Hanging plants bring life and color to any room, but finding ones that thrive in low light can be a challenge. I used to think I couldn’t keep any plants alive indoors, especially not hanging ones in my dimly lit apartment. But after some trial and error, I discovered several varieties that actually flourish without much sunlight. These plants are not only beautiful but also incredibly easy to care for, making them perfect for beginners or anyone with a less-than-sunny home. This guide will walk you through my top picks for low-light hanging plants, along with tips to keep them happy and healthy.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Pothos: Versatile, easy to propagate, and tolerates neglect.
- Spider Plant: Air-purifying, produces “spiderettes” (baby plants), and adaptable.
- String of Hearts: Delicate, trailing vines with heart-shaped leaves, drought-tolerant.
- English Ivy: Classic, cascading foliage, effective air purifier (but can be toxic to pets).
- Lipstick Plant: Unique flowers resembling lipstick tubes, prefers bright indirect light but can tolerate low light.
Top 5 Best Low Light Hanging Plants
1. Pothos
Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is a classic choice for hanging baskets. This plant is incredibly forgiving and can tolerate low light conditions, making it perfect for beginners. Its trailing vines add a touch of greenery to any space, and it’s very easy to propagate.
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely easy to care for, even for beginners.
- ✅ Tolerates low light and infrequent watering.
- ✅ Propagates easily from cuttings.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be toxic to pets if ingested.
- ❌ Leaves may lose variegation in very low light.
- ❌ Requires occasional trimming to maintain shape.
Verdict: A great choice for anyone new to plants or looking for a low-maintenance option. It’s versatile and adaptable, perfect for adding a touch of green to any room.
2. Spider Plant
Spider plants are known for their air-purifying qualities and distinctive “spiderettes” or baby plants that dangle from the mother plant. They’re adaptable to various conditions but thrive in bright, indirect light, though they can tolerate lower light levels too.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent air purifier.
- ✅ Produces spiderettes, which can be easily propagated.
- ✅ Relatively easy to care for.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be sensitive to fluoride in tap water.
- ❌ Brown tips can develop if the air is too dry.
- ❌ May attract spider mites if not properly cared for.
Verdict: A solid choice for anyone looking for an air-purifying plant that’s also visually interesting. Propagating the spiderettes is a fun and easy way to expand your plant collection.
3. String of Hearts
String of Hearts is a beautiful trailing succulent with delicate, heart-shaped leaves. It’s drought-tolerant and prefers bright, indirect light, but it can adapt to low-light conditions, although its growth may be slower. The long, cascading vines make it a stunning addition to any hanging basket.
Pros:
- ✅ Beautiful heart-shaped leaves.
- ✅ Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.
- ✅ Easy to propagate from cuttings or tubers.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be slow-growing, especially in low light.
- ❌ Susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
- ❌ Requires well-draining soil.
Verdict: A great choice for those who appreciate delicate and unique plants. Just be careful not to overwater it, and it will reward you with its beautiful trailing vines.
4. English Ivy
English Ivy is a classic climbing vine that also looks beautiful in hanging baskets. Its cascading foliage adds a touch of elegance to any space. It’s an effective air purifier, but it’s important to note that it can be toxic to pets.
Pros:
- ✅ Classic and elegant appearance.
- ✅ Effective air purifier.
- ✅ Relatively easy to grow.
Cons:
- ❌ Toxic to pets if ingested.
- ❌ Can be susceptible to spider mites.
- ❌ Requires regular pruning to control growth.
Verdict: A beautiful choice for adding a touch of classic charm to your home. However, be mindful of its toxicity if you have pets.
5. Lipstick Plant
Lipstick Plants are known for their unique flowers that resemble tubes of lipstick. While they prefer bright, indirect light, they can tolerate lower light conditions. Their trailing vines and unusual blooms make them a standout addition to any plant collection.
Pros:
- ✅ Unique and eye-catching flowers.
- ✅ Relatively easy to care for.
- ✅ Can tolerate some neglect.
Cons:
- ❌ May not flower in very low light.
- ❌ Can be susceptible to aphids.
- ❌ Requires well-draining soil.
Verdict: A great choice for those looking for a unique and flowering hanging plant. Providing enough light will encourage more blooms, but it can still thrive in lower light conditions.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right low-light hanging plant involves considering a few key factors. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Light Levels: Assess the amount of natural light your space receives. Even low-light plants need some light to survive.
- Watering Needs: Consider how often you’re willing to water your plants. Some, like the String of Hearts, are drought-tolerant, while others need more frequent watering.
- Pet Safety: If you have pets, choose non-toxic plants to avoid any potential health issues. Pothos and English Ivy are toxic to cats and dogs.
- Maintenance: Think about how much time you’re willing to spend on plant care. Some plants require more pruning and attention than others.
- Aesthetic Preference: Choose plants that you find visually appealing and that complement your home decor.
FAQs
Q: How often should I water my low-light hanging plants?
A: Watering frequency depends on the plant type and environmental conditions. Generally, it’s best to let the top inch of soil dry out before watering. Overwatering is a common mistake that can lead to root rot.
Q: What kind of soil should I use for my hanging plants?
A: Use a well-draining potting mix. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well for most hanging plants. For succulents like String of Hearts, use a cactus or succulent potting mix.
Q: How can I propagate my hanging plants?
A: Many hanging plants, such as Pothos and Spider Plants, are easy to propagate from cuttings. Simply take a cutting with a few leaves and place it in water until roots develop. Then, plant the rooted cutting in soil.
Q: Why are the leaves on my hanging plant turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. You may also need to fertilize your plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Q: How do I prevent pests from infesting my hanging plants?
A: Regularly inspect your plants for pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. If you find any pests, treat your plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Also, make sure to provide good air circulation and avoid overcrowding your plants.
Conclusion
Bringing greenery into your home doesn’t have to be a struggle, even with limited sunlight. These low-light hanging plants offer a beautiful and easy way to add life to any room. From the versatile Pothos to the delicate String of Hearts, there’s a plant for every taste and skill level. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy the beauty of these plants for years to come. So go ahead, pick your favorite, and transform your space into a green oasis!
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
