Exploring the realm of trailing succulent plants for hanging baskets is a delightful journey for plant enthusiasts seeking to adorn their living spaces with greenery. These vining succulents effortlessly enhance any decor with their cascading foliage. In this insightful piece, Madison Moulton, a seasoned gardening expert and passionate houseplant lover, shares her top picks of trailing succulents suitable for elevating your indoor garden aesthetic.
What lies beyond eye level in your container garden? The answer: above. Utilize hanging baskets to maximize vertical space both indoors and outdoors, creating an enchanting display of trailing plants that might otherwise go unnoticed amongst a collection of potted plants.
When selecting plants for hanging baskets, succulents are an excellent choice. Their low water requirements and ability to thrive in neglect make them ideal candidates for low-maintenance overhead displays.
Trailing Jade
Trailing Jade, scientifically known as Senecio Jacobsenii, also referred to as Kleinia petraea, boasts a cascade of succulent leaves on thick stems. This plant elegantly drapes over pots and hanging baskets, securing its position as a top choice for vertical gardening enthusiasts.
In fall and winter, Trailing Jade adorns itself with vibrant orange blossoms and displays maroon-hued leaves, offering a charming autumnal touch. With trailing stems that can grow up to 4 feet in length, this plant thrives in both full sun and partial shade, tolerating frost down to 20F. Avoid overwatering this beauty, as it flourishes in arid conditions.
Burro’s Tail
Sedum morganianum, commonly known as Burro’s Tail, mesmerizes with its dense arrangement of blue-green succulent leaves on elongated stems, reminiscent of a donkey’s tail. This visually striking plant, with stems reaching nearly 2 feet in length, requires gentle handling due to its fragile nature.
While Burro’s Tail is not primarily grown for its blooms, delicate red or light pink flowers may appear during the summer months at the tips of its trailing strands. Thriving in ample sunlight and well-draining soil, this Mexican native can adapt to cooler climates, needing infrequent watering and biannual fertilization during periods of growth.
Elephant Bush
Hailing from South Africa, the Portulacaria afra, popularly known as Elephant Bush, charms with its arching red stems cascading over hanging baskets, adorned with delightful rounded green leaves.
This versatile plant, cherished for its ecological benefits as a carbon sequester, can thrive in various conditions, ranging from arid to humid. Aptly named due to its popularity as an elephant snack, this succulent is not only edible for humans but also serves as a tasty addition to salads, featuring a tangy flavor and crisp texture. Plant the Portulacaria afra in well-draining soil under full sun or partial shade and enjoy its pink to mauve blooms in early summer.
Christmas Cactus
The Holiday Cactus, scientifically known as Schlumbergera buckleyi, showcases segmented succulent leaves that burst into vibrant red, pink, yellow, or white flowers, adding a festive touch just in time for Christmas due to its timed bloom.
Hailing from the tropical regions of Southeast Brazil, these succulents thrive under different conditions compared to arid succulents. They thrive in partial or dappled shade, requiring high humidity and temperatures, along with more frequent fertilization for robust flowering.
Encouraging these succulents to blossom during the holiday season can be a challenge. To trigger flowering, they typically need 6-8 weeks of cool, short days. However, you can expedite this process by mimicking shorter daylight periods and cooler temperatures or even subjecting them to darkness and cold for 12 to 24 hours to induce blooming.
Coral Cactus
Observe the unique form of the Coral Cactus with its segmented stems resembling oceanic coral formations. Its botanical name, Rhipsalis cereuscula, originating from Brazil, thrives under filtered light, cautioning against excessive sunlight to prevent stem burns, especially when temperatures drop and their tips turn reddish.
To flourish, Coral Cactus demands nutrient-rich soil, a consistent fertilizing schedule, and adequate watering. Ensure the soil dries between watering sessions and enhance drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Similar to the Christmas Cactus, the Coral Cactus can be coaxed into blooming by subjecting it to darkness and lowering temperatures. The flowering occurs at the tips of branching stems, presenting an array of colors including pink, purple, and white.
Mistletoe Cactus
This epiphytic cactus, christened as Spaghetti Cactus or Chain Cactus and scientifically known as Rhipsalis baccifera, appears designed for graceful hanging baskets. Hailing from Central and South America, where it thrives in tropical climates boasting high rainfall and humidity, it is confined to pot growth and reaches about 6 feet in length.
During winter and spring, dainty white to green flowers grace its stems, subsequently followed by berries in shades of white, pink, or red, adding to its allure.
To thrive, this plant necessitates well-draining soil and frequent watering. Position it in a brightly lit area with filtered light indoors and shield it from direct sunlight outdoors.
Ruby Necklace
Othonna capensis ‘Ruby Necklace’ introduces a low-growing succulent variant with spiraling narrow cylindrical leaves enfolding green stems. This cultivar flaunts vibrant maroon trailing stems, with leaves transitioning from green to purple and burgundy hues.
