Looking for the perfect greenery to brighten a dim corner? Our guide reveals the best indoor hanging plants for low light, making it simple to add life and color to any spot, no matter how little sun it gets. Transform your space with these resilient and beautiful plants!
Indoor Hanging Plants for Low Light: Your Essential Guide
Do you dream of lush, vibrant plants gracing your home, but sadly lack sunny windows? You’re not alone! Many beautiful homes have spaces that just don’t get much natural light, making traditional plant care a bit of a challenge. Don’t let dim corners get you down. With the right plant choices, you can bring the beauty of nature indoors, even where the sun doesn’t shine. We’ll guide you through selecting, caring for, and arranging the best indoor hanging plants perfect for low-light environments. Get ready to discover how easy it is to add a touch of green magic to every room!
Why Choose Hanging Plants for Low Light?
Hanging plants are fantastic for so many reasons, especially in homes with limited light or space. They draw the eye upwards, creating a sense of depth and making rooms feel larger. For those with busy lifestyles or curious pets and children, keeping plants out of reach can be a huge relief. And when it comes to low light, hanging plants offer a unique solution. By positioning them strategically, you can capture the available light more effectively than with plants on the floor or a table. Plus, their trailing vines can soften harsh architectural lines and add a cascading waterfall of greenery, bringing life and a touch of nature’s artistry to even the most overlooked areas.
Understanding Low Light Indoors
Before we dive into specific plant recommendations, let’s clarify what “low light” really means in an indoor setting. It’s not about total darkness! Most plants, even those tolerant of low light, need some ambient light to survive and thrive. Think of spaces that receive only indirect light throughout the day, or no direct sunlight whatsoever. This could be a room with north-facing windows, a spot far from any window, or a hallway. Artificial light can also supplement plant needs; for instance, a kitchen with only cabinet lighting might still be considered low light for many plants. Understanding your light levels will help you choose plants that will truly flourish rather than just survive.
Top Indoor Hanging Plants for Low Light
Finding plants that can handle less-than-ideal lighting conditions doesn’t mean you have to settle for dullness. Many stunning varieties not only tolerate low light but actually prefer it! Their natural habitats often include the forest floor or shaded undergrowth, making them perfectly adapted for our indoor, less-than-sunny spaces. Here are some of the best and brightest options:
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Often called Devil’s Ivy, Pothos is a champion of low-light conditions. Its heart-shaped leaves come in various variegations, from deep green to marbled with yellow or white. Pothos is incredibly forgiving and will let you know when it needs water by drooping slightly. It’s also very easy to propagate, meaning you can share your green thumb with friends!
- Light Needs: Tolerates very low light, but prefers bright, indirect light.
- Watering: Let the top inch or two of soil dry out between waterings.
- Variety: Golden Pothos, Marble Queen, Neon Pothos, Jade Pothos.
- Benefits: Air purifying, extremely resilient, fast-growing.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are a classic for a reason! Their arching, grass-like leaves often have white stripes, and they produce adorable “spiderettes” (baby plants) that hang down, creating a wonderful cascading effect. They are non-toxic and adaptable to a range of indoor conditions, including lower light.
- Light Needs: Partial shade to bright indirect light. Direct sun can scorch the leaves.
- Watering: Keep soil moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch is dry.
- Benefits: Air purifying, produces offsets (spiderettes) for easy propagation, safe for pets.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is a superhero for the forgetful or under-lit plant parent. Its glossy, dark green leaves store water, making it incredibly drought-tolerant. While it can handle very low light, it will grow more vigorously with some brighter indirect light. Its upright stems make it a less traditional “hanging” plant but its overall structure still works well when placed in a hanging basket.
- Light Needs: Thrives in low light, but also tolerates moderate to bright indirect light.
- Watering: Drought tolerant; water deeply only when soil is completely dry.
- Benefits: Extremely drought-tolerant, low maintenance, tolerates a wide range of conditions.
Philodendron (Heartleaf Philodendron – Philodendron hederaceum)
Similar in appearance to Pothos, the heartleaf philodendron boasts beautiful, deep green, heart-shaped leaves that cascade elegantly. It’s a forgiving plant that can tolerate lower light conditions, making it a popular choice for beginners. Its continuous growth provides a lovely, lush look over time.
- Light Needs: Low to medium indirect light. Avoid direct sun.
