Hanging Plants for Indoors – Top 29 Best Plants You Can Hang

Hanging indoor gardens. Nothing beats a hanging basket that lends an exotic touch to any home with cascades of colorful fragrant flowers. A hanging basket brightens dark corners, makes the breeze sweet, stark corners soft – even lightens a heavy heart.

Hanging basket plants are not only easy to care for but they are also very aesthetically pleasing. You can play with different colors, shapes, textures, forms and sizes to create a coherent basket for the room setting of your choice.

Smaller trailing plants, tender perennials, and annuals are destined to be kept in a hanging basket. What follows is a list of 29 ideal hanging plants for indoors.

Stay till the end to learn how you can make a hanging basket and take proper care of it.

TIP 1: With a hanging basket, make sure that you’ve accounted for drainage and support the display with wires, strings or ropes because a full hanging basket can be quite heavy.

Low-Maintenance Hanging Plants for Indoors

29 Best Plants

1. Achimenes – Hot-Water Plant

The cultivated species of Achimenes are pretty and very versatile, so they make great hanging plants. They flower from mid-summer to early autumn in shades of purple, blue, violet, and pink.

They have been traditionally grown on cottage window sills and it was thought for a long time that they should be watered with hot water, hence the common name, but room temperature water is preferable.

Some of the most popular cultivars are “Red Admiral“, “Moonstone“ and “Tiger Eye“. Another variety that’s easy to grow is “Purple King“, “Queen of Sheba“ and a violet-blue variety called “Cattleya“.

Position achimenes next to a sunny window sill, but shade it from the midday sun or leaves will become brown-spotted.

Water using soft water and feed until the plant starts dying down. When that happens, stop watering and take off dead leaves and stems. Make sure that the temperature is around 18 degrees C.

2. Rhipsalis Baccifera – Mistletoe Cactus

This is a succulent plant though it certainly doesn’t look like one. It has long and grass-like leaves which make the plant great for a hanging planter.

Maintain room temperature between 18 and 24 degrees C, provide bright, indirect light, water when the top 3 cm of compost is dry. Don’t let the plant sit in soggy and wet soil.

If temperatures fluctuate or you change your plant’s location when in bud, the buds may drop. To prevent that, move your plant when it is in early bud, not later.

3. Campanula Isophylla – Italian Bellflower

This is a pretty, trailing form differently called falling stars or Italian bellflower, given that it originates from northern Italy.

It has star-shaped flowers that are produced throughout summer and autumn usually violet-blue in color. The two common species are C. isophylla “Alba“ and C. “Balchiniana“.

The foliage is bright green and if stems are broken, they exude a distinctive smell and a milky white sap.

Provide indirect sunlight, normal room temperature with the winter minimum of 7 degrees C, keep thoroughly moist during spring and fall and give regular liquid fertilizer every two weeks up to late fall.

4. Begonia Thelmae

Trailing-scandent begonias like this species are a perfect way to impress your visitors with big, beautiful hanging-basket displays. This one was named after begonia enthusiast Thelma O’Reilly.

They make ideal plants for both indoors and outdoors because they cascade downward with a stunning array of white or pink flowers.

The leaf blades are brownish green, burgundy beneath with pale green veins and the flowers are bisexual.

It requires a shady, humid environment and it is easily grown from cuttings in the fall.

5. Hedera Helix – English Ivy

This is an interesting plant that has almost star-shaped leaves with yellow markings along the edges. It is a trailing plant that should be used as an attractive addition to a colder room.

Place it in a cool room, provide indirect light, feed and water it from spring to autumn and keep the compost moist but not wet.

Mist the plant on warm days. If it has spindly growth, the room is too warm.

This one is very rewarding to care for because it also helps to purify the air.

6. Tradescantia Zebrina – Silver-Inch Plant

This is an unfussy, variegated plant extremely easy to care for and looks so stunning in a hanging planter.

It has lanceolate and fleshy silver and green striped leaves pointed at the tip which are purple when young and the undersides remain purple as they mature. Small pinkish-purple flowers appear throughout the year.

Variegation is what makes this plant unique and if yours doesn’t have variegated leaves, your plant isn’t getting enough sunlight. Remove unvariegated leaves and find a brighter location.