Boasting striking daisy-like yellow blooms, this succulent can grace your surroundings with year-round flowering, making it an ideal candidate for hanging baskets.
Thriving in arid conditions, the Ruby Necklace succulent thrives best when shielded from intense sunlight, particularly during summer, with a preference for gentle morning sun exposure.
Dancing Bones
This graceful epiphyte, known as Dancing Bones and Drunkard’s Dream, features jointed stems that gracefully tower upwards before cascading over hanging baskets in a whimsical fashion. The segmented stems are intricately connected, mimicking bone joints in appearance.
Hailing from the lush rainforests of Brazil, this tropical succulent thrives in similar conditions. During the spring season, delicate yellow blossoms adorn the elongated stems, adding a pop of color to its eccentric structure.
As the winter months approach, Dancing Bones enters a dormant phase only to re-emerge vigorously in the spring, ready for regular watering routines. Allow the soil to thoroughly dry between watering sessions, supplementing with occasional liquid fertilizer applications in the springtime. For optimal growth, position the plant where it can bask in bright, indirect sunlight when cultivated outdoors.
Starfish Flower
Formerly known as Stapelia variegata and now recognized as Orbea variegata, this succulent showcases remarkable five-petaled flowers that, despite their beauty, emit a distinct and somewhat unpleasant odor, luring flies and insects to their side.
Resembling a carnivorous plant visually, the Starfish Flower, native to sunny South Africa, thrives indoors when placed in a warm, well-lit location. However, precautions must be taken during the flowering period in summer, requiring occasional outdoor exposure for optimal growth.
This intriguing plant features thick, cactus-like stems and a cascading growth pattern, adding a unique touch to any collection. To maintain its vibrancy, provide ample watering compared to traditional succulents while ensuring efficient drainage to prevent rot.
String of Pearls
Hailing from the daisy family, Curio rowleyanus (formerly Senecio rowleyanus) presents a delightful trailing plant featuring strings of fleshy green pearls that can grow up to 35 inches in ideal conditions.
Indigenous to the arid Southwest African region, this succulent vine thrives in shaded environments, often nestled amongst other plants and rocks to prevent sun damage. As a favored indoor plant, ensure ample bright light and well-draining soil for successful growth.
When cultivating these plants, pot size plays a crucial role; opt for smaller pots to prevent soil saturation and potential rot. Water sparingly, every two weeks contingent upon environmental factors, and administer diluted fertilizer in the spring for flourishing elongated stems.
String of Hearts
Ceropegia linearis subsp woodii, commonly referred to as Ceropegia woodii, enchants as an easily cultivated trailing plant adored for its cascading nature. Preferring semi-shaded spots, this plant thrives in well-placed indoor hanging baskets, though sensitive to frost – an issue easily managed indoors.
The String of Hearts features slender stems showcasing petite, heart-shaped leaves featuring a silver-green hue with a pinkish underside, emanating a visually striking appeal. Tubular structures resembling potatoes give rise to these delicate stems that bloom upright with pinkish, bulbous bases.
In optimal conditions, flowering occurs in the summer and fall, potentially continuing year-round, showcasing the plant’s enduring beauty. Remember to position it in well-lit areas to maintain its unique charm when cultivated indoors.
String of Nickels
String of Nickels, or Button Orchid, known as Dischidia nummularia, boasts captivating dark-green cascading foliage that can grow up to 3 feet indoors when provided with optimal conditions.
This plant features lengthy stems bearing flat oval-shaped leaves resembling coins, which also earn it the moniker String of Coins. Thriving as an epiphyte, it thrives best in well-draining potting or orchid mix with increased humidity. Delicate yellow or white flowers embellish this succulent during spring and summer.
To flourish, String of Nickels necessitates bright indirect sunlight, as direct sunlight may harm its fragile leaves. Watering should occur every 2 weeks once the soil dries out, with protection against frost when cultivated outdoors.
Million Hearts
Million Hearts, scientifically termed Dischidia ruscifolia, showcases lush green heart-shaped leaves paired oppositely along its elongated stems, stretching around 3 feet. Delicate white blossoms adorn its nodes in late spring and early summer.
Thriving in pots and hanging baskets, Million Hearts naturally thrives in Asia and the Philippines, typically perched atop trees.
Requiring abundant humidity and moisture, these plants thrive in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging. Position them in well-lit indoor spaces, maintaining moderation in light exposure to prevent legginess or leaf damage.
String of Dolphins
Recognized as Curio x peregrinis, the String of Dolphins, also called Dolphin Plant or Flying Dolphins, reflects its name through its leaves resembling playful dolphins.
Featuring elongated, slender stems adorned with succulent dolphin-shaped leaves, this remarkable plant bursts with whimsy. During spring and early summer, it blooms with puff balls of flowers in white and yellow, requiring weekly watering in the warmer months, tapering in fall and winter.
