Let’s be real—basic houseplants are fine, but trailing plants? They do something. They hang, they spill, they bring drama to shelves, corners, and random empty spots you didn’t know needed a glow-up. From thick, stringy succulents to leafy green vines that grow like they’ve got something to prove, these trailing picks add movement, texture, and way more personality to your space.
The first 20 are all about that unique factor, and the bonus 10? They’re the low-effort, high-impact types that instantly make any corner look styled on purpose. No plant styling skills required—just a place to let them hang.
1. String of Hearts
Ever fallen for a plant on sight? That’s the String of Hearts—with delicate, heart-shaped leaves that trail beautifully and sometimes show off a hint of variegation. It loves bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and a dry spell between waterings.
It’s easy to propagate, making it a fave for new plant parents. I keep mine on a shelf near the window, and it adds just the right amount of cozy charm.
2. Devil’s Ivy
Be careful where you put it—once Devil’s Ivy starts growing, it’s not slowing down. This fast-climbing beauty is loved for its streaky green-and-yellow leaves and ability to thrive just about anywhere, from low light corners to bright indirect spots.
It’s basically the definition of low-maintenance, which makes it perfect for beginners. Just don’t forget about it… or it might take over the whole shelf (been there, done that).
3. Spider Plant
A classic choice for indoor gardeners, yet it never goes out of style. The Spider Plant features long, arching leaves with striking green and white stripes. It’s incredibly easy to care for and remarkably tough. This plant prefers bright, indirect light and occasional watering.
It readily produces little plantlets that can be propagated to share with friends. The Spider Plant is perfect for hanging baskets, where its leaves can spill over the sides beautifully.
4. Burro’s Tail
This one’s a favorite for bright spots thanks to its chunky, trailing leaves. Burro’s Tail is a low-effort succulent that stores water in its plump stems, so it handles drought like a pro.
It doesn’t need much—just sunlight and the occasional deep watering. The only catch? The leaves fall off easily, so it’s best left alone once it’s settled. Great for shelves or hanging pots where it can grow without getting bumped every five minutes.
5. English Ivy
If you’re after that classic, put-together look, English Ivy is a solid go-to. It adapts easily to different light conditions but does best with bright, indirect light.
Its trailing vines and deep green leaves add structure and style, whether it’s climbing a trellis or hanging off a shelf. Bonus: it helps clean the air, too. Just give it regular trims to keep things tidy and encourage fuller growth. It’s the kind of plant that quietly pulls everything together.
6. String of Pearls
Quirky and captivating, this plant looks like a cascade of green pearls. It’s known as the String of Pearls, an eye-catching succulent with small, bead-like leaves. This plant needs bright, indirect light and sandy, well-draining soil to thrive.
Avoid overwatering; let the soil dry out completely between waterings. It’s a fantastic conversation starter and an excellent fit for minimalist interiors.
7. Heartleaf Philodendron
A plant even brown thumbs can love! The Heartleaf Philodendron is incredibly forgiving and adaptable. Its glossy, heart-shaped leaves can bring a touch of the tropics to any indoor space.
This plant thrives in low to medium light and tolerates neglect, making it ideal for busy individuals. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and keeps it looking tidy. It’s a staple for indoor gardeners.
8. Boston Fern
Looking to bring in some real greenery? Boston Fern is a great pick with its full, feathery fronds that instantly make any space feel more alive. It prefers indirect light and lots of humidity, so it’s right at home in a steamy bathroom or a spot with regular misting.
The soil should stay evenly moist—not too dry, not soaking wet. It does ask for a little extra attention, but when it’s thriving, it’s one of the best-looking plants you can have around.
9. Peperomia
Compact yet full of personality, the Peperomia is a versatile trailing plant with a variety of leaf shapes and colors. It adapts well to different light conditions, preferring bright, indirect light. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Its small size makes it perfect for tight spaces, adding a pop of green without overwhelming the area. Peperomia is a delightful addition to any plant collection.
10. Maidenhair Vine
Light and airy, this plant adds a sense of grace to any room. The Maidenhair Vine features tiny, delicate leaves that create a soft, lacy appearance.
It thrives in bright, indirect light and likes its soil consistently moist. Regular trimming encourages fuller growth. Its charmingly delicate look makes it a favorite for hanging baskets and high shelves.
11. String of Bananas
Looking for a playful addition to your plant collection? The String of Bananas might be just what you need. This succulent features trailing stems lined with banana-shaped leaves.
Bright, indirect light and well-draining soil are its best friends. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to keep it healthy. It’s perfect for hanging baskets or quirky planters.
12. Tradescantia
Not many plants bring color like this one. Tradescantia stands out with bold purple and green striped leaves that trail effortlessly over shelves or hanging pots.
It does best in bright, indirect light to keep those colors vibrant but won’t throw a fit if conditions aren’t perfect. Keep the soil lightly moist and pinch it back now and then for a fuller look. Easygoing and eye-catching—what’s not to like?
13. Creeping Fig
A bit of a wild child, this plant loves to climb and trail. Creeping Fig is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of indoor gardening adventure.
It thrives in bright, indirect light and requires regular watering to keep its soil evenly moist. Its small, heart-shaped leaves can cover walls or cascade from hanging baskets, making it a dynamic choice for indoor greenery.
14. Hoya Linearis
If texture is your thing, Hoya Linearis is definitely worth a spot. Its long, trailing stems with soft, narrow leaves bring a cool, unexpected look that works especially well in modern spaces.
