7 Pet-Safe Low Light Hanging Plants to Brighten Your Home


Discover the best pet-safe low light hanging plants for your home! These easy-care, non-toxic plants add greenery without harming your furry friends—perfect for dim spaces.

Introduction

Did you know that over 65% of pet owners worry about toxic plants in their homes? If you’re looking for lush, low-maintenance hanging plants that thrive in dim corners and are safe for pets, you’re in the right place! Whether you have curious cats or playful pups, these pet-friendly, low-light plants will bring life to your space without the stress. Let’s dive into the best options that keep both your home and pets happy!

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, pet-safe plant that also purifies the air, the spider plant is a fantastic choice. Its long, arching leaves with white stripes add a fresh, lively look to any space.

Why It’s Great

Spider plants are non-toxic, making them completely safe for curious cats and dogs. They’re also excellent air purifiers, removing toxins like formaldehyde and xylene from your home. Plus, they thrive in indirect light, so they’re perfect for rooms with limited sunlight.

Care Tips

These plants are forgiving—perfect for beginners or forgetful plant parents. Water them when the top inch of soil feels dry, and they’ll tolerate occasional neglect. They also produce “pups” (baby spider plants) that you can propagate easily, giving you more greenery to share or expand your collection.

Pet Safety

No need to worry if your pet takes a nibble—spider plants are completely harmless to cats and dogs.


Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

For a lush, cascading look, the Boston fern is a classic choice. Its feathery fronds make it a stunning addition to hanging baskets or high shelves where its foliage can drape beautifully.

Why It’s Great

This fern adds a touch of wild, natural beauty to indoor spaces. It thrives in humid environments, making it great for bathrooms or kitchens. Plus, it’s non-toxic, so pets can safely be around it.

Care Tips

Boston ferns love moisture—keep their soil consistently damp (but not soggy). They also appreciate high humidity, so misting them regularly or placing them near a humidifier helps. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch their delicate leaves.

Pet Safety

Completely pet-friendly! Even if your cat or dog decides to investigate, there’s no risk of toxicity.


Staghorn Fern (Platycerium bifurcatum)

If you want something truly unique, the staghorn fern is a showstopper. Its antler-like leaves make it a living piece of art, especially when mounted on wood or hung in a basket.

Why It’s Great

This fern has a sculptural, almost prehistoric appearance that stands out among typical houseplants. It does well in low to medium light, making it versatile for different spots in your home.

Care Tips

Unlike most ferns, staghorns don’t grow in soil—they prefer being mounted on wood or placed in a hanging basket with sphagnum moss. Mist them regularly to mimic their natural humid habitat. Water by soaking the moss or roots when they feel dry.

Pet Safety

Completely harmless if pets decide to take a bite—no toxic compounds here.


Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)

Peperomias come in many varieties, but trailing types like Peperomia hope are especially great for hanging planters. Their small, thick leaves add texture without overwhelming a space.

Why It’s Great

These plants are compact, making them ideal for small spaces or shelves. They’re also incredibly low-maintenance and come in a range of leaf shapes and colors, from deep green to variegated patterns.

Care Tips

Peperomias prefer well-draining soil and don’t need frequent watering—let the soil dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. They do well in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.

Pet Safety

100% non-toxic to cats and dogs, so you can place them anywhere without worry.


Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus)

For a fast-growing, trailing plant that fills out quickly, Swedish ivy is a great pick. Its round, glossy leaves cascade beautifully, making it perfect for hanging baskets.

Why It’s Great

This plant grows quickly, so you’ll see noticeable progress in just weeks. It’s also adaptable—it thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light if needed.

Care Tips

Keep the soil lightly moist, but don’t let it sit in water. Pinching back the stems encourages bushier growth. If it gets leggy, you can easily propagate cuttings in water.

Pet Safety

Safe for both cats and dogs, so no need to panic if your pet gets curious.


Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

If you love the look of palms but don’t have much light, the parlor palm is a perfect fit. Its delicate fronds bring a tropical feel without demanding too much attention.

Why It’s Great

This slow-growing palm adapts well to low-light conditions, making it ideal for apartments or dimmer rooms. It’s also one of the most pet-safe palms available.

Care Tips

Keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged. Parlor palms dislike direct sun, which can scorch their leaves. They appreciate occasional misting to boost humidity.

Pet Safety

Completely non-toxic, so it’s safe even if your pets brush against or nibble on it.


Burro’s Tail (Sedum morganianum – with Caution)

For succulent lovers, burro’s tail is a stunning trailing option with plump, bead-like leaves. However, it requires a bit more caution around pets.

Why It’s Great

Its unique, trailing stems make it a standout in hanging planters or high shelves where its long tendrils can drape down. It’s drought-tolerant, so it’s great for those who sometimes forget to water.

Care Tips

This succulent loves bright, indirect light. Water sparingly—only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can cause root rot. Be gentle when handling it, as the leaves detach easily.

Pet Safety

While not highly toxic, burro’s tail can cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large amounts. It’s best kept out of reach of pets who like to chew on plants.

Conclusion

Adding pet-safe, low-light hanging plants to your home is a fantastic way to enhance your space without risking your furry friends’ health. From the air-purifying Spider Plant to the lush Boston Fern, there’s a perfect plant for every corner. Ready to green up your home? Pick your favorite and start hanging! 🌿

Photo of Harper Dawson
Written by Harper Dawson on