15 Best Indoor Hanging Plants for Low Light and Shade

Hanging plants are versatile and impressive companions for those looking to spruce up their indoor space.

Not only can hanging plants make indoor areas more aesthetically pleasing, but they can also improve air quality, provide insulation, reduce stress levels, and keep an indoor green space without exposing your pets to toxic plant material.

Luckily, many indoor hanging plants thrive in low-light and shady conditions, making them perfect for homes or offices with little natural light.

If you’re looking for an easy way to upgrade your dull indoor space, hanging plants may be the perfect solution.

What are the Best Hanging Plants that Do Not Need Sunlight?

While having a green thumb isn’t required to keep most indoor plants alive, some plants are easier to care for than others.

If you’re looking for low-maintenance plants for a hanging basket that do not need sunlight and can survive in a dark corner of your room, consider the following options.

1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

spider plant in brown basket


The Spider Plant gets its common name from the spider-like shape of its leaves.

These plants are native to South Africa and typically grow in silt loam, well-drained soil.

The Spider Plant is great for beginners, as it is easy to grow and care for and can be propagated by division or root cuttings.

Cuttings should be taken from a strong and healthy mother plant, and not too many cuttings should be taken at one time.

USDA Hardiness Zones

While Spider Plants originate in and around South Africa, they are not very hardy.

In the United States, Spider Plants can be grown outdoors as perennials in zones 9-11 and should not be introduced to the cold. They are unable to tolerate frost and can die at first sight of a freeze.

Indoor Growing Conditions

  • Soil: This plant is versatile and can grow in various potting mediums. However, it does best in well-drained but moist, loamy soil. Spider plants like soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 – although they can tolerate pH balances up to 7.0.
  • Water: Spider plants like filtered water or rainwater.
  • Temperature: 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Light: The Spider Plant can tolerate low and bright light conditions, though it prefers indirect sunlight.
  • Humidity: Spider plants prefer humid conditions but can also tolerate dry air.
  • Fertilizer: Feed the plant once a month with a water-soluble fertilizer during the primary growing season.
  • Toxicity: The spider plant is non-toxic to both humans and animals.

2. Air Plants


Air plants are a type of epiphyte, which is a very cool type of plant that grows on other plants or objects (host plants).

Air plants get their name from the fact that they don’t need soil to grow, as they receive all the nutrients and moisture they need from the air.

They are natives of the southeastern United States, Mexico, Central America, and South America, but are well adapted to a wide variety of growing conditions.

Air Plants are a popular option for people looking for hanging plants that require little sunlight and can make a great addition to almost any living room.

They are also some of the best plants for elevated spaces.

USDA Hardiness Zones

Air plants grow best outdoors in US hardiness zones 10-12. They can sometimes tolerate zone 9 conditions in parts of the country, but that depends on the local weather conditions for that year, which are hardly consistent year to year.

If you happen to live in a year-round warm climate, generally in hardiness zones 10 or higher, you should have no problem growing these epiphytes all year long.

Indoor Growing Conditions

  • Soil: Air plants are considered one of the best indoor hanging plants since they don’t need soil to grow. Still, they can be placed in a potting medium for stability or aesthetics.
  • Water: Air Plants should be watered 2-3 times a week and allowed to dry completely before watering again.
  • Temperature: 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Light: Air plants thrive in bright but indirect sunlight.
  • Humidity: Air plants prefer humid conditions but can tolerate dry air.
  • Fertilizer: Feed air plants once a month with a water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.
  • Toxicity: Air plants are non-toxic to both humans and animals.

3. Staghorn Fern

staghorn fern plant hanging on a wall


The staghorn fern is another type of epiphyte, which also grows on other plants but does not damage or parasitize its host.

Staghorn ferns are native to Africa, Australia, and Southeast Asia, and make dominant-looking fixture plants in indoor or outdoor settings.

Even though these ferns can grow quite large (up to 3 feet across), they’re one of the most preferred low-light hanging basket plants thanks to their impressive leaf size and shape.

They make beautiful houseplants and can be attached to almost any surface using string, twine, or wire.

