Hanging Plants

Hanging & Trailing Plants: Actual Growth Pattern Explained

True trailing plants naturally have a cascading growth habit. They grow long, arching, or drooping stems downward over edges. The stems lengthen progressively and begin to hang under their own weight. So, if you place such a plant in a basket, on a shelf, on a wall bracket, or in a high pot, it automatically becomes a hanging one. This adjective refers to the way it’s displayed. 

There’s another category that true trailing and hanging plants shouldn’t be confused with. These are spilling species. They can trail under certain conditions, for example, if there is no proper support system. The true trailing types include pothos, string of pearls, and burro’s tail. Asparagus fern and Silver spurflower are spilling, not trailing species. 

Indoor vs. Outdoor Hanging Plants Needs

The long list of hanging plants can be divided into two main categories: indoor and outdoor varieties. Each comes with its own set of needs, including watering and basket size requirements. 

Indoor species like Golden pothos or Heartleaf philodendron need low to medium indirect light and watering every 5-14 days depending on the type. They also prefer stable temperatures and tolerate drier air. Most outdoor species like petunias or lobelia need full or at least half-day sun. They need watering once or even twice a day during the peak heat. 

Also, outdoor species usually need larger pots, 12-18 inches in diameter, to retain water for a longer period. Indoor plants can thrive in 4-10-inch sizes.

How to Choose and Care for Hanging Plants

All hanging plants need a proper drainage system — that’s the fundamental rule. Without it, they become prone to root rot and fungal infection. Other care conditions vary depending on the species, so you can choose one that fits your expectations. 

For example, succulents need a lot less water than tropical species and at least 4-6 hours of direct sun. Indoor types, in general, need lighter fertilization compared to species growing outdoors.  On this page, you can find not only hanging plant names with pictures but also their full profiles, care recommendations, and environmental tips.