Maintain room temperature between 12 and 24 degrees C and remove any shoots that have plain green leaves that put a damper on the plant’s attractiveness.

7. Setcreasea Pallida

This a popular annual with purple and succulent stems and purple leaves and a drooping habit that makes it suitable for a hanging basket.

Pink flowers appear in the place where the two leaves cross and although they are not conspicuous, they add to the beauty of the plant.

It prefers bright light and evenly moist soil. To propagate it, take tip cuttings.

8. Nematanthus Gregarious – Goldfish Plant

This plant has small shiny leaves and diminutive orange flowers that resemble small goldfish, hence its name.

It has cascading properties that make it ideal for hanging baskets and that’s usually how it is sold in its natural habitat in Brazil.

Provide bright light such as an east-facing window. Keep it evenly moist to prevent leaf drop. Don’t overwater it by any means.

Propagate from stem cuttings and provide a fast-draining medium. 

9. Columnea Stavanger

This is an exotic-looking plant with red-lipped blooms and deep green oval leaves.

Provide bright light and, as with most plants, allow the top surface to dry out slightly. Trim the plant regularly to prevent it from becoming leggy.

It is a tender variety that likes partial shade and a minimum winter temperature of above 8 degrees C.

10. Davallia Fejeensis – Rabbit’s Foot Fern

It is fairly easy to recognize this plant because it bears small, hairy leaves attached to stalks that emerge from the rhizomes and they cascade over the basket.

This plant requires bright indirect light, moist soil, a well-drained potting mix, a diluted fertilizer until the late fall and regular humidity.

11. Senecio Radicans – String of Bananas

Now, this is a unique trailing succulent that bears tiny green succulent leaves that resemble bananas.

It is a fast grower and easy to care for. Provide partial shade, water sparingly and propagate it by taking cuttings.

It can be toxic to humans and animals alike, so be careful when you are working with this plant.

12. Saxifraga Stolonifera – Mother of Thousands

This attractive, trailing plant has green veined leaves with reddish undersides. The shape of the leaves is round and the venation is cream, extremely prominent.

Place it in a cool to moderate room beside an east-facing window, avoid direct sunlight, water freely from spring to autumn and provide a higher level of humidity.

Provide a free-draining potting mix and avoid watering the plantlets and droplets on the foliage and allow the soil to dry.

If the leaves are turning brown, this is owing to a lack of water or humidity and if the leaves develop brown patches, the reason behind it is sunburn.

13. Philodendron Scandens – Sweetheart Plant

This plant has large, glossy green leaves that are darker green in the center. It is a mid-sized plant that helps to purify indoor air. It is native to Mexico and Brazil.

It performs best in medium light, average temperatures and moist soil. Don’t forget to take care of the leaves by wiping them with a damp cloth.

Wear protective gloves when you work with this plant since all parts of it are toxic.

14. Ficus Pumila – Creeping Fig

Two varieties are ideal for hanging baskets, Ficus pumila “Snowflake“ and  “Sonny“. Both of them are trailing plants that fall beautifully down a hanging basket. 

Although it is fairly easy to grow, if not watered regularly the foliage will soon dry out. You can also mist the plant every two days during summer. Water sparingly in winter.

Moreover, provide light shade and low humidity.

15. Senecio Rowleyanus – String of Pearls

The stems of this one bear little pea-like leaves that look like strings of pearls, making it an intriguing plant.

It is good for beginners since the fleshy parts of the plant retain water, so it will sail through a short period of neglect.

Feed with a half-strength balanced fertilizer and use cactus compost. Provide filtered light and low humidity.

16. Fuchsia

The fuchsias are some of the most attractive and space-reviving flowering basket plants and among the easiest to grow.

They were named after Leonhart Fuchs, a German botanist and many varieties come from Central and South America as well as New Zealand.

Pointed, rosy pink petals surround a tubular center of purple, rose, red and pink petals. The flowers dangle from the shoots and have a pendulous habit, so that’s why hanging baskets make a perfect display where the flowers can be looked up.

Some of the most outstanding species are “Ballet Girl“ and white and deep purple “Marine Glow“.

They need a spot with a little shade and a good deal of humidity in summer, so you can spray the bark and the leaves. Do not let the temperature drop below 4 degrees C.