USDA Hardiness Zones

Staghorn ferns typically grow well outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 8 or higher and are often referred to as tender or semi-hardy plants.

While semi-hardy, they are unable to withstand temperatures below 50 degrees F, so be mindful if you live in an area with variable winter weather.

If the temperature starts dropping outside, then having these ferns in a hanging basket will allow you to quickly and easily move them inside where they will be more comfortable.

Indoor Growing Conditions

  • Soil: Staghorn ferns usually grow on trees in the wild, so when replicating their natural environment at home, use a potting mix that is loose and bark-based. There should be relatively few minerals or rocks.
  • Water: These ferns like to be kept moist, so water 2-3 times a week and mist the leaves daily.
  • Temperature: 80–90 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Light: Staghorn ferns prefer bright, indirect sunlight.
  • Humidity: Staghorn ferns prefer humid conditions but can tolerate dry air.
  • Fertilizer: Use a balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer at half strength every month to help it grow.
  • Toxicity: Staghorn ferns are not toxic to humans and animals.

4. English Ivy

green english ivy leaves


English Ivy is a climbing vine native to Europe and was first introduced to the United States circa the early 1800s. Since then, it has become a popular ornamental plant to keep inside and outside of homes.

Personally, I can’t help but think of Boston when I look at these Celtic green vines growing on brick walls or other similar structures.

English Ivy can make the perfect plant for those looking for a fast-growing ornamental plant that can reach lengths of up to 100 feet! Talk about the opportunity for creative style.

This ivy is often used as a ground cover or to cover walls and other structures, as it has a long, windy, and easily trained vine.

USDA Hardiness Zones

English Ivy is not among the tropical varieties on our list of the best plants for hanging baskets, as it typically prefers hardiness zones between zone 4 and zone 8. They can survive in zones above 8 upto 13 but must be carefully monitored so that they don’t overheat or get too much sun.

As with most evergreen perennials, they don’t want too much sun. If you live in an extremely sunny area like Arizona or Nevada, be sure to grow English Ivy in a location with a fair amount of shade throughout the day.

Indoor Growing Conditions

  • Soil: English Ivy prefers rich, loamy soil that is moist but well-drained. They do not like dry soil.
  • Water: Water English Ivy when the top inch of soil is dry.
  • Temperature: 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Light: Ivy plants usually prefer medium light but can also tolerate higher brightness levels.
  • Humidity: English Ivy prefers humid conditions but can tolerate dry air.
  • Fertilizer: Feed English Ivy plants every 14 days during the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Toxicity: English Ivy is toxic to small children and animals if ingested. (Try using a pet repellent spray on toxic plants to keep your pets safe and healthy)

5. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron cordatum)

heartleaf philodendron plant in a brown clay pot on a desk


Heartleaf Philodendrons are tropical plants that hail from Central and South America. They typically grow in moist, shady areas near rivers and streams or underneath jungle canopies, adding to their draw and appeal for those looking for a lush tropical vibe.

A Heartleaf Philodendron is one of the best plants for a hanging basket that doesn’t need much sunlight and boasts bright green heart-shaped leaves that are sure to impress.

It’s a popular houseplant because it’s super easy to care for and thrives in indoor environments.

USDA Hardiness Zones

While most philodendron species are relatively adaptable and can be grown all year round outdoors in hardiness zones 9-11, Heartleaf philodendrons can only tolerate most outdoor conditions in zones 11 and 12.

Since they are pickier about their temperature and sunlight needs, the heartleaf variety does well in a hanging basket. This allows them to be brought inside at first sight of unideal weather conditions.

Indoor Growing Conditions

  • Soil: To help your Heart Leaf grow strong and free from root rot, plant it in moist, well-draining soil. A potting soil mixture of coconut coir, peat moss, pine bark, and perlite is perfect for your Heartleaf Philodendron’s needs.
  • Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings every 1-2 weeks. If the plant is receiving more light, then water more frequently.
  • Temperature: To imitate their tropical forest environment, Heartleaf Philodendron plants prefer warm temperatures of 65 – 85°F and should not be exposed to prolonged periods below 60°F.
  • Light: Heart-leaf philodendrons grow best in bright diffuse light, but they can tolerate various lighting conditions, ranging from diffused light to full shade.
  • Humidity: Heart-leaf philodendrons perform best when humidity levels are high, at around 40%. However, they can also survive in low-humidity environments.
  • Fertilizer: For best results, fertilize your plant lightly every 3-4 weeks when it is actively growing. Look for a balanced, water-soluble 20-20-20 fertilizer.
  • Toxicity: Heartleaf Philodendrons are toxic to humans and animals if ingested.

6. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

green and yellow snake plants in a plant nursery


The snake plant, also known as the Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is a succulent plant that is native to western and tropical Africa. It has long, thin, stiff, and upright pointed leaves that are patterned with bands of green and yellow, so they look like they dance as they stand tall in groups.

It’s a unique plant in that it is stemless, so the foliage juts out from the soil from seemingly nowhere.

The snake plant is a great choice for a hanging plant because it’s relatively easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions – including low light and shade.

USDA Hardiness Zones

Snake plants aren’t too picky and can tolerate most outdoor conditions between zones 10 and 12 in the US. While they can grow outdoors in zones outside 10 and 12 around the country, they will only survive if you keep them indoors for most of the year.

Like the other plants on this list, snake plants make the ideal plants for hanging baskets, which makes them easy to move in and out as needed.

You could even consider choosing designated areas inside the house and outdoors and anchor hooks in each location. That way, you’re ready to keep your plant babies comfortable at the drop of a hat. We all know how finicky mother nature can be.

Indoor Growing Conditions

  • Soil: Snake plants are best placed in a free-draining soil mix, as they are prone to root rot. It would be best to go with a soilless potting mixture that contains perlite or vermiculite.
  • Water: Allow the soil of your snake plant to dry out fully between bi-weekly waterings to help avoid root rot or overwatering. In the winter months, you can reduce watering even further. Water the plant once every month during the winter, provided the soil remains moist after 14 days.
  • Temperature: Although the snake plant will do alright in dry air, keeping it away from places with a lot of airflow is best. It does well in average room temperatures ranging from 60-75 degrees F.
  • Light: Snake plants can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, from low to high light exposure. However, it will do best in bright, indirect lighting conditions.
  • Humidity: Snake plants tolerate dry environments and can survive in desert-like conditions. However, they will do best in moderate to high humidity levels.
  • Fertilizer: Snake plants are tough plants that can survive in poor soil conditions. Fertilize your plant twice yearly with a dose of almost any plant food for the best results.
  • Toxicity: Snake plants are considered mildly toxic to humans and animals if ingested.

7. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

dark green leaves of a zz plant growing in a pot outdoors


The ZZ plant is a species of flowering plant in the family Araceae and is popular for its long stems with alternating leaves on each side.

ZZ plants are native to Eastern Africa, from the region around Kenya all the way down to the tip of South Africa, which might explain the development of waxy leaves over time to help keep moisture in.

The ZZ plant is widely accepted as one of the best indoor hanging plants with little need for sunlight to thrive, and they make fantastic companions for indoor hanging baskets!

They are simple to care for, thrive in low-light conditions, don’t require frequent watering, and are highly resistant to pests and diseases. An all-around all-star of a houseplant!

USDA Hardiness Zones

Native to Eastern Africa, ZZ plants are winter hardy in USDA zones 9 and 10 for most of the year but aren’t too accustomed to the colder US climates.

These tropical plants make the perfect hanging houseplants for zones outside 9 and 10, though, and if kept in hanging baskets, they can easily be moved in and out as the weather allows.

Indoor Growing Conditions

  • Soil: ZZ plants do best in a well-draining potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite.
  • Water: Water your ZZ Plant every two to three weeks, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Remember that you’ll have to water your ZZ plant more frequently in full sunlight and less often when they’re not.
  • Temperature: ZZ plants prefer average room temperatures of 65-75 degrees F. However, they can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and will do fine in anything from 60-85 degrees F.
  • Light: ZZ plants do best in bright, indirect light but can tolerate many lighting conditions, including extreme low-light conditions.
  • Humidity: If you want to recreate your ZZ Plant’s natural habitat, aim for humidity levels around 40-50%.
  • Fertilizer: Feed your ZZ plant on a balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer once every six months.
  • Toxicity: Every part of the ZZ plant is poisonous if ingested and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, among other side effects.

