The 7 Best Trailing Houseplants
Trailing houseplants bring a sense of life and movement to a room. They don't just sit on a shelf, they spill over it, creating soft lines and drawing the eye. Whether you hang them, place them high, or let them frame a window, these plants are perfect for adding natural texture to your space. They're also easier to care for than you might think, and many thrive in everyday indoor conditions. Here are some great options you can start with.
Pothos
If you're new to trailing plants, start here. Pothos is easy, fast-growing, and unfussy about light. It can handle low light, but give it bright, indirect sun and you'll be rewarded with longer vines and fuller leaves. Water when dry, and trim when it gets too long. You can root cuttings in water and grow even more via propagating, too. It’s as low-maintenance as they come and forgiving when neglected.
String of Pearls
With its round, bead-like leaves, String of Pearls is unique and eye-catching. It does best in bright light and doesn't like to be overwatered. It’s a succulent at heart, so let the soil dry out between waterings. Use a container with good drainage and avoid letting water sit on its roots. This one does well in hanging baskets where it has room to fall and grow freely.
Heartleaf Philodendron
The heartleaf philodendron brings a softer feel to indoor spaces. Its vines grow fast, and it stays lush with minimal care. It can tolerate lower light, but thrives in medium to bright spots. This plant doesn't like soggy roots, so water sparingly and be sure the pot drains well. If it gets leggy, just pinch the stems back to encourage fuller growth.
Tradescantia Zebrina
Also known as Wandering Dude, this plant stands out with purple, silver, and green striped leaves. It's a good choice if you want something with more color than just green. It grows quickly and looks great cascading down a shelf, just be sure to give it bright light so it keeps its vibrant color. It appreciates slightly moist soil, but don't let it stay wet. Pinch back the tips often to keep it from getting too spindly.
English Ivy
Though often thought of as an outdoor plant, English Ivy adapts well indoors if it gets enough light. It's elegant and structured, growing in neat vines that can be trained up or allowed to hang. It likes cooler rooms and appreciates some humidity. Avoid letting it dry out completely, but make sure it isn’t sitting in water constantly either. It’s a little more sensitive than other vining plants, but still manageable with the right care.
String of Hearts
String of Hearts is a favorite for good reason. Its vines grow long and thin, with heart-shaped leaves that are green with silver markings. This one grows slowly but steadily and doesn't need much water. Let the soil dry before watering again, and give it bright, indirect light. Over time, it creates long, graceful strands that work well hanging or in a high spot where they can fall freely.
Spider Plant
While not a traditional trailer at first glance, the spider plant earns its place with its "babies" that hang down like a waterfall of greenery. It grows best in bright, indirect light and likes evenly moist soil. It's also one of the easiest plants to propagate, as each baby can be potted and grown on its own. It's a forgiving plant, great for beginners, and adapts to a range of indoor conditions.
Trailing plants are a great way to elevate a space or simply introduce an interesting addition to your houseplant collection. Whether you’re working with a tiny windowsill or a large shelf, there’s a trailing plant that can fit your space and lifestyle. Start with one, get to know it, and let your indoor garden grow from there.