Hanging plants are one of the easiest ways to add greenery to small spaces without sacrificing valuable floor area. By drawing the eye upward, they help rooms feel larger while bringing natural color, texture, and movement into your home.
Whether you live in an apartment, studio, dorm room, or simply want to make better use of vertical space, the right hanging plants can transform windows, shelves, corners, and empty walls into attractive focal points.
This guide highlights some of the best hanging plants for small spaces, including easy-care varieties that thrive indoors and help create a lush, inviting atmosphere without adding clutter.
What You’ll Learn
- Why hanging plants work especially well in apartments and compact rooms
- The best hanging plant varieties for small indoor spaces
- How to use vertical space without making a room feel crowded
- Low-maintenance hanging plants that are easy to grow indoors
- Simple placement ideas for windows, corners, shelves, and ceilings
Quick Answer
The best hanging plants for small spaces include String of Pearls, Spider Plants, Pothos, English Ivy, Boston Ferns, Burro’s Tail, Hoyas, Heartleaf Philodendrons, String of Hearts, Maidenhair Ferns, Tradescantia, Inch Plants, Peperomia Hope, Golden Pothos, and Asparagus Ferns. Hanging and trailing plants let you use vertical space while keeping floors, tables, and counters open. The best choice depends on the light, humidity, and growing conditions available in your home.
Hanging Plants for Small Spaces at a Glance
| Plant | Light | Growth Style | Good For |
|---|---|---|---|
| String of Pearls | Bright indirect | Trailing succulent | Bright windows and hanging baskets |
| Spider Plant | Moderate to bright indirect | Arching and cascading | Easy-care hanging displays |
| Pothos | Low to bright indirect | Trailing vine | Shelves, baskets, and smaller rooms |
| English Ivy | Bright indirect | Trailing vine | Baskets and wall displays |
| Boston Fern | Indirect | Full and arching | Humid rooms and full baskets |
| Burro’s Tail | Bright indirect | Trailing succulent | Bright hanging displays |
| Hoya | Bright indirect | Trailing or climbing | Decorative baskets and shelves |
| Heartleaf Philodendron | Low to moderate indirect | Trailing vine | Baskets, shelves, and corners |
| String of Hearts | Bright indirect | Fine trailing vines | Small hanging displays |
| Maidenhair Fern | Indirect | Soft and arching | Humid indoor spaces |
| Tradescantia | Bright indirect | Fast-growing trailer | Colorful hanging displays |
| Inch Plant | Bright indirect | Trailing | Quickly filling baskets |
| Peperomia Hope | Bright indirect | Compact trailing | Tight spaces and small baskets |
| Golden Pothos | Low to bright indirect | Trailing vine | Easy-care vertical displays |
| Asparagus Fern | Indirect | Feathery and arching | Soft, full hanging displays |
Quick Tip: Hanging a plant higher does not automatically give it more usable light. Check how much light actually reaches the leaves before choosing a location. In a small room, a hanging basket several feet from a window can receive much less light than one positioned close to the window.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
- 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: Add a humidifier when indoor humidity is genuinely too low.
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)
Historically, the plant was once named Pothos aureus. 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.
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.
Use naturally humid locations where appropriate, grouping may create a modest local effect, and use a humidifier when meaningful humidity control is needed.
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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.
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.
Pet-Friendly Hanging Plants
If you have cats or dogs, choosing pet-friendly hanging plants can make plant placement a little easier. Hanging baskets may keep plants above floor level, but curious cats can still reach surprising places, so I prefer to check a plant’s pet safety before bringing it into the home.
Several attractive hanging plants are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA, including:
Spider Plant
Spider Plants are one of my favorite choices for hanging baskets. Their long arching leaves and plantlets naturally cascade over the sides of the pot, and the ASPCA lists Spider Plants as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Boston Fern
Boston Ferns create a full, lush hanging display with fronds that arch over the sides of the basket. They prefer more consistent moisture and humidity than many easy-care houseplants, and the ASPCA lists Boston Ferns as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Peperomia
Peperomias are another good option for homes with pets. Trailing types such as Peperomia Hope work especially well in smaller hanging baskets and shelves where you want greenery without a large plant taking over the space.
