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The best hanging plants for small spaces make it easy to add greenery without the clutter! Discover 15 easy-care plants that thrive in compact, vertical displays.
Best Hanging Plants for Small Spaces can completely transform a room without taking up floor space.
If you’re dealing with limited room but want to bring in some greenery, hanging plants are an ideal solution that adds life and style to your home.
Here’s a guide to the best hanging plants that fit any space.
Hanging Plants for Small Spaces
Key Takeaways:
- Hanging Plants for Small Spaces include Spider Plants, Pothos, and String of Pearls.
- These low-maintenance plants thrive in vertical arrangements, saving floor space while adding greenery.
- Ideal for apartments and small rooms, these plants bring life and style to any compact area with minimal care requirements.
1. 15 Best Hanging Plants for Small Spaces: Ultimate Guide
Hanging plants are a fantastic way to bring greenery into a small space without sacrificing valuable floor or shelf space.
They add a touch of nature and freshness to rooms, helping to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere without any clutter.
Whether you’re living in an apartment, a studio, or simply want to make the most of a compact room, hanging plants make it easy to enjoy plants in even the smallest of spaces.
Appeal of Hanging Plants
Hanging plants are perfect for small spaces because they utilize vertical space, making them a great fit for apartments or rooms where every inch matters.
They bring in color, life, and even air-purifying benefits while staying off the ground.
Plus, the variety of hanging plants available means you can find something that suits both your space and light conditions, no matter where you live.
Purpose of the Guide
This guide introduces 15 of the best hanging plants for compact spaces, covering a range of options from low-light tolerant plants to sun-loving varieties.
With care tips and display ideas, you’ll find the perfect hanging plants to fit your home’s style and your lifestyle, making it easier than ever to bring greenery into any space.
2. Benefits of Hanging Plants in Small Spaces
Hanging plants offer a great solution for adding greenery to compact living spaces, making them a smart and stylish choice for any small apartment or room.
Here’s why hanging plants are an ideal option when you’re working with limited space.
Space Efficiency
- Hanging plants make the most of vertical space, allowing you to enjoy greenery without cluttering tables, counters, or floors.
- By using the walls and ceilings, you can create a lush indoor garden that stays out of the way, perfect for small apartments or rooms with limited surface area.
Aesthetic Appeal
- Adding height with hanging plants draws the eye upward, giving a room more visual interest and a natural feel.
- With trailing vines or full, bushy foliage, hanging plants add texture and warmth, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
- They can turn any space into a little green oasis.
Air Quality Improvement
- Many hanging plants, like Spider Plants and Pothos, are known for their air-purifying qualities, which is especially valuable in smaller spaces.
- They help remove indoor pollutants, improving air quality and making the space feel fresher and more breathable.
3. Types of Hanging Plants for Small Spaces
Finding the right type of hanging plant depends on your space, light availability, and even whether or not you have pets.
Here’s a breakdown of different types of hanging plants to suit various needs, from low-light rooms to pet-friendly options.
Low-Light Tolerant Options
For rooms with limited sunlight, low-light plants can thrive in indirect or shaded areas.
• Best Choices: Pothos, Heartleaf Philodendron, and Spider Plant.
• Ideal For: Bathrooms, bedrooms, or any room with minimal natural light.
Bright Light Lovers
Bright, sun-loving plants are perfect for hanging near windows where they can soak up plenty of light.
• Best Choices: String of Pearls, Burro’s Tail, and Hoya.
• Ideal For: Sun-filled rooms or spaces near south or west-facing windows.
Pet-Friendly Choices
If you have pets, opt for non-toxic hanging plants that are safe for cats and dogs.
• Best Choices: Boston Fern, Spider Plant, and Areca Palm.
• Ideal For: Households with pets who might get curious about greenery.
Trailing vs. Bushy Plants
Trailing plants add a cascading effect, while bushy plants give a fuller look.
• Trailing: String of Hearts, English Ivy, and Pothos, which bring an elegant, cascading vibe.
• Bushy: Boston Fern and Spider Plant for a full, lush appearance that fills out hanging baskets.
4. Top 15 Hanging Plants for Small Spaces
Hanging plants are a perfect solution for small spaces, offering greenery and life without taking up valuable floor or counter space.
Whether you’re looking for trailing vines, bold foliage, or lush fronds, there’s a hanging plant that suits your style and care level.
Here’s a closer look at 15 of the best options for compact living spaces, complete with care tips and unique traits.
