
Top Low Light Hanging Plants Perfect for Small Dark Rooms
Brighten up your dim spaces with these top low light hanging plants! Discover the best trailing and cascading plants that thrive in small, dark rooms—perfect for apartments, offices, and cozy corners.
Introduction
Do you have a dark corner that needs a touch of greenery? Not all plants need bright sunlight to thrive! In fact, many stunning hanging plants flourish in low light, making them ideal for small apartments, windowless bathrooms, or shady office spaces. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned plant parent, this guide will introduce you to the best low light hanging plants that bring life to even the dimmest rooms. Let’s dive in!
Best Low Light Hanging Plants for Dark Spaces
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
If you’re looking for a nearly indestructible hanging plant, pothos is your best bet. Its heart-shaped leaves cascade beautifully, making it perfect for shelves or hanging baskets. It thrives in low light and can even tolerate fluorescent office lighting. Plus, it’s forgiving if you forget to water it occasionally.
Philodendron Heartleaf
Another fantastic option is the philodendron heartleaf. This fast-growing plant produces lush, trailing vines that look stunning in hanging planters. It adapts well to low-light conditions and doesn’t demand much attention—just occasional watering when the soil feels dry.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are a classic choice for hanging displays, especially since they produce adorable little “spiderettes” that dangle from the mother plant. They do well in indirect light and are great for beginners. Bonus: they’re also excellent air purifiers!
English Ivy (Hedera helix)
For a more traditional trailing vine, English ivy is a solid pick. It adapts well to low light and can add a touch of elegance to any space. Just be mindful of its growth—it can get a little wild if left unchecked, so occasional pruning helps keep it tidy.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
While not a traditional hanging plant, the ZZ plant’s upright growth can be styled in hanging planters for a modern look. It’s one of the toughest plants out there, surviving in near-darkness and requiring very little water. A great choice if you want something low-maintenance.
Care Tips for Low Light Hanging Plants
Watering
Overwatering is the biggest killer of low-light plants. Since they grow slower in dim conditions, they need less frequent watering. Always check the soil—let the top inch dry out before giving them a drink. If the leaves start yellowing, you might be overdoing it.
Humidity
Most low-light hanging plants, like pothos and philodendrons, love humidity. If your home is dry, mist them occasionally or place them on a pebble tray with water. Bathrooms with natural light can also be a great spot for these humidity lovers.
Fertilizing
During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your plants with a diluted liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. In winter, hold off—they’re not actively growing, so extra nutrients aren’t necessary.
Pruning
If your hanging plants start looking leggy, don’t hesitate to give them a trim. Cutting back long vines encourages bushier growth. You can even propagate the cuttings in water to grow new plants!
Pest Control
Spider mites and mealybugs love hanging plants. Keep an eye out for webbing or white cottony spots. Wiping the leaves with a damp cloth regularly helps prevent infestations. If pests do appear, a mix of water and mild soap usually does the trick.
Creative Ways to Display Hanging Plants in Small Spaces
Macramé Hangers
Macramé hangers add a bohemian vibe while saving shelf space. They’re perfect for trailing plants like pothos or philodendrons, letting their vines drape elegantly. Plus, they’re easy to adjust for the right height.
Wall-mounted Shelves
If floor space is limited, wall-mounted shelves are a great solution. Arrange a few small hanging plants in a row for a lush, vertical garden effect. Mix different varieties for texture and color contrast.
Ceiling Hooks
Ceiling hooks maximize vertical space, especially in tight rooms. Hang a few plants at different heights to create depth. Just make sure the hooks are secure—some trailing plants can get heavy over time!
Tiered Plant Stands
For a cascading green display, try a tiered plant stand. It allows you to group multiple hanging plants together without cluttering your space. This works especially well in corners or near windows.
Glass Terrariums
If you love humidity-loving plants like ferns, glass terrariums are a stylish way to display them. The enclosed environment keeps moisture in, and the glass adds a modern touch. Just avoid direct sunlight to prevent overheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Low Light Hanging Plants
Overwatering
Since low-light plants grow slower, they need less water. Overwatering leads to root rot—a common killer. Always check the soil before reaching for the watering can.
Ignoring Dust
Dust buildup on leaves blocks sunlight, making it harder for plants to photosynthesize. Wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth every few weeks to keep them clean and healthy.
Wrong Pot Size
A pot that’s too large holds excess moisture, increasing the risk of root rot. Choose a container that’s just slightly bigger than the root ball. Also, ensure it has drainage holes!
Neglecting Rotation
Plants in low light tend to grow toward the light source, leading to uneven growth. Rotate them every few weeks to keep them balanced and full.
Using Poor Soil
Low-light plants need well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots. A mix with perlite or orchid bark helps with drainage. Avoid heavy, dense soils that retain too much moisture.
By avoiding these mistakes and following simple care tips, your low-light hanging plants will thrive—even in the darkest corners of your home!
Conclusion
Transforming a dark room into a lush, green oasis is easier than you think! With the right low light hanging plants—like Pothos, Spider Plants, and Philodendrons—you can add life to any dim space. Remember to follow basic care tips, avoid common mistakes, and get creative with displays. Ready to brighten up your home? Pick your favorite plant and start hanging!