If you’re looking to brighten up a shaded corner or add greenery to a space with limited natural light, low light hanging plants offer a stylish solution. The best picks combine easy care with resilience in low-light conditions, but they vary in maintenance needs and visual impact. The American Plant Exchange English Ivy stands out for its versatility, while succulents like the String of Pearls bring a modern touch with minimal watering. However, some plants may need more frequent pruning or are less forgiving for beginners. Keep reading to see how these options compare and find the perfect fit for your space.
Key Takeaways
- The top-ranking plants balance low light tolerance with ease of maintenance, making them suitable for busy or novice plant owners.
- Succulents excel in low light environments when placed carefully, but generally require well-draining soil and infrequent watering.
- Trailing plants like Pothos and Philodendrons offer versatility and air-purifying benefits, often outperforming more delicate varieties in shaded spots.
- Price points vary widely; premium options tend to offer higher durability and aesthetic appeal, but some budget-friendly plants deliver excellent value.
- Care requirements and growth habits significantly influence long-term satisfaction, with low-maintenance plants preferred for less attentive owners.
| American Plant Exchange English Ivy – 6-Inch Potted Trailing Vine, Low-Maintenance Indoor & Outdoor Houseplant |  | Best Overall for Low Light Hanging Plants | Plant Type: English Ivy | Size: 6-inch pot | Features: Trailing vine, air-purifying, pet-friendly | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Othonna Capensis Ruby Necklace Live Succulent Plants, 4-inch, Easy Care |  | Best for Bright Light with Unique Seasonal Color | Size: 4-inch pot | Plant Type: Succulent | Care Level: Easy | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Trailing Elephant Bush Succulents, Hanging Plants – Live Indoor & Outdoor Houseplants in Plant Basket |  | Best for Easy Care and Versatile Indoor/Outdoor Use | Plant Type: Trailing Elephant Bush | Pot Size: 6 inches | Plant Height: Trails | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| String of Pearls Succulent Plant – Live Hanging Basket with Real Succulents |  | Best for Elegant Trailing Look in Bright Indirect Light | Plant Type: Succulent | Species: Senecio rowleyanus | Watering Needs: Low | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ficus Repens Creeping Fig Indoor Plant, 6 Inch Nursery Pot |  | Best for Versatile Low-Light Trailing Decor | Plant Type: Indoor Houseplant | Growth Habit: Trailing, Creeping | Light Conditions: Bright indirect to low light | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brazil Philodendron Heartleaf Hanging Plant, Indoor Houseplant in Nursery Pot |  | Best Overall for Moderate Light Conditions | Plant Type: Philodendron Heartleaf | Size: 6-inch nursery pot | Height: 2-4 feet | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Tradescantia Nanouk Hanging Indoor Plant, 4 Inch Pot |  | Best for Colorful, Trailing Varieties in Bright Indirect Light | Plant Type: Hanging Indoor Plant | Pot Size: 4 Inches | Features: Air Purifying, Trailing, Easy Care | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Live Pothos Plants (4 Pack) Indoor Houseplants – Trailing Money Plant, Devil’s Ivy, Assorted Varieties |  | Best for Versatility and Low-Light Resilience | Quantity: 4 plants | Height: 8-10 inches | Varieties: Marble Queen, Silver Satin, Golden, Neon, Hawaiian | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Costa Farms Golden Pothos, Live Indoor Plant, Trailing Vine, Air Purifying |  | Best for Low to Bright Indirect Light and Infrequent Watering | Plant Type: Golden Pothos | Size: 10-inch hanging basket | Light Requirements: Low to bright indirect light | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Heartleaf Philodendron Brasil Hanging Plant – Indoor, Easy Care, Air Purifying |  | Best for Low-Light, Easy-Care Tropical Appeal | Plant Type: Hanging Indoor Plant | Size: 6-inch nursery pot | Height: 2-4 feet | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| low light hanging plant | Plant Type | Size | Light Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Plant Exchange Englis | English Ivy | 6-inch pot | Bright to low indirect light |
| Othonna Capensis Ruby Necklace | Succulent | 4-inch pot | Bright sunlight |
| Trailing Elephant Bush Succule | Trailing Elephant Bush | — | — |
| String of Pearls Succulent Pla | Succulent | — | Bright indirect light |
| Ficus Repens Creeping Fig Indo | Indoor Houseplant | — | — |