1. String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
If you’re after a plant that’s both eye-catching and unique, the String of Pearls is a standout choice.
With its cascading strands of bead-like leaves, it’s perfect for creating visual interest in any space.
- Light Needs: Bright, indirect light.
- Watering: Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
- Care Tips: Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to keep this succulent thriving.
2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Spider Plant is a classic for good reason—it’s easy to grow, highly adaptable, and even produces baby plants that you can propagate.
Its graceful, arching leaves make it a versatile choice for any room.
- Light Needs: Bright to moderate, indirect light.
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Care Tips: Rotate the plant occasionally to encourage even growth and maintain its shape.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Known as the “Devil’s Ivy” for its hardiness, Pothos is one of the most forgiving plants out there.
Its long, trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves add elegance and charm to your space.
- Light Needs: Low to bright, indirect light.
- Watering: Allow soil to dry between waterings.
- Care Tips: Trim back vines regularly to prevent overgrowth and encourage new growth.
4. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
Thorsen’s Greenhouse Live Green English Ivy Plant, Hedera Helix, Live Indoor Plant, 4″ Diameter Pot
For a timeless and classic look, English Ivy is hard to beat. Its elegant, trailing vines bring a touch of sophistication to hanging baskets or wall planters.
- Light Needs: Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Watering: Keep soil slightly moist but avoid overwatering.
- Care Tips: Prune regularly to maintain shape and prevent it from becoming invasive.
5. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston Ferns bring lush greenery to any room with their full, feathery fronds. They’re ideal for hanging in spaces with moderate light and a bit of humidity.
- Light Needs: Indirect light with some humidity.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry seasons.
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Care Tips: Mist the leaves regularly or place near a humidifier for optimal growth.
6. Burro’s Tail (Sedum morganianum)
If you’re into succulents, Burro’s Tail is a must-have. Its thick, trailing stems covered in plump leaves make it a fun and quirky addition to your hanging plant collection.
- Light Needs: Bright, indirect light.
- Watering: Water sparingly; allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
- Care Tips: Handle gently, as the leaves can easily fall off.
7. Hoya (Hoya spp.)
Hoyas are a favorite among plant lovers for their waxy leaves and occasional fragrant blooms. Their trailing vines look beautiful in a hanging basket or macrame holder.
- Light Needs: Bright, indirect light.
- Watering: Water when soil is dry to the touch.
- Care Tips: Provide a stable temperature and avoid moving frequently to encourage flowering.
8. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
The Heartleaf Philodendron is a dependable option for beginners. Its trailing vines with heart-shaped leaves add a cozy, welcoming touch to any corner.
- Light Needs: Low to moderate indirect light.
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Care Tips: Trim vines to control length and encourage bushier growth.
9. String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii)
String of Hearts – Hearts Entangled -Ceropegia woodii-2.5″ Pot-Collector’ Series
Delicate and romantic, the String of Hearts is perfect for adding a whimsical vibe to your home. Its thin vines adorned with heart-shaped leaves bring softness and charm.
- Light Needs: Bright, indirect light.
- Watering: Allow soil to dry out between waterings.
- Care Tips: Use a small pot to encourage healthier growth and avoid overwatering.
10. Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum spp.)
Maidenhair Ferns are known for their delicate, feathery fronds. They thrive in humid environments, making them a stunning choice for bathrooms or kitchens.
- Light Needs: Indirect light and high humidity.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but avoid soggy conditions.
- Care Tips: Place in a tray with pebbles and water to maintain humidity levels.
11. Tradescantia (Tradescantia zebrina)
Tradescantia adds a vibrant pop of color with its purple-striped leaves. It’s a fast-growing option that brings energy and flair to your space.
- Light Needs: Bright, indirect light.
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil dries out.
- Care Tips: Pinch back stems to promote fuller growth.
12. Inch Plant (Tradescantia fluminensis)
![Bumble Plants Live Tradescantia Bubblegum Nanouk Purple Plant [Winter Thermal Packaging Included] | Fully Rooted Rare Houseplant for Home Office Wedding Decorations | Indoor and Outdoor Plant](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41XTOP4D-VL._SL500_.jpg "Bumble Plants Live Tradescantia Bubblegum Nanouk Purple Plant [Winter Thermal Packaging Included] | Fully Rooted Rare Houseplant for Home Office Wedding Decorations | Indoor and Outdoor Plant")
With colorful leaves and rapid growth, the Inch Plant is perfect for those looking to fill a space quickly. Its trailing vines add a dynamic look to hanging displays.