Pet Safety: A plant being listed as non-toxic does not mean you should encourage your pet to chew on it. Eating plant material can still cause digestive upset. Before adding a new houseplant, check the specific plant on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants List, especially since common plant names can sometimes be confusing.
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.
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.
Best Hanging Plants for Small Spaces FAQs
What are the best hanging plants for small spaces?
Some of the best hanging plants for small spaces include Pothos, Spider Plants, Heartleaf Philodendrons, String of Hearts, Peperomia Hope, Hoyas, Tradescantia, and String of Pearls. The best choice depends on the light, humidity, and amount of room available for trailing growth.
What hanging plants are easiest for beginners?
Pothos and Spider Plants are two good places to start. They are adaptable indoor plants and their trailing or arching growth makes them naturally suited to hanging baskets. Heartleaf Philodendrons can also work well when you can provide the right growing conditions.
What hanging plants work in lower light?
Pothos and Heartleaf Philodendrons can tolerate lower indoor light than many hanging plants. However, low light does not mean no light. Plants growing farther from a window may need to be moved closer to natural light or given supplemental lighting.
Where should I hang plants in a small room?
Good locations include near windows, in unused corners, beside shelving, or anywhere vertical space is available without blocking walkways. Choose the location based on the plant’s light needs first, then consider how the hanging basket fits into the room.
How do I water hanging plants without making a mess?
I like to check the growing medium before watering rather than watering on a fixed schedule. If the basket is difficult to water where it hangs, take it down, water it thoroughly, let excess water drain, and then return it to its usual location.
Do hanging plants need more humidity?
It depends on the plant. Pothos, Spider Plants, Hoyas, and many other common houseplants usually adapt well to normal household conditions, while Boston Ferns and Maidenhair Ferns appreciate higher humidity. If your home is too dry for humidity-loving plants, a humidifier is a more effective way to raise humidity than relying on misting alone.
What pet-friendly plants work well in hanging baskets?
Spider Plants, Boston Ferns, and some Peperomias are useful options for homes with cats or dogs. Always check the specific plant on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants List because common plant names can sometimes cause confusion.
How do I keep hanging plants from taking over a small space?
Prune long vines and trailing stems when they begin interfering with furniture, windows, or walkways. Regular trimming can also encourage fuller growth and lets you control the size and shape of the plant instead of allowing it to overwhelm a small room.
Best Hanging Plants for Small Spaces: Final Thoughts
Hanging plants are one of my favorite ways to add more greenery when floor and table space is limited. Instead of squeezing another plant stand into the room, you can use windows, corners, shelves, and other vertical spaces that might otherwise go unused.
The important thing is choosing the plant for the conditions you actually have. Pothos, Spider Plants, Heartleaf Philodendrons, Hoyas, ferns, succulents, and the other plants in this guide all have different needs. Consider the available light, humidity, watering needs, and how much room the plant will eventually need as it trails.
You don’t need a ceiling full of hanging baskets to make a small room feel greener. One well-placed hanging plant can soften an empty corner, bring life to a window, or add another layer of greenery without taking away usable living space.
Start with a plant that fits your home and put it where it can grow well. Once you see how it develops in that spot, you can always add another hanging plant later. That’s an easy way to build a plant-filled small space without making the room feel crowded.
Explore More Plants for Small Spaces
Looking for more ways to grow and decorate with plants when space is limited? Start with the complete guide, then explore these related small-space plant ideas.
Start Here:
Best Indoor Plants for Small Spaces: Big Impact Tiny Footprint!
- Best Indoor Hanging Plants for Low Light and Small Spaces
- Best Plants for Small Apartments
- Plant Shelf Ideas for Small Spaces
- Indoor Plants for Small Bedrooms
- Small Space Plant Decor Ideas
- Best Indoor Trees for Small Spaces
Browse More Hanging Plants:
References
- University of Minnesota Extension – Lighting for Indoor Plants and Starting Seeds
- University of Illinois Extension – Houseplants
- Iowa State University Extension – How to Care for Houseplants
- ASPCA – Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants List
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