Survival of a plant in a particular location depends on the available light in that location. Houseplant culture requires a close look at the light available in a particular room. South-facing windows receive the most intense light. Heat buildup may be dramatic and it can burn foliage. Houseplants that require direct sunlight should be set back 6 inches from the windowpane.
North windows are also the coolest.
Trees and shrubs, buildings, awnings, curtains and dirt on the window affect the quantity and quality of light that houseplants receive. Once out of the direct rays of sun, the level of light available to a plant drops drastically. Light-colored walls reflect light onto plants. Dark walls absorb the light. Houseplants may be classified by their light requirements.