10 Best Low Light Hanging Plants
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Greenery is essential for livening up any indoor space, but not all of us are blessed with sun-drenched rooms just begging for a monstera to reach its phototropic peak.
For those dimmer corners that crave a spot of life, low-light indoor hanging plants are the answer.
The gentle tendrils and cascading leaves don’t just look nice in your decor—they also help clean the air and boost your mood.
Here are ten champions of plant decor that don’t shy away from the shadows!
1. Pothos
King of Versatility
Pothos, or Devil’s Ivy, is a quintessential low-light houseplant known for its heart-shaped, glossy leaves.
This vine plant is virtually indestructible, adapting to a variety of conditions. It’s one of those plants that fare just as well in bright, indirect light as it does in almost full darkness.
Hang the plant where its vines can trail down or use its aerial roots to climb a moss pole for added visual interest.
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Pothos flourishes in a variety of light conditions, from low light to bright, indirect light. However, too much direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, while too little light may reduce the variegation in its foliage.
Water when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so it’s crucial to ensure the pot has adequate drainage. Pothos is drought-tolerant, making it forgiving if you occasionally forget to water.
Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring and summer). In autumn and winter, reduce feeding as the plant’s growth slows down.
Pruning can encourage fuller growth and keep the plant at a manageable size. Simply trim back any long tendrils with sterile scissors to promote branching.
It’s important to note that Pothos is toxic to pets and humans if ingested.
2. Spider Plant
Air-Cleansing Champion
The Spider Plant is a low-light favourite with its arching leaves and plantlets that dangle like spiders on a web.
It is not only one of the easiest plants to grow but also tops the charts for its air-purifying capabilities, making it a perfect addition to your home or office.
Its adaptable nature means it will thrive in various environments, from bright, indirect light to near shade.
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Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, so it’s best to avoid placing it in a spot where it will be exposed to harsh sunlight for extended periods.
Keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season (spring and summer) but allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering. In the cooler months, reduce watering but do not let the soil become completely dry.
While it can tolerate less humid conditions, the Spider Plant appreciates a bit of extra humidity. Occasional misting or placing it on a pebble tray with water can help meet this need, especially in drier indoor environments.
Use a balanced liquid fertiliser every month during the spring and summer. Reduce feeding to every other month during autumn and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.
Prefers to be slightly root-bound, so repotting every 2-3 years is generally sufficient. When repotting, choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overly spacious conditions that can lead to waterlogging.
One of the joys of caring for a Spider Plant is propagating its pups. Once they have developed a few roots, they can be cut from the mother plant and potted individually to grow new plants.
Enjoys moderate temperatures, between 60°F and 80°F. It’s important to protect it from extreme cold, so keep it away from drafty windows in the winter.
3. Snake Plant
The Minimalist’s Dream
Also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, the Snake Plant is popular for its striking architectural structure and its ability to tolerate neglect and low light.
With its sword-shaped leaves that stand stiffly upright, it makes an interesting centrepiece or addition to a collection of hanging plants.
It’s a great plant to have around as it’s known for absorbing toxins from the air.
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Thrives in a range of light conditions, from low to bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight but is best kept in places where the light is filtered to avoid scorching its leaves.
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to completely dry out between waterings. The Snake Plant stores water in its leaves, making it highly drought-tolerant.
Prefers well-draining soil. A potting mix designed for cacti or succulents is ideal, providing the proper drainage that Snake Plants require.
This gorgeous plant has no special humidity requirements, making it well-suited for typical home and office environments. Unlike many houseplants, it does not need frequent misting.
Enjoys temperatures between 55°F and 85°F, which covers most indoor environments. It’s not frost-tolerant, so it should be kept away from drafty windows and doors during the colder months.
Fertilise sparingly, as the Snake Plant is not a heavy feeder. A balanced, liquid fertiliser can be applied at half-strength a few times during the spring and summer months.
4. Boston Fern
The Victorian Classic
The Boston Fern, scientifically known as Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Bostoniensis’, is a lush, classic houseplant that enjoys widespread popularity due to its graceful, arching green fronds
It has a delicate appearance with its feathery, lace-like fronds that can spread up to four feet.
It enjoys higher humidity and does exceptionally well in bathrooms with a light shower every so often.
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Direct sun can scorch its delicate fronds, while too little light can cause sparse growth and shedding. A north-facing window or a spot that receives filtered light through a sheer curtain is ideal.
Keeping the soil consistently moist is key to a happy Boston Fern. It does not like to dry out, so watering it thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch will help maintain the proper moisture level.
This fern loves humidity. In dry indoor environments, increasing humidity can be achieved by placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water or using a humidifier.
During the growing season (spring and summer), feeding your Boston Fern with a diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser once a month can promote lush growth. Reduce feeding in autumn and winter when growth naturally slows.
Prefers average room temperatures, between 60°F and 75°F. Avoid placing it near drafts, heating vents, or air conditioning units, as sudden temperature changes can be stressful.
5. Heartleaf Philodendron
The Sweetheart of Low-Light
The Heartleaf Philodendron’s heart-shaped, dark green leaves cascade in long tendrils, making it an eye-catching addition to any room.
It’s another vine that can easily be trained to climb or hang.
It’s virtually indestructible and can tolerate being left alone for long periods, ideal for busy plant lovers.
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Prefers moderate to bright, indirect sunlight but is remarkably adaptable and can tolerate low light conditions.
Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Heartleaf Philodendrons prefer to be on the drier side rather than waterlogged, which means overwatering can lead to root rot.
Enjoys a moderately humid environment but is quite tolerant of average household humidity levels.
Fertilise once a month during the growing season (spring through summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser, diluted to half the recommended strength.
