
Best Low Light Hanging Plants for Small Office Spaces (2025)
Looking for the best low-light hanging plants for small office spaces? Discover top picks, care tips, and styling ideas to brighten up your workspace effortlessly!
Introduction
Did you know that adding plants to your office can boost productivity by up to 15%? Even in dimly lit spaces, the right hanging plants can thrive and transform your workspace into a lush, inviting retreat. If you’re struggling with limited natural light or tight office corners, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll explore the best low-light hanging plants perfect for small offices, along with easy-care tips and creative ways to display them. Whether you’re a busy professional or a plant newbie, these green companions will bring life to your desk without demanding too much attention. Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Hanging Plants for Small Offices?
Maximizes Vertical Space in Tight Areas
Small offices often lack floor space, making traditional potted plants impractical. Hanging plants solve this problem by utilizing vertical space—whether suspended from the ceiling, mounted on walls, or placed on high shelves. This way, you can enjoy greenery without sacrificing precious desk or floor real estate.
Improves Air Quality and Reduces Stress
Plants are natural air purifiers, removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from indoor environments. Studies also show that having plants in workspaces can lower stress levels and boost productivity. Hanging plants bring these benefits without cluttering your workspace, making them ideal for compact offices.
Adds Aesthetic Appeal Without Cluttering Desks
A well-placed hanging plant can transform a dull office corner into a vibrant focal point. Unlike desk plants that compete with paperwork and office supplies, hanging varieties stay out of the way while still enhancing the room’s ambiance.
Perfect for Low-Light Environments
Many offices suffer from limited natural light, especially those with few or no windows. Fortunately, several hanging plants thrive in low-light conditions where floor plants might struggle. This makes them a smart choice for cubicles, basements, or interior offices with minimal sunlight.
Top 7 Low Light Hanging Plants for Small Offices
1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is a favorite for office spaces because it’s nearly indestructible. It thrives in low light, tolerates irregular watering, and grows quickly, producing long, trailing vines. Its heart-shaped leaves come in various shades, from classic green to variegated gold or marble patterns.
2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are excellent air purifiers and adapt well to low-light conditions. They produce “spiderettes”—tiny offshoots that dangle from the mother plant, adding visual interest. These are also easy to propagate, so you can share them with coworkers!
3. Philodendron Heartleaf
With its glossy, heart-shaped leaves, this philodendron is a fast grower that does well in hanging baskets. It’s adaptable to low light and forgiving of occasional neglect, making it perfect for busy office environments.
4. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is a drought-tolerant champion that thrives in dim lighting. Its waxy, dark green leaves add a modern touch, and it requires minimal care—just water it sparingly and let it do its thing.
5. String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
If you want something unique, the String of Pearls is a showstopper. This trailing succulent features bead-like leaves that cascade beautifully from hanging planters. It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels with reduced watering.
6. Peperomia
Peperomias come in many varieties, all compact and low-maintenance. Their thick leaves retain water, making them drought-resistant. Some types, like the Peperomia Hope, have trailing stems perfect for hanging displays.
7. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
A classic trailing vine, English Ivy filters airborne toxins and adds a touch of elegance. It thrives in low to moderate light but may grow slower in dim conditions. Regular pruning keeps it looking neat and prevents overgrowth.
How to Care for Low Light Hanging Plants
Watering: Less Is More
Overwatering is the most common killer of office plants. Most low-light hanging plants prefer their soil to dry out between waterings. Stick your finger an inch into the soil—if it’s dry, it’s time to water. If not, wait a few more days.
Light Requirements: Indirect Is Key
While these plants tolerate low light, they still need some indirect sunlight. North-facing windows or spots a few feet away from east/west-facing windows work well. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch leaves.
Fertilizing: Feed Sparingly
During the growing season (spring and summer), use a diluted liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. In fall and winter, most plants enter dormancy and don’t need extra nutrients.
Pruning & Maintenance: Keep Them Tidy
Trim leggy or yellowing growth to encourage bushier, healthier foliage. Dust can accumulate on leaves, blocking light absorption—wipe them gently with a damp cloth every few weeks.
Styling Tips for Hanging Plants in Small Offices
Use Space-Saving Hangers
Macramé hangers or wall-mounted hooks keep plants off desks and floors. For a minimalist look, try geometric planters or clear acrylic hangers that blend into modern office decor.
Mix and Match Trailing Plants
Combine different trailing plants (like Pothos and String of Pearls) for a layered, dynamic effect. Varying textures and colors create visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Hang Near Partitions or Shelves
Place hanging plants near cubicle dividers or shelves to create natural partitions. This softens harsh office lines and adds a touch of nature to functional spaces.
Supplement with LED Grow Lights
If your office has almost no natural light, small LED grow lights can help. Clip-on or pendant-style lights provide the necessary spectrum without taking up desk space.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Office Hanging Plants
Overwatering (Leading to Root Rot)
It’s easy to kill plants with kindness. Most low-light hanging plants prefer drier soil—overwatering leads to root rot. When in doubt, wait a few extra days before watering.
Placing in Direct Sunlight
Even if your office lacks light, don’t move plants into direct sun to compensate. Harsh sunlight can scorch leaves, especially for shade-loving varieties like Pothos or ZZ plants.
Choosing High-Humidity Plants
Unless you have a humidifier, avoid tropical plants like ferns or Calatheas, which need constant moisture in the air. Stick to drought-tolerant options like ZZ plants or Spider Plants.
Ignoring Dust Buildup
Dusty leaves can’t photosynthesize efficiently. Wipe them down occasionally with a soft cloth or give them a gentle shower to keep them healthy and shiny.
Conclusion
Bringing greenery into your small office doesn’t have to be complicated—even in low-light conditions! With the right hanging plants like Pothos, Spider Plants, or String of Pearls, you can enjoy a fresher, more vibrant workspace with minimal effort. Ready to transform your office into a green oasis? Pick your favorite plant from our list, follow our care tips, and watch your space come alive! 🌿