8. Boston Fern

light green boston fern growing in a pot in the corner of an oudoor patio


If you’re looking for one of the best indoor plants for your hanging pot, you should definitely consider the well-known Boston fern.

This is an ornamental fern native to eastern North America (hence the name ‘Boston’) and is typically grown indoors as a houseplant. Still, they make great outdoor fixtures to help cover ugly corners and dirty areas that need a touch-up.

Boston Ferns are prized for their large, sprawling foliage that can easily fill small spaces in a short amount of time. A bushy beauty indeed.

USDA Hardiness Zones

Boston ferns can be grown outdoors in most temperate climates but remain winter hardy in USDA growing zones 9-11.

Since they enjoy humid climates, you need to take great care if you live in a dry and hot region like the southwestern United States.

To fight overheating or too much sun, keep your Boston Fern mobile, giving it plenty of water and enough shade during the summer months.

Indoor Growing Conditions 

  • Soil: Boston ferns are easy to care for. They prefer medium to high humidity and moist silt loam soil, which can be propagated by division or spores. Boston ferns thrive in a potting mix with perlite or vermiculite.
  • Water: Boston ferns need a lot of water, but they also need good drainage. Make sure the pot you’re using has drainage holes in the bottom, and place the pot on a tray or plate filled with gravel or other material that will allow the water to drain away.
  • Temperature: Your Boston ferns may die if exposed to lower temperatures. For Boston ferns to grow best indoors, maintain a temperature between 68 and 78 F.
  • Light: Boston Ferns are unique plants that can grow in both medium and bright sunlight, as long as it’s indirect. If Boston ferns are exposed to direct sunlight for too long, their leaves may get sunburned.
  • Humidity: These voluptuous plants thrive in humidity levels of 60 to 70%. If the air in your home is too dry, you can increase the humidity around your ferns by grouping them, using a humidifier, or placing them on a tray of pebbles and water.
  • Fertilizer: Boston ferns have a slow growth rate, so they won’t need too much fertilizer. Fertilize Boston ferns during their main growing season by applying a monthly dose of water-soluble fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20-10-20.
  • Toxicity: Boston ferns are not poisonous to humans or animals if ingested. However, the sap from the leaves may cause skin irritation for some people. If you experience irritation, wash the affected area with soap and water.

9. Birds Nest Fern

long green leaves of a birds nest fern plant growing outdoors


If you’re looking for a new plant to add some life to your home, why not try a Birds Nest Fern?

The flowering plant native to Australia and Asia fits almost any home perfectly.

Bird’s nest ferns are perfect for a hanging planter and don’t need much sunlight because of their aerial roots, which grow down from the leaves and form hanging structures that resemble nests.

The bird’s nest fern makes a beautiful plant addition to any home or garden and is sure to please any green thumb!

USDA Hardiness Zones

The bird’s nest fern is native to the tropics, so it grows best outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 11 and 12.

These ferns can withstand outdoor conditions in lower hardiness zones, but generally only in the warmer months. Bring your hanging ferns indoors as soon as the weather starts to turn, and do your best to mimic warmer climates indoors.

Indoor Growing Conditions

  • Soil: The best soil for the bird’s nest fern is rich in organic matter and well-draining. A potting mix with peat moss, vermiculite, or perlite will work well. You can also mix in some compost to the soil to give your fern a bit of a boost.
  • Water: Bring your Bird’s Nest Fern back to its natural environment by watering it every 7-14 days, letting the soil dry out halfway down between waterings. The less water it receives, the more frequently you will need to water it. Be sure to water your fern around the outside rather than directly into the center, as this will ensure an even distribution for all of the roots. 
  • Temperature: Bird’s-nest ferns typically grow best in warm temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures below this range Fahrenheit may impact this plant’s growth rate.
  • Light: Your Bird’s Nest Fern will do well in indirect sunlight or filtered light. If the fern is placed in too much direct sunlight, it will quickly scorch the leaves.
  • Humidity: The bird’s nest fern is a hardy plant that can tolerate 30 to 50 percent humidity. However, extra moisture from humidifiers, pebble trays, or regular misting will help keep the fronds green and prevent them from browning at the edges.
  • Fertilizer: Bird’s nest ferns are slow-growing, so they don’t need much fertilizer. Apply a 20-10-20 fertilizer every three to four weeks during their growing season, diluted to half strength.
  • Toxicity: Bird’s Nest Ferns are not poisonous to humans or animals if ingested.