| Brazil Philodendron Heartleaf | Philodendron Heartleaf | 6-inch nursery pot | Moderate light |
| Tradescantia Nanouk Hanging In | Hanging Indoor Plant | — | — |
| Live Pothos Plants | — | — | — |
| Costa Farms Golden Pothos | Golden Pothos | 10-inch hanging basket | Low to bright indirect light |
| Heartleaf Philodendron Brasil | Hanging Indoor Plant | 6-inch nursery pot | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
American Plant Exchange English Ivy – 6-Inch Potted Trailing Vine, Low-Maintenance Indoor & Outdoor Houseplant
This English Ivy stands out for its adaptability and air-purifying qualities, making it an excellent choice for low-light spaces. Compared with the String of Pearls, it offers a more traditional trailing vine that requires less bright light, thriving in shaded indoor corners or outdoor shaded areas. Its fast growth and pet-friendly nature add to its versatility, though it may need support for trailing if placed in high-traffic spots. The minimal watering and hardy nature make it especially suitable for busy or forgetful plant parents. However, its need for some indirect light means it won’t flourish in absolute dark corners. This pick makes the most sense for those seeking a lush, easy-care vine that can adapt to various shaded environments.
Pros:- Low-maintenance and hardy, suitable for busy households
- Air-purifying and pet-friendly, adding health benefits
- Versatile for indoor and shaded outdoor use
Cons:- Requires support for trailing growth in some setups
- Needs some indirect light; won’t thrive in complete darkness
Best for: Indoor gardeners with low-light spaces who want a pet-friendly, air-purifying trailing plant
Not ideal for: Those expecting a trailing plant that performs well in complete darkness or very low indirect light, as it needs some ambient light to thrive
- Plant Type:English Ivy
- Size:6-inch pot
- Features:Trailing vine, air-purifying, pet-friendly
- Light Requirements:Bright to low indirect light
- Care:Occasional watering, hardy
Our verdict“This ivy is ideal for those who want a resilient, air-purifying hanging plant that tolerates low-light conditions.”
Othonna Capensis Ruby Necklace Live Succulent Plants, 4-inch, Easy Care
The Ruby Necklace offers a striking cascading look with its bead-like leaves that turn reddish in sunlight, making it a standout for bright, indirect light spaces. Compared to the String of Pearls, which prefers bright indirect light, this succulent adds seasonal color that can brighten shaded spots when grown indoors with sufficient light. Its drought-tolerance makes it extremely low-maintenance, though it requires plenty of sunlight to maintain the vibrant reddish hue, which could be a challenge in darker areas. Its seasonal growth variation adds visual interest but may lead to inconsistent fullness. This plant is best suited for those with sunny windows or outdoor shaded patios, but it’s less ideal for deep shade or low-light interiors.
Pros:- Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, ideal for busy lifestyles
- Unique cascading, seasonal reddish foliage adds visual interest
- Arrives fully rooted and ready to display
Cons:- Requires bright sunlight for vibrant color; dull light diminishes appearance
- Seasonal growth may affect fullness and shape, requiring pruning
Best for: Experienced plant enthusiasts who can provide bright, direct sunlight for seasonal color variation
Not ideal for: People with low-light indoor spaces or those who prefer consistently full, lush foliage without seasonal color changes
- Size:4-inch pot
- Plant Type:Succulent
- Care Level:Easy
- Light Requirements:Bright sunlight
- Watering:Water only when soil is dry
Our verdict“This succulent is perfect for those who can provide ample sun and appreciate seasonal color shifts, but less so for shaded indoor environments.”
Trailing Elephant Bush Succulents, Hanging Plants – Live Indoor & Outdoor Houseplants in Plant Basket
The Elephant Bush offers a hardy, low-maintenance trailing succulent that thrives with minimal care. Compared to String of Pearls, it is slightly more forgiving in lower light conditions, making it suitable for indoor spaces with indirect light or shaded outdoor areas. Its trailing habit makes it a flexible decor piece, whether hanging indoors or outdoors in warm climates. While it doesn’t require frequent watering, it needs sunlight to grow optimally, which might limit its performance in very dim settings. Its charm as a gift or wedding favor, coupled with a portion of proceeds supporting a cause, adds to its appeal. However, in cooler or less sunny environments, its growth might slow, or it may need support for trailing display.
