The Best Indoor Hanging Plants (That Even Black Thumbs Can't Kill)

Greenery livens up any space and fortunately, it doesn't take a keen eye for interior design to incorporate indoor hanging plants – studies have shown that plants may help reduce stress and reduce indoor air pollutants. And there’s no question that they make your space, no matter the size, look — and feel — more cozy and welcoming. If you're short on space, turn to these indoor hanging plants to infuse your home with live greenery. Not to mention, these pretty picks are a handy option if you have pets who like to nibble on houseplants or young children who pick up everything in sight.

Taking care of a hanging plant may sound tricky, but the same rules apply: Before sticking the plant, succulent, or flowers in a new planter, read up on how much water and sun it needs to thrive. A south-facing window is best for plants that need bright light, but many of the plants on this list can survive in low-light conditions. Novice green thumbs may opt for an adaptable plant like the heartleaf philodendron or pothos, according to NYBG director of glasshouse horticulture Marc Hachadourian. And whatever you do, make sure your planter has draining holes to prevent overwatering.

Where to hang indoor plants

Sun or shade? Wet or dry? Understanding your location and matching the plant to it will be a great start towards living with happy and healthy houseplants, according to Hachadourian. Think "right plant, right place." We tapped Bloomscape gardening expert Lindsay Pangborn for her expertise in displaying indoor hanging plants:

• Shelves: Hanging plants, thanks to their gracefully trailing vines, are a welcome complement to bookshelves, floating shelves, cabinet tops and more. Their lush growth softens the hard lines of shelving and adds a textural element to styled spaces.
• Plant stand: For floor or tabletop spaces, an elevated plant stand places your plant at center stage and gives it plenty of height to let trailing stems flow down. Don’t shy away from trimming the longest trailing stems back occasionally, advises Pangborn. New growth emerges near the cut area, allowing the plant to remain full and lush.
• Ceiling: Trailing plants coupled with hanging baskets are a smart way to use up additional space. Typically secured from a hook in the ceiling, hanging baskets can be placed anywhere within a room, which means great options for plants that need bright or direct light. If you don’t have a basket, a macrame hangeror hanging saucer work just as well and come in super cute styles. (Tip: Secure your hook into a ceiling joist or use a strong drywall anchor as watered baskets can get heavy).