- Light Needs: Bright, indirect light.
- Watering: Keep soil slightly moist, especially during active growth.
- Care Tips: Regularly prune to maintain a compact appearance.
13. Peperomia Hope (Peperomia tetraphylla)
Peperomia Hope offers small, round leaves on trailing stems that are compact and low-maintenance. It’s a great choice for adding greenery to tight spaces.
- Light Needs: Bright, indirect light.
- Watering: Water when the top half of the soil is dry.
- Care Tips: Use a small pot to prevent overwatering and encourage healthier roots.
14. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Golden Pothos combines ease of care with striking yellow-variegated leaves. It’s a low-maintenance plant that thrives in almost any light condition.
- Light Needs: Adaptable to low or bright, indirect light.
- Watering: Allow soil to dry out between waterings.
- Care Tips: Dust leaves occasionally to allow maximum light absorption.
15. Asparagus Fern (Asparagus setaceus)
With its feathery, delicate foliage, the Asparagus Fern adds an airy elegance to hanging baskets. It’s a lush, versatile choice for spaces with indirect light.
- Light Needs: Indirect light and enjoys humidity.
- Watering: Keep soil moist but avoid waterlogging.
- Care Tips: Fertilize monthly during the growing season for fuller, healthier fronds.
5. Caring for Hanging Plants
Keeping hanging plants healthy doesn’t have to be difficult, even in small spaces. With the right care techniques, you can ensure your plants thrive and continue to bring greenery and charm to your home.
Here are the key care tips to make your hanging plants flourish.
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Watering Tips
Proper watering is essential for the health of hanging plants, especially since they tend to dry out faster than potted plants on the ground.
- Check soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch is dry.
- Use pots with drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the roots.
- Be mindful of water runoff when watering hanging plants indoors.
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Light Positioning
Matching your plant to the right light conditions is critical for growth.
- Place low-light plants like Pothos or Heartleaf Philodendron in shaded or dim corners.
- Hang sun-loving plants like Burro’s Tail or String of Pearls near windows with bright, indirect light.
- Rotate plants every few weeks to ensure even light exposure and growth.
- Humidity Needs
Some hanging plants, especially tropical varieties, thrive in more humid environments.
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- Use a humidifier or mist your plants regularly to increase humidity.
- Group plants together to create a mini-humid microclimate.
- Place ferns, like Maidenhair or Boston Ferns, in naturally humid rooms like bathrooms or kitchens.
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Fertilizing
A little fertilizer can go a long way in keeping your hanging plants healthy and vibrant.
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- Feed plants with a diluted liquid fertilizer every 1-2 months during the growing season.
- Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can harm your plants or cause root burn.
- Opt for a balanced fertilizer suitable for indoor plants.
With consistent watering, proper lighting, and a bit of extra care for humidity, your hanging plants will thrive, making your small space feel fresh and inviting.
6. Display Ideas for Hanging Plants in Small Spaces
The way you display your hanging plants can make a big difference in how they enhance your space.
With a little creativity, you can maximize both function and aesthetics, creating a lush, green look that fits seamlessly into small apartments or compact rooms.
Here are some clever display ideas to make the most of your space.
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Macrame and Rope Hangers
Macrame and rope hangers are a stylish way to elevate your plants and create a cozy, boho vibe.
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- Ideal for trailing plants like String of Pearls and Pothos.
- Easy to hang from the ceiling or wall brackets for a floating effect.
- Adds a decorative, textured element to your room.
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Floating Shelves
Floating shelves let you showcase multiple hanging plants in one spot while keeping them off the ground.
- Perfect for grouping plants with similar light needs, like Spider Plants and Heartleaf Philodendrons.
- Offers flexibility to adjust spacing for different plant sizes.
- Great for kitchens, living rooms, or bedrooms with empty wall space.
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Mounted Wall Planters
Wall planters are a fantastic way to create a living wall in small spaces.
- Works well with compact plants like Peperomia Hope or Tradescantia.
- Keeps plants secure and out of the way, especially in tight rooms.
- Adds an organized, modern look to your decor.
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Windows and Window Frames
Hanging plants near windows can bring in natural light and brighten up the space.
- Ideal for sun-loving plants like Burro’s Tail or String of Hearts.