Pros:- Minimal watering and easy to care for
- Supports indoor and outdoor shaded environments
- Makes a charming gift and supports a good cause
Cons:- Needs sunlight for best growth; less suitable in deep shade
- May require support for trailing display
Best for: Those seeking a low-maintenance, versatile trailing plant that can adapt to indoor and outdoor shaded spots
Not ideal for: People in cooler climates or very low-light indoor spaces, where its growth may be limited or support needed
- Plant Type:Trailing Elephant Bush
- Pot Size:6 inches
- Plant Height:Trails
- Usage:Indoor/outdoor decor, gift
- Care:Sunlight, infrequent watering
Our verdict“This Elephant Bush is a reliable, versatile choice for those wanting an easy-care trailing succulent in shaded environments.”
String of Pearls Succulent Plant – Live Hanging Basket with Real Succulents
The iconic String of Pearls offers a distinctive bead-like trailing appearance that is captivating in bright indirect light. Compared with English Ivy, it provides a more delicate, bead-like cascade, perfect for modern hanging baskets. While it is drought-tolerant and easy to maintain, it’s less forgiving in low-light conditions, requiring bright indirect sunlight to maintain its shape and color. In shaded indoor spaces, its growth may slow or become leggy, needing regular pruning to keep its elegant form. This plant excels in sunny spots but isn’t suited for very dark corners, making it more of a statement piece in well-lit areas.
Pros:- Unique bead-like trailing appearance
- Low water needs and drought-tolerant
- Easy to grow indoors with adequate light
Cons:- Requires bright indirect light; dull light diminishes shape and color
- May need regular pruning to maintain shape
Best for: Indoor decorators seeking a visually striking, low-maintenance trailing succulent in bright indirect light
Not ideal for: Those with very low-light spaces or who prefer lush, full foliage over trailing, bead-like aesthetics
- Plant Type:Succulent
- Species:Senecio rowleyanus
- Watering Needs:Low
- Light Requirements:Bright indirect light
- Usage:Indoor, hanging basket
Our verdict“This succulent is ideal for bright, indirect light spots where its distinctive trailing form can be showcased, but it’s less suited for darker environments.”
Ficus Repens Creeping Fig Indoor Plant, 6 Inch Nursery Pot
The Creeping Fig offers a dense, lush foliage effect with small, rounded leaves that work well in various indoor settings. Compared with the English Ivy, it is generally more tolerant of lower light levels, thriving in spaces with minimal indirect light. Its trailing growth pattern makes it suitable for hanging baskets or as a ground cover in containers, and it requires only infrequent watering. However, it may need training or support for optimal trailing display, and overwatering can be a concern if not monitored carefully. Its adaptable nature makes it a good choice for offices or shaded living rooms, though some might find its trailing habit less suited to minimalistic decor.
Pros:- Low maintenance and easy to care for
- Thrives in various indoor light conditions
- Creates a lush, dense trailing effect
Cons:- May require support or training for best trailing effect
- Can be sensitive to overwatering if not careful
Best for: Indoor spaces with low to moderate light where a dense, trailing plant adds lushness without demanding high light levels
Not ideal for: Those seeking a plant with a more upright growth habit or in very bright environments that could cause leaf scorch
- Plant Type:Indoor Houseplant
- Growth Habit:Trailing, Creeping
- Light Conditions:Bright indirect to low light
- Watering:Infrequent, when top inch is dry
- Pot Size:6 inches
Our verdict“This Creeping Fig suits low-light indoor spaces that need a dense, trailing green accent with minimal fuss.”