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Variety: Heartleaf Philodendron, Brasil (variegated), Micans (velvety, coppery leaves).
- Benefits: Air purifying, easy to care for, attractive foliage.
English Ivy (Hedera helix)
A classic for a reason, English Ivy’s trailing vines and lobed leaves add a touch of traditional elegance. While it prefers bright, indirect light, it can adapt to lower light situations, though its growth might be slower. It’s also known for its impressive air-purifying qualities, helping to remove toxins from your home.
- Light Needs: Prefers bright, indirect light but tolerates low light.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
- Considerations: Can be toxic to pets if ingested, and some varieties may be prone to spider mites in dry conditions.
- Benefits: Excellent air purifier, classic elegant look.
Chain of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii)
This succulent is uniquely charming with its trailing stems adorned with small, heart-shaped leaves. Each leaf has delicate markings in shades of green and purple. While it prefers brighter light to bloom and maintain its compact leaf formation, it can survive in lower light, though growth might become more sparse. It’s remarkably drought-tolerant.
- Light Needs: Best in bright, indirect light but will adapt to lower light.
- Watering: Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings; prone to rot if overwatered.
- Benefits: Unique appearance, very drought-tolerant.
Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
While often grown for their stunning, intricately patterned leaves, prayer plants are also known for their unique behavior: their leaves fold up at night, resembling praying hands. They prefer low to medium indirect light and consistent moisture, making them a good choice for humid bathrooms or kitchens away from direct sun where they can add exotic beauty.
- Light Needs: Low to medium indirect light. Direct sun will scorch leaves.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
- Benefits: Striking foliage, interesting leaf movement, air purifying.
Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidum)
The Bird’s Nest Fern is a tropical beauty with striking, wavy, bright green fronds that unfurl from a central rosette, resembling a bird’s nest. It thrives in low to medium indirect light and high humidity, making it perfect for bathrooms or north-facing rooms. Avoid getting water in the center of the “nest,” as this can lead to rot.
- Light Needs: Low to medium indirect light.
- Watering: Keep soil lightly moist; mist occasionally to increase humidity.
- Benefits: Unique texture and form, excellent for humid environments.
Low Light Hanging Plant Care Essentials
Even the hardiest low-light plant needs a little TLC to truly thrive. Understanding their basic needs will prevent common problems and ensure your plants stay lush and vibrant. Here’s what you need to know:
Watering Wisely
This is where many beginners run into trouble, especially in low-light conditions. Plants in low light use water much slower than those in bright light. Overwatering is the quickest way to kill a plant in such conditions, leading to root rot. The golden rule: always check the soil moisture before watering.
- The Finger Test: Stick your finger about an inch or two into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it feels moist, wait a few more days and check again.
- Observe Your Plant: Wilting leaves can indicate thirst, but they can also signal overwatering (when roots are drowning). Brown, crispy leaf tips can sometimes mean dry air or inconsistent watering.
- Drainage is Key: Ensure all your hanging pots have drainage holes. If you’re using a decorative cache pot, always empty out any excess water that collects at the bottom.
Light Placement: Finding the Sweet Spot
While these plants are low-light tolerant, they still need some light. Avoid completely dark corners. A spot where light filters in, even weakly, or a room that receives a few hours of indirect light is ideal. North-facing windows are often perfect. If the only available spot is truly dim, consider supplementing with a small grow light. For more on choosing the right grow lights, resources from The Royal Horticultural Society can offer guidance on plant lighting needs.
Humidity Matters
Many popular low-light hanging plants originate from tropical environments, where humidity is high. Our homes, especially with heating and air conditioning, can be quite dry. To boost humidity:
- Mist your plants regularly with water.
- Place pots on a pebble tray filled with water (ensure the pot isn’t sitting directly in the water).
- Group plants together, as they release moisture into the air collectively.
- Consider a small humidifier, especially for kitchens and bathrooms.
Soil and Feeding
Use a well-draining potting mix. A general-purpose indoor potting soil is usually fine, but you can amend it with perlite or orchid bark for better aeration, especially for plants like ZZ or Chain of Hearts. Feed your low-light plants sparingly. They grow slower in less light, so they don’t need as much fertilizer. A diluted liquid fertilizer, once or twice during the spring and summer growing season, is usually sufficient. Avoid feeding in fall and winter when growth naturally slows.
