Lowlight plants can grow with the cheap bulbs and low wattage that come with many aquariums. I have several of them. A few popular choices in the lowlight category are Java Moss, Java Fern, many types of Crypts, arachnis and bacopa. There are many others, but these are hard to lose with. They will also grow fine (although slowly) without fertz or Co2 and in just about any substrate like the gravel LFS foist off on you when you get your first tank.
To grow medium light plants, you will need 2-3 watts of light per gallon of water and will need to use fertz eventually. They will definately benefit from CO2 and substrate for plants, such as Eco-complete.
High light plants can require up to 5 watts per gallon, regular fertz and definately co2 injection and possibly upgraded, specialty substrates.
This is basic, generic information. Hope it helps.