Brazil Philodendron Heartleaf Hanging Plant, Indoor Houseplant in Nursery Pot
This Brazil Philodendron Heartleaf stands out as the best overall choice for those who have access to moderate light, offering lush, vibrant foliage with yellow stripes that brighten up larger rooms or desks. Compared to the Heartleaf Philodendron Brasil, this plant can grow up to 4 feet, making it more suitable for spacious areas but requiring more room to accommodate its potential size. Its air-purifying qualities and easy care make it an excellent pick for beginners, though it’s less suitable for low-light corners or smaller spaces. The need for moderate light means it’s less adaptable than low-light tolerant options. If your space gets only indirect or low light, this plant may underperform or become leggy.
Pros:- Easy to care for and suitable for beginners
- Enhances indoor air quality naturally
- Vibrant, attractive foliage with yellow stripes
- Ideal for larger spaces or desks
Cons:- Requires moderate light; not suitable for low-light areas
- Can grow up to 4 feet, needing space
Best for: Homeowners or office workers with moderate light that want a sizable, attractive, air-purifying plant.
Not ideal for: Those with very low-light areas or small desks, since it needs moderate illumination and space to grow.
- Plant Type:Philodendron Heartleaf
- Size:6-inch nursery pot
- Height:2-4 feet
- Light Requirements:Moderate light
- Air Purifying:Yes
Our verdict“This plant is perfect for those with moderate light and space, seeking a visually striking, air-purifying houseplant.”
Tradescantia Nanouk Hanging Indoor Plant, 4 Inch Pot
The Tradescantia Nanouk offers striking multicolored, succulent-like leaves that cascade beautifully, making it a lively addition for bright spots. While the Golden Pothos can tolerate a wider range of light levels, Nanouk’s vibrant hues shine brightest with ample indirect light, which makes it less forgiving in dimmer corners. It’s a low-maintenance, trail-friendly plant suited for hanging baskets or support systems, but its need for brighter light means it may fade or lose vibrancy if kept in low-light conditions. Regular watering is necessary to prevent drying out, and its trailing habit can require some support or space to hang freely.
Pros:- Vibrant, variegated foliage adds visual appeal
- Low-maintenance and easy to care for
- Improves indoor air quality
- Excellent for hanging or trailing display
Cons:- Requires bright, indirect light for best color
- May need regular watering to prevent drying out
- Trailing habit may need support or hanging setup
Best for: Decor enthusiasts who want a colorful, trailing plant that thrives in bright, indirect light and are happy to support its growth.
Not ideal for: People with consistently low-light spaces or those seeking a low-maintenance plant that tolerates shade without fuss.
- Plant Type:Hanging Indoor Plant
- Pot Size:4 Inches
- Features:Air Purifying, Trailing, Easy Care
- Color:Pink, Green, Silver
Our verdict“This plant is ideal for those wanting colorful, trailing foliage in well-lit areas who don’t mind some regular watering.”
Live Pothos Plants (4 Pack) Indoor Houseplants – Trailing Money Plant, Devil’s Ivy, Assorted Varieties
The Set of four Pothos plants offers resilient, easy-care greenery that adapts well to low light, making it perfect for beginners or those with less ideal lighting conditions. While the Golden Pothos is a classic choice, this pack includes a variety of types like marble queen and neon, providing diversity for different decor styles. They’re hardy, require minimal attention, and help purify indoor air, but their small size (8-10 inches) means they’re less dramatic than larger plants and may need frequent pruning to keep them looking tidy. Slight variation in appearance among the plants is inevitable but minor.
Pros:- Includes multiple popular pothos varieties
- Easy to care for and resilient
- Helps improve indoor air quality
- Suitable for low light conditions
Cons:- Plants may vary slightly in appearance
- Requires some watering and care to thrive
- Limited pot size may limit growth
Best for: People seeking a set of resilient, low-maintenance plants that thrive in low-light environments and want variety in their collection.
Not ideal for: Those wanting large, statement plants or minimal maintenance with no pruning needed.
- Quantity:4 plants
- Height:8-10 inches
- Varieties:Marble Queen, Silver Satin, Golden, Neon, Hawaiian
Our verdict“This set is perfect for those wanting multiple low-maintenance, air-purifying plants that tolerate low light.”