Choosing and Installing Hanging Planters
The right planter can enhance your plant’s beauty and make installation a breeze. For hanging plants, consider these options:
- Material: Terracotta dries out faster, while plastic, ceramic, or glazed pots retain more moisture. Choose based on your plant’s watering needs and your environment.
- Size: Don’t choose a pot that’s too large. A plant that’s slightly root-bounded often blooms better and is less prone to overwatering issues.
- Hanging Mechanism: Macrame hangers, sturdy hooks screwed into ceiling joists or wall studs, or versatile plant stands with hanging arms are all great options.
DIY Hanging Basket Ideas
Get creative with your planters! You can repurpose common items into unique hanging containers.
- Tin Cans: Cleaned and decorated tin cans make excellent small planters. Ensure you drill drainage holes.
- Old Colanders: The holes provide natural drainage! Line with sphagnum moss or coco coir to hold the soil.
- Fabric Pouches: Heavy-duty canvas or felt can be sewn into simple hanging pouches.
Safe Installation is Crucial
Hanging plants securely is paramount to prevent accidents. Always install hooks into a ceiling joist or wall stud. For heavier plants, use heavy-duty anchors if a stud isn’t available. If you’re unsure, consult a handyman or do some research on proper installation techniques. For example, the This Old House website offers excellent guides on securely hanging items.
Common Problems and Solutions
Even with low-light plants, issues can arise. Here are a few common ones:
Yellowing Leaves
This is often a sign of overwatering in low-light conditions. Reduce watering frequency and ensure good drainage. If the lower leaves are yellowing and dropping, it might be natural aging; if it’s widespread, investigate watering and light.
Brown, Crispy Leaf Tips
This usually points to dry air or inconsistent watering. Increase humidity by misting or using a pebble tray. Ensure you are watering thoroughly, but only when the soil is dry.
Leggy Growth (Long Stems with Few Leaves)
This indicates the plant is stretching for more light. While it’s a low-light plant, it still needs some. Try moving it to a spot with slightly more ambient light, or consider a small grow light. You can also prune leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
Pests
Low-light plants can still attract pests like spider mites or mealybugs, especially if the air is dry. Inspect your plants regularly. Isolate affected plants and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Keeping humidity levels up often helps prevent spider mites.
Table: Low-Light Hanging Plant Comparison
Here’s a quick look at some popular low-light hanging plants, highlighting their key features:
| Plant Name | Best For | Watering Frequency | Light Preference | Ease of Care |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pothos | Beginners, air purifying | When top inch is dry | Very Low to Bright Indirect | Very Easy |
| Spider Plant | Beginners, pet-friendly, air purifying | When top inch is dry | Partial Shade to Bright Indirect | Easy |
| ZZ Plant | Forgetful owners, drought tolerance | When completely dry | Very Low to Moderate Indirect | Very Easy |
| Heartleaf Philodendron | Beginners, trailing foliage | When top inch is dry | Low to Medium Indirect | Easy |
| English Ivy | Air purifying, classic look | Consistently moist | Low to Bright Indirect | Moderate |
| Chain of Hearts | Unique succulent, drought tolerant | When completely dry | Low to Bright Indirect | Moderate |
| Prayer Plant | Unique foliage, humid spots | Consistently moist | Low to Medium Indirect | Moderate |
| Bird’s Nest Fern | Humid spots, unique texture | Lightly moist, humid air | Low to Medium Indirect | Moderate |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can any plant survive in a room with no windows at all?
While some plants are extremely tolerant of low light, no plant can survive in complete darkness indefinitely. They need some form of light, even if it’s artificial, to perform photosynthesis. If a room has absolutely no light, you’ll need to supplement with grow lights specifically designed for plants.
Q2: How often should I water a hanging plant in low light?
In low light, plants use water much more slowly. Instead of a schedule, always check the soil moisture first. Stick your finger about an inch or two into the soil. Water only when it feels dry. This might mean watering every 2-4 weeks, or even less often for very drought-tolerant plants like the ZZ plant.
Q3: My low-light hanging plant is losing leaves. What’s wrong?
Several things can cause leaf drop. Overwatering is a common culprit in low light, leading to root rot. Underwatering, especially if the plant is particularly dry, can also cause leaves to drop. Pests, sudden temperature changes, or a lack of light can also be factors. Carefully assess your watering habits, check for pests, and ensure the plant is
