Plants for Hanging from the Ceiling

Hanging plants from the ceiling can transform any interior space, adding a sense of life, greenery, and tranquility. However, not all plants are suitable for hanging from the ceiling. As an indoor plant designer, it’s important to carefully consider factors like plant size, weight, light exposure, and growth habit when choosing species. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 20 of the best options for hanging houseplants from the ceiling, along with care tips and considerations for each. Whether you prefer trailing vines, twining strands, lush foliage, or cascading stems, there’s a wonderful world of plants that are perfect for hanging from above. Let’s get started!

1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

The spider plant is a classic trailing houseplant that features arching ribbon-like leaves that can grow quite tall. Native to tropical regions of Africa, spider plants are very adaptable and easy to care for. They tolerate low to bright indirect light. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Spider plants also produce suckers that can be cut and propagated. Their easy trailing nature makes these great ceiling-hanging plants.

2. Wandering Youth (Tradescantia zebrina)

Known for its striking purple and silver-striped leaves, wandering youth is a trailing vine that can grow for a long time. Provide bright, indirect light to encourage rapid growth. These trailing plants require frequent watering and high humidity. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Trailing youth makes a lovely hanging plant with its layered purple leaves.

3. String of Pearls (Senecio rollianus)

String of pearls gets its name from its distinctive round, pea-like leaves that come in bead-like strands. Native to South Africa, it thrives in bright light conditions and tolerates some direct sun. Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings. Their light hanging filaments make string of pearl trees ideal for ceiling mounts or hanging containers. Keep away from pets, as they are toxic.

4. Philodendrons

Philodendrons are classic houseplants, prized for their heart-shaped leaves and vine-like growth habit. Varieties such as Brazilian, Mycenae, and Green Heartleaf Philodendron are excellent choices for ceiling hanging containers. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Most philodendrons thrive in moderate to bright indirect light. Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Mist the leaves occasionally to increase humidity.

5. Hoya Hindu Ropes (Hoya carnosa compacta)

The Hindu Rope Hoya is aptly named for its twisted, rope-like leaves. This slow-growing but steady-growing trailing succulent appreciates bright indirect light. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again. Hoyas bloom profusely when they are slightly rooted. Mist occasionally to provide additional humidity. The Hindu Rope Hoya is a uniquely shaped trailing plant that is perfect for ceiling mounts or hanging containers.

6. Fuchsia (Fuchsia hybrida)

Few plants can match the vibrant colors of hanging fuchsias. This popular basket plant produces delicate teardrop flowers in red, purple, white, pink, and many other colors. Native to South America, fuchsias grow best in cool climates with mild summers. They need consistent moisture and bright indirect sunlight. Pinch off trailing tips to encourage bushiness. Hummingbirds love fuchsia flowers!

7. Chain of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii)

Chain of Hearts Vine is a succulent plant that is perfect for hanging pots. Native to South Africa, the Hearts Chain Vine has distinctive heart-shaped leaves on the stems. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Mist occasionally for extra humidity. For lush hanging displays, water or spread on sphagnum moss.

8. Peperomia Tetragona

With its lush, oval, succulent leaves, Peperomia Tetragona makes a lush addition to hanging collections. It thrives best in bright, indirect light. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again. Peperomias, native to South America, are generally easy-care plants, making them great for beginner gardeners. Mist occasionally for extra humidity around the leaves.

9. Burrows Teya (Sedum morganium)

With its blue-green leaves tightly packed on wiry stems, Burrow's Tail is a unique succulent that's perfect for hanging displays. Native to southern Mexico and Honduras, it grows best in full sun. Allow the soil to dry out well between waterings. It may struggle with excess moisture. Mist occasionally for humidity. Show off its beautiful trailing leaves by mounting a canopy or hanging Burrow's Tail.