17. Adiantum – Maidenhair Fern

This is not a typical type of fern, but the clue to recognizing them is the underside of the leaves of adult plants that contain the fern spores. Don’t confuse them with scale insects.

Adiantum capillus-veneris grows quite well in a cool to moderate temperatures and the majority of them are native to Europe, Africa, Brazil and so does Adiantum raddianum, a plant with delicate foliage especially fond of a humid environment of any bathroom.

All varieties require lots of humidity for their delicate fronds or else they turn brown at the edges and wither within a day or two. Mist them daily and provide humidifiers.

Also, provide a good amount of light without draughts and a minimum winter temperature of 7 degrees C. Use soft water and feed occasionally while growing.

18. Aeschynanthus spp. – Lipstick Plants

This jaw-dropping plant has glossy green leaves and protruding red flowers that look like red lipsticks poking out of their tubes, hence its very name.

If you prefer some other varieties of a red lipstick, Aeschynanthus radicans has cherry-red flowers and A. speciosus has larger orange flowers.

Grow it in an eastern or western window since it needs bright indirect light to bloom well.  You won’t have to worry about draughts since this plant is drought-tolerant.

However, it is sensitive to cold water which can cause leaf spot. To prevent it, water the soilless and well-draining mixture only when it feels half dry.

19. Chlorophytum Comosum – Spider Plant, Airplane Plant

Spider plants have been popular since the Victorian era all the way to today and that is no wonder since they add a fun and fresh element to any room, especially when paired with vintage furnishings.

Ths Spider plant has long and narrow deep green leaves pointed at the tips. What makes it unique, however, is the ability to self-propagate, which means that the plant forms tiny babies on the ends of stalks which you can leave on the plant or root them into soil.

It performs best in bright indirect to medium light and a quality all-purpose potting mix. Allow soil to dry out all the way down between waterings.

There is a variegated form called Chlorophytym comosum variegatum and it is the most common variety with its grass-like leaves with a central white bend.

It helps to purify the air.

20. Hoya – Wax Plants

A hanging basket is the most appealing display for these vining plants where their foliage and fragrant star-shaped flowers can be admired from all angles.

The options are endless and you can go for Hoya australis that not only looks stunning but helps to purify the air, Hoya bella whose central crowns resemble the most beautiful purple amethyst, Hoya carnosa compacta whose foliage has a rope-like appearance, Hoya pubicalyx that has deep green succulent leaves and purple and slightly hairy flowers.

Other varieties that make great hanging baskets are Hoya obovata, Hoya curtisii,  Hoya polyneura and Hoya kentiana that has skinny leaves that cascade over the rim of the pot, so it is an ideal small hanging basket candidate.

Whatever species you go for, you can’t make a wrong choice. Wax plants are found throughout Asia, New Guinea and Australia which got their common name thanks to their waxy leaves and flowers.

Wax plants perform best in bright, indirect light and in a soilless mix. A pinch of slow-release fertilizer manufactured for indoor plants will also do them a world of good.

Provide a warm environment and, while some species can handle slightly cooler temperatures, the majority won’t handle frost.

Water these drought-tolerant species when the top inch of soil feels dry. New flowers will form on the existing spurs, so refrain from removing them after the growing season.

21. Asparagus Fern

They usually come from South Africa, but they do not need a lot of heat and normal temperatures in summer are satisfactory. They can do with both shade and light.

The two ideal ferns, needle-like species are Asparagus Setaceus and A. densiflorus. Ferns are unique in that they require shade, since they grow in woods and forests in their native regions, sheltered by trees, rocks and banks.

So, this means that they will grow in the most unlikely corners. However, they require a moist atmosphere and humidity is an important factor for them. Hence bathrooms are ideal homes for them.

Display the Asparagus “Fern“ against a light background and they will add another dimension to any room.

Provide plenty of water in summer and sparing amounts in winter. Feed during summer to produce thriving plants.

22. Nephrolepis Exhalata – Ladder Fern, Boston Fern

This is a graceful fern deservedly popular and extremely easily grown, leathery and elegant looking, especially when displayed in a hanging basket.

It needs warmth at all times and a minimum winter temperature of at least 10 degrees C. In addition, they need acid compost, soft water, a good deal of humidity and light (even a little shade) and steady warmth.