It likes bright, indirect light and soil that drains fast. Water only when the soil’s completely dry—this one hates wet feet. The look is a little different from your typical houseplant, which is exactly what makes it stand out.
15. Wax Plant
Thick, shiny leaves and fragrant blooms make this plant a standout. The Wax Plant, also known as Hoya, is cherished for its waxy foliage and star-shaped flowers.
It thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Its long, trailing vines look stunning in hanging baskets or draped over shelves.
16. Lipstick Plant
Bright, bold blooms set this plant apart. The Lipstick Plant features tubular red flowers that emerge from darker buds, resembling a tube of lipstick. It prefers bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil.
Keep it away from cold drafts and dry air for best results. The vibrant flowers add a pop of color to any room, making it a cheerful addition to kitchens or living spaces.
17. Black-Eyed Susan Vine
Need a little color boost? Black-Eyed Susan Vine does the job with bright yellow-orange flowers and bold dark centers that pop against its green leaves.
It grows fast, climbs easily, and loves bright, indirect light. Keep the soil consistently moist, and it’ll keep blooming. Great for hanging baskets or giving trellises some personality.
18. Golden Pothos
Hardy and forgiving, this plant is a popular choice for beginners. Golden Pothos features variegated leaves with green and yellow patterns. It tolerates a variety of light conditions, from low to bright indirect light.
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to avoid root rot. Its trailing vines are perfect for hanging baskets or climbing up trellises, adding a touch of nature to any room.
19. Climbing Hydrangea
Add a touch of elegance with this flowering plant. Climbing Hydrangea features woody vines and produces beautiful white flower clusters. It prefers bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil.
This plant requires a bit of support to climb, making it ideal for trellises or large planters. Its striking flowers and lush foliage make it a showstopper in any indoor space.
20. String of Dolphins
Ever seen dolphins hanging out on a shelf? The String of Dolphins features unique leaves that resemble jumping dolphins. It thrives in bright, indirect light and requires well-draining soil.
Let the soil dry out between waterings for optimal health. This quirky plant is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face and is perfect for playful, modern interiors.
21. Rex Begonia Vine
Vibrant colors and patterns make this plant a true work of art. The Rex Begonia Vine boasts colorful, textured leaves with intricate patterns.
It thrives in bright, indirect light and needs regular watering to keep its soil evenly moist. Its eye-catching foliage makes it a standout piece, ideal for hanging baskets or decorative planters.
22. Mistletoe Cactus
Thin, trailing stems give this plant a wispy, ethereal feel. The Mistletoe Cactus is a unique trailing plant that prefers bright, indirect light. Its stems are delicate yet resilient, requiring little maintenance.
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. This plant adds a touch of whimsy to any space and is perfect for modern or minimalist decor.
23. String of Turtles
Those tiny, patterned leaves definitely get attention. String of Turtles lives up to its name with round, turtle-shell-like foliage that trails neatly over the edge of pots.
It does best in bright, indirect light and prefers well-draining soil. Let it dry out between waterings—it doesn’t like soggy roots. Its compact size makes it ideal for small planters or hanging baskets where the details can really stand out.
24. Purple Heart
Bold and beautiful, this plant is hard to ignore. The Purple Heart features deep purple leaves that create a striking contrast in any setting. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Water when the soil feels dry. Its vibrant color makes it a standout choice for planters or hanging baskets, adding a pop of color to indoor spaces.
25. Rosary Vine
Tiny hearts on a string, anyone? The Rosary Vine features heart-shaped leaves with a stunning silver marbling. It thrives in bright, indirect light and sandy, well-draining soil.
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. This delicate plant is perfect for hanging planters, adding a touch of elegance to any space.
26. Grape Ivy
Versatile and easy-going, this plant is great for beginners. Grape Ivy features glossy leaves that create a lush, green backdrop. It prefers bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil.
Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages bushier growth. Its trailing vines are perfect for hanging baskets or climbing up supports.
27. Asparagus Fern
Feathery and fine, this plant adds a touch of elegance. The Asparagus Fern features delicate, arching fronds that create a soft, airy appearance. It thrives in bright, indirect light and high humidity.
Keep the soil consistently moist for best results. Its lush foliage is perfect for hanging baskets or as a centerpiece in a room.
28. Fiddle Leaf Fig
Those oversized, glossy leaves are hard to miss. Fiddle Leaf Fig brings serious presence to any room, making it a go-to for bold, modern spaces.
It likes bright, indirect light and soil that drains well. Wait until the top inch is dry before watering—consistency is key with this one. When it’s happy, it’s a total showstopper and easily becomes the centerpiece of your space.
29. Swedish Ivy
Charming and easy to grow, this plant is a favorite among indoor gardeners. Swedish Ivy features scalloped green leaves that trail beautifully, and we are obsessed.
It thrives in bright, indirect light and needs regular watering to keep its soil consistently moist. Its trailing habit makes it perfect for hanging baskets or planters, adding a touch of greenery to kitchens or living rooms.
30. Trailing Jade
With thick, fleshy leaves and a trailing growth habit, Trailing Jade is an easy pick for anyone who wants something low-fuss but still stylish.
It handles bright, indirect light like a champ and prefers well-draining soil. Let the soil dry completely between waterings—this one doesn’t need constant attention. Its sturdy look and tidy trailing make it a great fit for shelves or hanging planters in any modern space.