Every home has that one spot where plants go to… fade away. Maybe it’s the hallway that never sees direct sun, or the living-room corner that’s more “moody shadows” than “bright oasis.”
Good news: it doesn’t have to stay empty!
Plenty of plants actually prefer the softer glow of indirect light. The trick is knowing which ones will thrive there—and how to keep them happy with just a little attention.
Let’s explore eight gorgeous hanging plants that don’t mind the shade. They’ll green up your home and ask for almost nothing in return.
8 Low Light Hanging Indoor Plants
Boston Fern
Source Pinterest: The Fox Decor
Why It Works: Boston ferns love humidity and indirect light—the same combo found in most bathrooms or shaded porches. Their arching fronds bring that “mini jungle” vibe without demanding full sun.
Best Conditions: Bright, indirect light; consistent moisture; temperatures around 18–24°C.
Pro Tip: If your fern’s fronds crisp up, it’s begging for humidity. Mist it daily or set the pot on a tray of pebbles and water to boost moisture.
Common Mistake: Letting it dry out. Once the soil turns crunchy, it’s tough to revive.
String of Pearls
Source Pinterest: LittlePieceOfMe
Why It Works: This quirky succulent looks like a green beaded curtain cascading down your planter. It’s stunning, minimal, and practically maintenance-free.
Best Conditions: Filtered sunlight or bright shade, well-draining soil, and a thorough watering only when the soil is bone dry.
Pro Tip: Trim long strands and replant the cuttings—they’ll root easily and make great gifts.
Common Mistake: Overwatering. Remember, it’s a succulent, not a swamp dweller.
Devil’s Ivy
Source Pinterest: The Gorgeous List
Why It Works: Pothos is the plant version of that unbothered friend who thrives anywhere. Low light? Fine. Missed watering? No problem. It’s a powerhouse for beginners.
Best Conditions: Moderate to low light, average room humidity, and well-drained soil.
Pro Tip: If you want fuller growth, pinch off the tips to encourage branching.
Common Mistake: Leaving it in soggy soil—pothos roots like to breathe.
Burro’s Tail
Source Pinterest: Flickr
Why It Works: Each plump, overlapping leaf looks like a braid of soft green jewels. It’s one of the most photogenic hanging plants around.
Best Conditions: Indirect sunlight, airy soil, and very little water. Think “dry desert air,” not “rainforest.”
Pro Tip: Handle with care—those chunky leaves snap off if you breathe too hard on them.
Common Mistake: Frequent watering. Less is more here.
Asparagus Fern
Source Pinterest: Nicole Mom Always Finds Out
Why It Works: Despite the name, it’s not a true fern—but its feathery fronds add delicate texture and a graceful, soft look to dim corners.
Best Conditions: Indirect or filtered light, humid air, and soil that’s slightly moist but never soggy.
Pro Tip: This one loves a summer vacation outdoors in the shade—just bring it back before nights drop below 10°C.
Common Mistake: Placing it in full sun. It’ll yellow faster than a forgotten banana.
Green Ivy
Source Pinterest: MyTastefulSpace 🌿 Plant Blogger & Interior Plant Designer
Why It Works: Ivy is a timeless trailing beauty that tolerates shade beautifully. It’s ideal for hanging baskets or letting it spill from shelves.
Best Conditions: Low to medium light, cooler rooms, and moist but well-drained soil.
Pro Tip: Snip off any leggy vines—this encourages dense, bushy growth.
Common Mistake: Keeping it near pets—ivy isn’t pet-safe, so hang it high and out of reach.
Morning Glory
Source Pinterest: Flickr
Why It Works: You’d think “low light” and “blooms” don’t mix, but morning glories can surprise you. Even in partial shade, they produce charming, trumpet-shaped flowers.
Best Conditions: Indirect light, well-draining soil, and steady moisture.
Pro Tip: Rotate the pot weekly to keep vines growing evenly toward the light.
Common Mistake: Expecting full-sun blooms indoors—light levels will affect flowering intensity.
Spider Plant
Source Pinterest: Balcony Garden Web
Why It Works: This plant practically raises itself. It thrives in shade, spits out baby “spiderettes,” and tolerates just about any level of neglect.
Best Conditions: Indirect light, moderate watering, and occasional feeding with a balanced houseplant fertilizer.
Pro Tip: Snip and replant those spiderettes in water to multiply your collection for free.
Common Mistake: Fluoride sensitivity—if the leaf tips brown, switch to distilled or rainwater.
Final Thoughts: Green Corners, Happy Home
You don’t need a greenhouse or perfect sunlight to grow a lush indoor space. These low-light hanging plants prove that even shady corners can feel alive and vibrant. Start with one or two—Boston fern for a tropical touch or Devil’s Ivy for an easy win—and see how your home transforms.
Remember, every thriving leaf is a little victory. And if something wilts? Welcome to the club—every gardener’s been there. Just adjust, re-pot, and try again. That’s half the fun.