10. Chinese Evergreen Plant

green and pink leaves of a chinese evergreen plant


The Chinese Evergreen is a stunning plant that hails from the Philippines and northeastern Sulawesi.

It’s an easy-to-care-for plant that has dark, vibrant green leaves with a prominent white vein running down the center. It grows in clumps up to 2 feet tall, so it fills spaces with prominence!

This plant is an extremely popular houseplant used in hanging baskets due to its relatively light weight and low need for sunlight.

It’s also one of the few plants that release oxygen at night, making it ideal for bedrooms or living rooms.

USDA Hardiness Zones

Chinese evergreens can only withstand temperatures down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, making them particularly temperamental for most locations in the US.

They will fare well year-round in hardiness zones 10 to 12, but even in zone 11, you need to be careful of the random cold spell. However, they grow well indoors in pretty much any home, so just bring them inside if the weather starts to turn.

Indoor Growing Conditions

  • Soil: The Chinese evergreen needs nutrient-rich, loose potting soil to thrive. Use a soil type that will help your plant retain water and allow extra water to drain. Sufficient drainage prevents root rot, which could otherwise kill your Chinese evergreen.
  • Water: The Chinese evergreen plant does best with moderate watering. Water them every 7-10 days, and allow them to dry briefly between waterings, as these plants love to be slightly moist.
  • Temperature: The Chinese evergreen plant prefers warm temperatures between 68-77 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they can survive in cooler climates as low as 55 degrees.
  • Light: Keep your Chinese evergreen in an area with low to bright indirect light. Please, note that if your Chinese evergreen has dark green leaves, it can tolerate dim light better than the different varieties with little light or colorful variegation, which require brighter light and may even need artificial light to keep their colors and patterns.
  • Humidity: Chinese evergreens do best in cool to moderate temperatures, between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If the air is too dry, the leaves may start to brown and drop off.
  • Fertilizer: Fertilize your evergreen plants every two to three weeks during the growing season using a 20-20-20 liquid fertilizer. Cut back on applications or skip them altogether during the plant’s winter dormancy.
  • Toxicity: This evergreen plant is poisonous to humans and animals if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning include stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Call the Poison Control Center immediately if you believe your Chinese evergreen has been ingested.

11. Donkey’s Tail Plant (Burro’s Tail)

round mint green leaves of donkeys tail plant


This list of the hanging plants wouldn’t be complete without a mention of the Donkey’s tail (or Burro’s Tail) plant.

It is a succulent plant from Mexico and receives its name because of its long, fleshy leaves that resemble a Donkey’s tail.

USDA Hardiness Zones

Although Donkey’s Tail plants are most often kept as indoor houseplants, they can be grown year-round in hardiness zones 10 and 11. Be sure to keep them out of freezing conditions, though, as they can quickly head downhill at temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Indoor Growing Conditions

  • Soil: This plant is ideal for dry, sandy soil. When potting a Donkey’s tail Plant, you can use a store-bought cactus mix or make your combination of sand and regular potting soil.
  • Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
  • Temperature: The ideal temperature range for a Burro’s tail plant to thrive is 65°-75°F (18.3°-23.9°C). Keep your Donkey’s tail plant at a lower temperature by 10°, out of drafts, and away from cold doors & windows during the winter when the plant is dormant.
  • Light: The Donkey’s tail is drought tolerant and easy to care for, making it a popular houseplant that thrives in warm climates and does well indoors with bright, indirect light.
  • Humidity: When it comes to humidity, a Donkey’s tail can survive in any conditions. This plant does best in environments with average humidity levels; too much moisture can cause the leaves to rot.
  • Fertilizer: Feed your Burros tail plant monthly with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
  • Toxicity: The Donkey’s tail is non-toxic and safe for humans and animals.