Costa Farms Golden Pothos, Live Indoor Plant, Trailing Vine, Air Purifying
The Golden Pothos from Costa Farms offers a durable, trailing vine that adapts well to varying light conditions, including low-light spaces, which makes it an excellent choice for offices or dim corners. Compared to the Brazil Philodendron, this plant can tolerate less light and infrequent watering, making it more forgiving for busy or forgetful plant owners. However, it still benefits from occasional watering to prevent stress and may trail several feet, so it needs sufficient space. Shipping stress can sometimes affect its appearance initially, but overall, it’s a resilient, easy-care option for low-light environments.
Pros:- Easy to care for and beginner-friendly
- Tolerates a range of light and watering conditions
- Air-purifying and mood-boosting
- Long trailing growth
Cons:- Requires regular watering to prevent stress
- Can trail several feet, needing space
- May arrive stressed if not handled carefully during shipping
Best for: Individuals seeking a hardy, low-maintenance trailing plant that tolerates low to moderate light with minimal watering.
Not ideal for: Those who want a compact or small plant or who don’t have space for trailing vines to spread out.
- Plant Type:Golden Pothos
- Size:10-inch hanging basket
- Light Requirements:Low to bright indirect light
- Watering:Water when top 2 inches of soil are dry, roughly once per week
- Features:Air purifying, trailing vine, easy to grow
Our verdict“This plant is ideal for those wanting a resilient, low-maintenance trailing vine that thrives in low-light spaces with minimal watering.”
Heartleaf Philodendron Brasil Hanging Plant – Indoor, Easy Care, Air Purifying
The Heartleaf Philodendron Brasil provides a vibrant, tropical aesthetic with its green leaves streaked with yellow, making it a lively choice for indoor spaces. It’s a low-maintenance, easy-care plant that tolerates moderate light, which makes it more adaptable than plants like the Tradescantia Nanouk that demand brighter conditions for optimal color. Its trailing habit and air-purifying ability make it ideal for larger areas or hanging baskets, but it can grow up to 4 feet, requiring ample space. Its sensitivity to overwatering means careful watering is necessary to prevent stress or root issues.
Pros:- Low-maintenance and easy to care for
- Enhances indoor air quality
- Vibrant, tropical appearance
- Suitable for moderate light conditions
Cons:- Requires moderate light conditions
- Can grow up to 4 feet, may need space
- Potentially sensitive to overwatering
Best for: Decor lovers seeking a colorful, easy-to-maintain plant that tolerates moderate lighting and adds tropical charm.
Not ideal for: Those with very low-light spaces or limited room to accommodate its potential size and trailing habit.
- Plant Type:Hanging Indoor Plant
- Size:6-inch nursery pot
- Height:2-4 feet
- Air Purifying:Yes
- Care Level:Easy
Our verdict“This plant is perfect for those wanting a tropical, colorful, easy-to-care-for houseplant in moderate light settings.”
How We Picked
To determine the best low light hanging plants, I evaluated each option based on several key factors: their ability to thrive in low-light conditions, overall ease of care, durability, and maintenance needs. I also considered aesthetic versatility, price point, and growth habits to ensure the selections suit a variety of spaces and owners. Plants that require minimal pruning, watering, or special conditions ranked higher, as they reduce effort and increase success for most buyers. The ranking reflects a balance between performance, value, and suitability for different skill levels and environments.| low light hanging plant | Light Requirements |
|---|---|
| American Plant Exchange Englis | Bright to low indirect light |
| Othonna Capensis Ruby Necklace | Bright sunlight |
| Trailing Elephant Bush Succule | — |
| String of Pearls Succulent Pla | Bright indirect light |
| Ficus Repens Creeping Fig Indo | — |
| Brazil Philodendron Heartleaf | Moderate light |
| Tradescantia Nanouk Hanging In | — |
| Live Pothos Plants | — |
| Costa Farms Golden Pothos | Low to bright indirect light |
| Heartleaf Philodendron Brasil | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Low Light Hanging Plants
Choosing the right low light hanging plant involves more than just selecting a pretty variety. It’s essential to consider factors like the plant’s light tolerance, growth rate, and care requirements to ensure it remains healthy and vibrant. Understanding these factors helps prevent common mistakes, such as overwatering succulents or choosing plants that grow too large for the intended space. Additionally, thinking about your environment—and how much attention you can give—will guide you toward a plant that fits your lifestyle.Light Tolerance and Placement
