A north facing window is indirect light but not bright indirect light.
North facing windows provide indirect light but not bright indirect light as north facing windows get the least amount of direct sunlight and also offer a consistent, diffused light source.
North facing windows are good for providing a good light source for plants that prefer low to medium light.
However north facing windows are good light sources for plants which prefer low to medium light, but they are not suitable for plants that require bright, indirect light.
Near east or west facing windows or even south facing windows provide bright indirect light.
Bright indirect light is characterized by the lights intensity and lack of direct sun.
Plants that require bright indirect light, like many common houseplants, need a certain level of intensity for optimal growth.
North-facing windows do not get enough light for plants that need bright indirect light.
If you want to have your plants in a room that only has a north-facing window, you'll have to bring in some backup (artificial light) to make your plant happy.