12. Maidenhair Fern

wet green leaves of maidenhair fern


The Maidenhair fern is native to regions in Asia, Europe, and North America, and it gets its name from the delicate, feathery appearance of its fronds.

Since the arms of these plants extend outward in all directions, their appearance inside a hanging pot is a sight to see. Hanging it via a macrame plant hanger works as icing on the cake.

This fern grows best in moist, shady areas and can be used as an indoor plant or outdoor ground cover.

USDA Hardiness Zones

As a high-altitude native, the maidenhair fern is one of the more tolerant plants on our list for withstanding low temperatures. These ferns can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 3-8 at certain times of the year and are generally hardy all year in zones 8-10.

As with the other plants on this list, they are the perfect companion for a hanging basket, so prepare hooks indoors and outdoors for a quick change of conditions.

Indoor Growing Conditions

  • Soil: If you want your Maidenhair fern to thrive, give it a nutrient-rich potting mix with slightly alkaline soils and plenty of compost.
  • Water: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy.
  • Temperature: The ideal temperature for this fern plant is 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Light: Maidenhair ferns prefer bright indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. Too much light is also not ideal in the summer months.
  • Humidity: Maidenhair ferns thrive in humid environments. If the air is too dry, the leaves will start to turn brown and drop off.
  • Fertilizer: These ferns need minimal fertilizer and will gradually grow by obtaining nutrients from the soil.
  • Toxicity: The Maidenhair Fern is non-toxic and safe for humans and animals.

13. Golden Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)

variegated green and cream colored leaves of a golden pothos plant near a window


Golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is one of the fastest-growing and easiest-to-care-for vines that are often used as basket plants.

They are native to Southeast Asia but can be grown indoors in most parts of the world.

Golden pothos can be an excellent choice if you’re looking for plants to remove toxins from the air, so it’s a great way to add an extra layer of air protection in homes or offices.

Pothos plants also help control humidity levels in indoor spaces.

USDA Hardiness Zones

Pothos are vining plants that are native to tropical and subtropical rainforests. As a result, they are only hardy year round in the US in zones 10-12.

Still, you can keep these plants in baskets outdoors during the summer in lower hardiness zones, just make sure to bring them inside when the seasons begin to change.

Pothos rarely survive prolonged freezing temperatures, so be vigilant if you are in a risky zone.

Indoor Growing Conditions

  • Soil: These shade-loving plants can be grown in various soils as long as they are well-draining. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand is a good choice.
  • Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Golden pothos is tolerant of both drought and flooding.
  • Light: Pothos plants can tolerate low light conditions but grow best in bright, indirect light.
  • Humidity: Golden pothos tolerates both high and low humidity levels.
  • Fertilizer: Feed a water-soluble houseplant fertilizer once every two months during the growing season. Since the Golden pothos goes dormant during the winter, there is no need to fertilize during this time.

14. Mistletoe Cactus

red mistletoe cactus hanging in a basket


The Mistletoe cactus is a stellar-looking succulent plant that hails from certain regions across South and Central America.

Mistletoe cacti are a fan favorite of both indoor and outdoor gardeners, who often consider it one of the best choices for plants that have a low need for light. Some people even choose to design their indoor space with these beauties, as they look exceptionally good in different types of creative hanging planters.

This plant produces small, white berries that look like beaded braids hanging towards the floor, and their unusual shape and pinkish color make them a popular choice for plant collectors and garden enthusiasts.

USDA Hardiness Zones

Mistletoe cactus plants are hardy in the higher zones, typically zones 9 and 1o. They are most commonly grown indoors in hanging baskets but can take comfort in the outdoors during the right seasons.

Mistletoe cacti struggle below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, so just be mindful if you are in lower hardiness zones.