- Use suction cup hooks or extendable rods to hang plants directly in front of windows.
- Adds visual interest without blocking too much light.
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Tiered Stands or Corner Displays
Tiered stands or corner hangers can transform unused nooks into lush plant displays.
- Best for grouping bushy plants like Boston Ferns or Asparagus Ferns.
- Saves floor space while creating a vertical garden effect.
- Adds depth and dimension to the room’s layout.
With these display ideas, you can make your hanging plants a stylish and functional part of your small space.
7. Pet-Friendly Hanging Plants
For pet owners, finding hanging plants that are both safe and beautiful is essential.
The good news is that there are plenty of pet-friendly options that can bring greenery into your space without any risk to your furry friends.
Here are a few top picks for safe, low-maintenance hanging plants.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Spider Plant is a pet-safe favorite that’s easy to care for and thrives in hanging baskets.
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- Why It’s Great: Non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a worry-free choice.
- Care Needs: Prefers bright to moderate indirect light and minimal watering.
- Bonus: Produces baby “spiderettes” that you can propagate for more plants.
Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
Also known as the Butterfly Palm, this plant brings a touch of the tropics to your home while being safe for pets.
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- Why It’s Great: Non-toxic and adaptable to various light conditions.
- Care Needs: Thrives in bright, indirect light with occasional watering.
- Bonus: Its feathery fronds add softness and elegance to any room.
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston Ferns are a lush, pet-friendly choice that look great in hanging baskets or macrame hangers.
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- Why It’s Great: Safe for pets and thrives in humid conditions.
- Care Needs: Prefers indirect light and consistently moist soil.
- Bonus: Helps purify the air, making it a functional addition to your space.
With these pet-safe hanging plants, you can enjoy greenery in your home without any risk to your furry companions.
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid
While hanging plants are relatively easy to care for, a few common mistakes can hinder their growth and beauty.
Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your plants thrive in your small space:
Overwatering
Overwatering is one of the most common issues with hanging plants, often leading to root rot.
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- How to Avoid: Let the top inch of soil dry before watering, especially for succulents like String of Pearls.
- Tip: Always use pots with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
Insufficient Light
Even low-light plants require some light to thrive, and placing them in overly dark spots can stunt growth.
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- How to Avoid: Match each plant to its light needs, such as placing sun-loving plants near windows.
- Tip: Rotate plants occasionally to ensure even light exposure on all sides.
Neglecting Pruning
Without regular pruning, hanging plants can become overgrown or tangled, making them look messy.
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- How to Avoid: Trim back trailing vines, like Pothos or Tradescantia, to encourage healthy growth.
- Tip: Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant looking fresh and tidy.
Ignoring Pest Issues
Pests like spider mites or aphids can quickly damage hanging plants if left unchecked.
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- How to Avoid: Inspect plants regularly, especially the undersides of leaves, for signs of pests.
- Tip: Use a gentle insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations naturally.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can keep your hanging plants healthy and vibrant, ensuring they remain a beautiful feature of your space.
9. Conclusion
Hanging plants are a wonderful way to bring greenery and life into small spaces, making the most of vertical areas while keeping your home stylish and organized.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned plant lover, there’s a hanging plant to fit your lifestyle, lighting conditions, and space limitations.
With the right care and creative displays, these plants can transform your apartment into a lush, vibrant haven.
Why Hanging Plants Are Ideal for Small Spaces
Hanging plants are perfect for compact living spaces because they save surface area, add height and dimension to your decor, and can be customized to fit your home’s aesthetic.
They’re versatile, low-maintenance, and can thrive in any corner of your apartment with a little attention to light and watering needs.
Key Takeaways
- Top Plant Choices: Popular options like Pothos, Spider Plants, and String of Pearls are easy to care for and visually striking.
- Space-Saving Displays: Use macrame hangers, floating shelves, or wall-mounted planters to maximize small spaces.
- Care Tips: Match each plant to its light needs, water thoughtfully, and prune regularly to keep them looking their best.
- Pet-Friendly Options: Choose non-toxic plants like Boston Ferns and Areca Palms to ensure a safe environment for pets.
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Prevent overwatering, provide sufficient light, and inspect plants for pests to maintain healthy growth.
With these tips and ideas, you’re ready to create a stunning collection of hanging plants that brighten your space and make your home feel more alive.
Learn more: Best Indoor Plants for Small Spaces: Big Impact Tiny Footprint!
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