Feed using a liquid fertilizer every two weeks from mid-summer with a nitrogen fertilizer.

It thrives in a room with high humidity, making it an ideal option for a bathroom.

23. Rhipsalis spp. – Mistletoe Cacti

Who’d tell that this little deceiving species is a cactus, right? They are named so because their flowers are accompanied by tiny red or white berries that resemble mistletoe.

Their smooth or hairy, pencil-thick or really thin stems photosynthesize and decorative berries linger on them for around one year.

They also require a soilless mix and indirect light. Water when the top inch becomes dry to the touch. Be wary of an inadequate watering regime since too much or too little water will cause them to drop pieces of stem.

24. Epiphyllum spp. – Orchid Cacti

The appearance of this species can vary-some are flat, some have spines and others don’t. Those that have a trailing habit are suitable for growing in hanging baskets, unlike upright varieties.

This species is also native to the rainforest but they are well suited to indirect indoor light. They are drought tolerant but they need more water than desert cacti. Provide soilless mix to make it happy and the plant will stop you in your tracks.

25. Epipremnum Aureum – Jade Pothos, Devil’s Ivy

This is a fast-growing plant that climbs easily and you can train it to stretch across the wall in the desired pattern. They are most commonly sold as hanging plants and are ideal for beginners.

The leaves are glossy and green and can grow to be very large and will take on a new shape as they mature and develop splits and holes. It produces long stems with large heart-shaped leaves that add a tropical note.

It is virtually indestructible, so you don’t have to put much effort into it. Provide light shade, room temperature of between 15 and 24 degrees C, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly up to autumn.

Bear in mind that all parts of this plant are toxic, but luckily it will be out of reach so your pets and children will be safe.

It prefers bright to medium indirect light, rich potting mixture and adequate watering since the leaves will look soft and droopy in the case of underwatering.

Its care pattern is similar to Satin Pothos.

26. Acalypha Hispida – Chenille Plant, Fox Tail

This fuzzy red plant adds interests to any hanging basket. It has green leaves prominently veined and long, fuzzy red flowers that looks like a fox’s tail, hence the name.

It performs best in zones 9 and 10. It requires plenty of light and humidity indoors. Misting will help.

27. Scindapsus Pictus ‘Exotica’ – Satin Pothos

Although this plant is often referred to as a pothos, it doesn’t belong to the same genus as pothos plants (Epipremnum).

The silvery, sage green colors make the plant stand out among other green-hanging plants-the contrast is truly stunning.

It is tolerant of medium light, but make sure that the potting mix is well-draining and enriched with perlite, orchid bark or coco coir chips.

A healthy watering regime is vital since the leaves will begin to curl in the case of underwatering.

28. Begonia Solananthera

This species has long trailing stems, waxy leaves and will produce attractive flowers for many months if kept in the right conditions.

Choose a bright position away from direct sunlight and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Provide airflow to prevent powdery mildew.

Learn how to speak the language of plants and you will enjoy their luxurious foliage in the comfort of your home.

29. Ceropegia Linearis subsp. Woodii – String of Hearts

This plant has thread-like stems and tiny heart-shaped leaves that rumble over the basket, hence the name.  Display it high enough so that the long stems can trail down and so you can admire the patterned leaves.

The leaves of String of Hearts are grey and green with purple undersides. Flowers appear in summer and they are small and pink.

Keep room temperatures between 8 and 24 degrees C, provide filtered light and moderate humidity and this plant will inject color into your living space.  

TIP 2: If you find taking the display down to water it a hussle, use a watering wand or plastic, clay or wood wire rigs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

One way you can instantly transform your home is by embellishing it with hanging baskets- sheer attention-getting leafy and flowery elements. Hanging baskets are just one of the myriad display ideas for plants, yet the most effective one.

With them, you will have the chance to observe globes of flowers and foliage throughout summer and enjoy their compelling fragrance and enjoy beautiful mornings and equally pleasant evenings.

You don’t need magic to keep plants healthy and happy. All you need is truly knowing what your plants need and selecting the ones that best suit your home, lifestyle and personality and plants will give you a necessary connection to the natural world.

DIY IDEA: You can make a plant hanger from a recycled t-shirt by cutting the body of it into stripes and gathering them all together. Alternatively, you can make Macramé plant hangers.