Indoor Growing Conditions

  • Soil: The Mistletoe cactus grows best in a moist, well-draining potting mix with slightly acidic soil.
  • Water: The water requirements for Mistletoe cacti are low. In fact, this plant thrives in dry conditions and can even go for long periods without any water. This means the Mistletoe cactus is an excellent choice for those looking for low-maintenance house plants that don’t require much water. Just be sure to place it in a sunny spot, like in a south-facing window area where it can get plenty of sunlight, and ensure the soil is well drained to keep the plant from becoming waterlogged.
  • Temperature: The Mistletoe cactus prefers warm temperatures between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit and will not tolerate cold weather. If the temperature dips below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the plant may start to experience stress and may die.
  • Light: The Mistletoe cactus does best in bright, indirect sunlight. If the plant sees too much direct sunlight, it may get sunburned and suffer.
  • Humidity: Mistletoe cactus needs a fair amount of humidity to thrive. If the air in your home is too dry, you can place the plant on a pebble tray or use a humidifier to increase the humidity around the plant.
  • Fertilizer: Mistletoe cactus should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer.
  • Toxicity: Mistletoe cactus is not toxic to humans or animals.

15. Sweet Alyssum

white flowers and green leaves of sweet alyssum


Sweet Alyssum is a wonderful little white flowering plant that, to many’s surprise, is a member of the cabbage family! Yup, you read that right. Broccoli, cabbage, and kale are all distant relatives of Sweet Alyssum.

Since it is easy to grow and don’t require a ton of light to thrive, they make ideal companions for indoor hanging baskets.

Go right ahead, fill your space with these fragrant white flowers that are sure to put a spring and summertime vibe in the air.

USDA Hardiness Zones

Sweet Alyssum, like many other hanging plants on our list, is winter hardy in zone 9 and above. As an annual, it can do alright in zone 8, but if you plan to grow it as a perennial, better to move it inside for the winter.

Indoor Growing Conditions

  • Soil: Sweet Alyssum grows best in well-drained, moist soil but can survive in varying conditions.
  • Water: During hot weather days or dry spells, water your sweet alyssum plants at least once a week. If possible, give them an inch of water each time you wet the soil, but ensure the water drains well to avoid root rot.
  • Temperature: Sweet alyssum prefers cool weather and can tolerate temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the plant will not survive if the temperature dips below freezing.
  • Light: Sweet Alyssum thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
  • Humidity: Sweet Alyssum prefers a humid environment but can tolerate dry conditions.
  • Fertilizer: Sweet Alyssum plants can do just fine without additional fertilizers. However, if you want to give them a little boost, you can feed them once a month with a water-soluble, well-balanced fertilizer.
  • Toxicity: Sweet Alyssum is not considered toxic to humans or animals.

Bonus Plant: String of Pearls

green string of pearls plant growing in a small brown pot


String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) is a succulent plant native to Africa, and it gets its name from its long spindly vines covered in small green beads that look like pearls.

The string of Pearls is a popular choice for green thumbs looking for hanging plants that don’t need a lot of light. They are super low maintenance, lightweight, and look like a gardener’s dream plant.

USDA Hardiness Zones

The string of pearls plant is hardy between zones 9 and 12 but does best in indoor environments. As a houseplant, they can be grown pretty much anywhere. But as an outdoor hanging plant, you need to keep a close eye on their temperament.

Always bring these indoors before the first frost.

Indoor Growing Conditions

  • Soil: Even though sandy soil is a String of Pearls’ natural habitat, the plant can grow in various soils as long as they are well-draining.
  • Water: Water your String of Pearls plant when the soil is dry to the touch. Be sure to water the plant deeply, but don’t allow it to sit in water. Allow the plant to dry out completely before watering it again.
  • Temperature: String of Pearls prefers cool weather at night and warmer at day and can tolerate temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the plant will not survive if the temperature dips below freezing.
  • Light: String of Pearls plants need bright, indirect sunlight to thrive. The leaves may start to burn if the plant is left in direct sunlight in the harsher afternoon hours.
  • Humidity: The String of Pearls does not need a lot of humidity to survive, but it does prefer a humid environment. Aim for 50% humidity or higher.
  • Fertilizer: You can keep your string of pearls healthy by fertilizing it with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer once every month during the late spring and summer.
  • Toxicity: The String of Pearls may be a gorgeous plant, but they are toxic to humans and animals.

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