While labeled as low light, most plants still need some indirect or ambient light to thrive. Evaluate the actual light levels in your space before selecting a plant, and choose varieties known for their ability to tolerate dim conditions. For example, pothos and philodendrons do well in shaded corners, whereas succulents generally prefer brighter indirect light. Proper placement minimizes stress on the plant and prolongs its health.Growth Habit and Size
Consider how much space you have and how large you want the plant to grow. Trailing plants like the Heartleaf Philodendron or Pothos can be trained to cascade from shelves or hanging baskets, making them ideal for small or cluttered areas. Larger plants may need more room and support, so pick varieties that fit your available space and aesthetic preferences.Maintenance and Durability
Low-maintenance plants are ideal for busy or novice owners. Succulents like String of Pearls require infrequent watering and good drainage, but can suffer if overwatered or placed in too much shade. Trailing greenery often needs occasional pruning to stay tidy, but generally offers a forgiving care routine. Choose plants that match your willingness and ability to care for them.Price and Long-Term Value
While some plants are budget-friendly, investing a bit more can mean better quality, higher resilience, and longer lifespan. Premium varieties often feature stronger stems, more vibrant foliage, or better adaptability. Balance your budget with the expected longevity and care needs of the plant, ensuring you get good value without sacrificing quality.Aesthetic and Style Compatibility
Select plants that complement your decor style and color scheme. Trailing greenery adds a lush, relaxing vibe, while succulents lend a modern, minimalist touch. Consider the plant’s leaf shape, color, and overall form to create a cohesive look in your space. Also, think about whether you prefer a single statement piece or multiple plants for a layered effect.Frequently Asked Questions
Can low light hanging plants survive in complete shade?
Most low light hanging plants tolerate shade, but complete darkness can be challenging for many. Plants like pothos and philodendrons can survive in very dim conditions, but they still need some indirect light for photosynthesis. If a space is truly without natural light, consider supplementing with artificial grow lights to keep your plants healthy and vibrant.
How often should I water low light hanging plants?
The watering frequency depends on the plant type and environment. Succulents like String of Pearls need infrequent watering, typically once every few weeks, especially in low-light settings where evaporation is slower. Trailing plants such as pothos or philodendrons prefer the soil to dry out partially between waterings. Always check the soil moisture before watering to prevent root rot.
Are succulents a good choice for low light hanging plants?
Succulents generally prefer brighter, indirect light, but some varieties like String of Pearls can adapt reasonably well to lower light levels if placed carefully. They require well-draining soil and minimal watering, making them suitable for less attentive owners. However, in very dark spots, succulents might become leggy or lose vibrancy, so consider placing them where they get at least some indirect sunlight or supplement with artificial light.
What are the best plants for hanging indoors in low light?
Plants like Pothos, Heartleaf Philodendron, and Tradescantia Nanouk excel in low-light indoor settings. They are resilient, fast-growing, and easy to care for, making them excellent choices for shaded or minimally lit areas. These plants also help with air purification, adding both aesthetic and functional benefits to your space.
Should I choose a plant based on pet safety?
Yes, pet safety is an important factor. Some popular low light hanging plants, such as Philodendrons and Pothos, are toxic to dogs and cats if ingested. If you have pets, look for non-toxic options like certain varieties of trailing plants or consider placing toxic plants out of reach. Always verify the safety of your plant choices if your household includes curious animals.
Conclusion
For those new to plant care or seeking a fuss-free option, the American Plant Exchange English Ivy offers durability and versatility. If you’re on a budget but want reliable greenery, the Live Pothos Plants provide excellent value and air-purifying benefits. For more experienced plant lovers wanting a premium look, the Costa Farms Golden Pothos combines vibrant foliage with long-lasting resilience. Beginners and busy owners will appreciate plants like the Heartleaf Philodendron, while those with more light or specific aesthetic goals might prefer trailing succulents or specialized varieties. Keep your environment, lifestyle, and style preferences in mind to select the perfect low light hanging plant for your space.
