing it wisely.
For a healthier indoor garden, observe your plants, experiment with placement, and adjust as needed. A small move away from the window might be the key to keeping your greenery thriving.
FAQs
Which houseplants are sensitive to sunlight?
Calatheas, ferns, peace lilies, and Chinese evergreens are all sensitive to direct sunlight and do better in indirect or shaded conditions.
Can I use curtains to protect plants near a window?
Yes. Sheer curtains or blinds can diffuse sunlight and make a windowsill safe for more light-sensitive plants.
What’s the best window direction for plants?
East-facing windows are ideal for most houseplants. They offer gentle morning light that’s less likely to cause damage.
How can I tell if my plant is getting sunburned?
Look for crisp edges, faded patches, or brown spots on leaves — all are signs of sun stress.
Are south-facing windows bad for plants?
Not always — they’re perfect for sun-loving plants like succulents and herbs but can be too intense for tropical or shade-loving varieties.