To maintain its shape or encourage more dense growth, periodic pruning of any leggy stems can be beneficial.
Prefers average room temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. Avoid placing your Heartleaf Philodendron in drafts or near heating and cooling vents, as extreme temperature changes can stress the plant.
6. ZZ Plant
Low Light Superstar
The ZZ Plant is virtually indestructible, and its enthusiastic growth even in the darkest corners makes it popular in the interior-scaping world.
Its shiny, dark green leaves that almost look painted on require very little maintenance, and it’ll tolerate a variety of conditions, including low light, making it a top choice for hanging pots in dim areas.
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Direct sunlight can damage its leaves, so it’s best placed in locations where sunlight is filtered or indirect.
The ZZ Plant is drought tolerant, requiring water only when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Thrives in temperatures above 55°F, making it well-suited to most indoor environments. It’s important to protect it from cold drafts and extreme temperature changes.
Its versatility in light tolerance allows for various placement options, from office corners with fluorescent lighting to brighter spots near windows with indirect light.
It’s crucial to note that the ZZ Plant is toxic if ingested, so it should be kept out of reach of pets and children. Handling the plant with gloves is recommended if you have sensitive skin.
7. English Ivy
The Romantic Trailblazer
English Ivy is known for its romantic, cascading tendrils and the fact that it can easily cover a lot of ground (or wall) with the right encouragement.
It’s a traditional favourite for hanging baskets, with its variegated or all-green leaves adding a splash of colour to your indoor landscape even in low-light settings.
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Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate medium to low light conditions. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, especially during the hot summer months, to prevent leaf scorch.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
English Ivy benefits from a moderately humid environment. If the air in your home is dry, consider using a humidifier or regularly misting the plant to increase humidity levels.
Thrives in cooler temperatures, between 50°F and 70°F.
Feed with a general-purpose liquid fertiliser about once a month during the growing season (spring through autumn). Reduce feeding in the winter months when growth slows down.
Regular pruning can help control its growth and maintain the desired shape. It also encourages fuller, denser foliage.
Be vigilant about pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs, which can be attracted to English Ivy. Regularly inspect the plant and treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
If you wish for your ivy to climb, provide a trellis or moss stick for support. Training the vines early on can help achieve a more controlled growth pattern.
8. Chinese Evergreen
The Decor Queen
The Chinese Evergreen, with its leathery, variegated foliage, is a top pick for those wanting a pop of colour in their low-light spaces.
This hardy plant comes in a variety of leaf patterns and colours and is perfect for adding an elegant touch to any room.
It’s one of the most durable houseplants you can have, surviving even the darkest corners.
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Prefers low to medium, indirect light. While it is tolerant of low-light conditions, brighter indirect light can enhance the colouration and patterns on its leaves.
Water the plant when the top inch or so of the soil feels dry to the touch. Chinese Evergreen is somewhat drought-tolerant, but consistent over-watering can lead to root rot. Using lukewarm water is recommended to avoid shocking the plant.
Benefits from moderate to high humidity but can adapt to less humid environments typical of many homes. If your home is particularly dry, especially in winter, occasional misting or a humidity tray can help.
Fertilise lightly with a balanced, liquid fertiliser during the growing season (spring through summer). In the autumn and winter, reduce fertilisation as the plant’s growth slows down.
Prefers well-draining soil and should be repotted every two to three years or when it becomes root-bound. A standard potting mix with added perlite for improved drainage is suitable.
Thrives in temperatures between 65°F and 80°F. It’s important to protect it from drafts and sudden temperature changes, which can stress the plant.
Note that the Chinese Evergreen is toxic to pets and humans if ingested.
9. String Of Pearls
Green Pearls of Envy
The String of Pearls, with its unique, bead-like leaves, has captivated the hearts of plant enthusiasts for its whimsical aesthetics and trailing growth.
It’s particularly celebrated for its ability to add some drama to indoor spaces, making it an ideal plant for hanging baskets where its strings of pearls can cascade beautifully.
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Prefers bright, indirect light.
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Enjoys warm conditions, ideally between 70°F and 80°F. It’s not frost-tolerant and should be kept away from drafts and cold windows in the winter.
It is toxic if ingested, so it’s essential to keep it out of reach of pets and children who might be tempted to nibble on its enticing leaves.
10. Staghorn Fern
Antlered Leafy Mount
The Staghorn Fern, named for its large, antler-like fronds, is a distinctive and visually striking plant that adds a touch of the exotic to any indoor space.
Unlike traditional potted plants, the Staghorn Fern thrives when mounted on a piece of wood or in a basket, mimicking its natural habit of growing on trees in the wild.
This epiphytic nature sets it apart from other ferns, making it a fascinating subject for indoor gardeners looking to introduce a piece of the rainforest into their homes.
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Too much direct sun can scorch its fronds, while too little light will inhibit growth. A north-facing window or a spot that receives filtered light is ideal.
Requires regular watering, but the frequency depends on the environment’s humidity levels. In dry conditions, soaking the entire plant (including the mount) in water once a week is beneficial. In more humid environments, less frequent watering may be needed. The key is to allow the plant to dry out slightly between waterings.
Enjoys high humidity, which can be supplemented by misting the plant regularly, especially in drier climates or during winter months when indoor heating can reduce humidity levels.
Benefits from occasional feeding during the growing season. A dilute, balanced liquid fertiliser can be applied monthly to support its growth.
When mounted, ensure there is enough space for the fronds to grow and that the mounting surface does not retain water, to prevent rot. Placing it in a bathroom or kitchen, where humidity tends to be higher, can also be beneficial.
Thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. It is sensitive to cold and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F.
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