Position String of Dolphins in well-lit spaces with indirect sunlight, opting for well-draining soil to avert rot. Allow the plant some container crowding for optimal growth.
String of Tears
Curio radicans (previously known as Senecio radicans) is a succulent plant named after its leaves that resemble single green bananas hanging off thin stems, making it ideal for hanging baskets.
Under bright sunlight, the green leaves may turn red, and its tubular flowers give rise to fluffy balls on upright long stems that contrast against the trailing leaves. Delicate tiny white star-shaped flowers with curling stamens adorn the tips.
This plant thrives in well-draining soil with consistent moisture levels to avoid root rot. Placing it in a brightly lit indoor spot or partial shade outdoors is recommended.
Native to South Africa, this plant flourishes in household temperatures as long as it is shielded from cold drafts and excessive heat.
String of Buttons
Crassula perforata is a low-maintenance succulent characterized by triangular leaves growing on opposite sides of thin stems in a spiral pattern. Initially upright, the plant eventually trails over hanging baskets, forming thick strands up to 2 feet long. This hardy succulent can develop pink tones on its leaves with adequate light.
Thriving in sandy or cactus mix soil, this plant requires minimal watering and is tolerant of neglect, except for cold conditions. It’s advisable to bring these baskets indoors during winter in frost-prone regions.
Calico Kitten
From the popular crassula genus, Calico Kitten boasts an abundance of heart-shaped leaves on slender stems exhibiting green, pink, and white patterns.
Crassula pellucida ‘Variegata’ displays colors that intensify with light exposure, with reddish hues deepening. However, excessive light may cause sunburn, necessitating protection or indoor cultivation in freezing temperatures.
Minimal water, well-draining soil, and occasional fertilization in spring and summer are all this plant needs to thrive. Delicate white flowers appear on the stems’ ends in spring through summer.
Variegated Trailing Jade
Resembling Calico Kitten, Crassula Sarmentosa ‘Variegata’ (or ‘Comet’) showcases stunning yellow and green striped heart-shaped leaves, with red-tinged serrated edges, clustered on lengthy drooping red stems. Groups of pink and white flowers appear in fall.
This crassula variant is fuss-free, requiring minimal watering and thriving in well-draining sandy soil to avoid overwatering.
With a cactus mix, success is almost guaranteed. This rapid-growing plant is resilient under full sun or in semi-shaded spots, although indoors, it craves ample light for optimal growth.
Hindu Rope
For a captivating hanging basket display, consider Hoya carnosa compacta with its trailing vines boasting fleshy green twisted leaves. Also known as the Hindu Rope plant, it produces charming furry pink star-shaped flowers after a couple of years, typically during spring and summer.
When potting this hoya, utilize an orchid mix placing it in a spot receiving a minimum of 6 hours of bright light daily, avoiding frequent relocation as it prefers stability. Moderate watering is key, as the waxy leaves hold ample water for the plant’s well-being, and feed sparingly during the warmer months to prevent overfertilization.
Wax Plant
The Hoya carnosa ‘Variegata’ features succulent, waxy leaves with dark green edges and creamy stripes. Mature plants delight with clusters of soft pink star-shaped flowers in the warmer months. Provide bright, indirect sunlight to promote healthy growth and flowering, withholding feeding during the dormant winter months.
Silver Dollar Vine
Admire the Silver Dollar Vine, where the succulent, round leaves on thick stems cascade elegantly, resembling large coins with a silver hue. Water sparingly to avoid leaf wrinkling, and offer either partial shade, bright indirect light, or full sun. Once-a-year fertilization is all it needs to thrive.
Cliff Cotyledon
Cotyledon pendens, also known as Cliff Cotyledon or Little Cliff Bells, dangles charmingly with succulent globe leaves and vibrant orange bell blooms. Native to arid regions, this multi-branching beauty requires minimal watering and plentiful light for optimal growth. Suitable for colder climates if protected during frosty spells and transitioned indoors as needed.
Peanut Cactus
Reaching up to 6 inches, the Echinopsis chamaecereus has fleshy stems resembling peanut shells. Despite its spiky appearance, the plant’s bristles are surprisingly gentle. Adorned with orange or red funnel-shaped flowers, this species thrives under bright light and infrequent watering, particularly flourishing in arid conditions. It’s essential to avoid high humidity levels as this cactus prefers the dryness of its natural habitat, requiring a brief drop in temperature to induce spring blooms.
Fishbone Cactus
Identifiable by its wavy foliage, the Selenicereus anthonyanus, also known as Ric-Rac or Zig-Zag Cactus, originates from humid Mexican tropics. Reaching over 3 feet, this fast-growing succulent adorns itself with gorgeous pink and white night-blooming flowers, followed by fruits. Thriving in dappled shade and benefiting from bi-weekly diluted fertilization in warmer months, this humidity-loving cactus demands careful watering to prevent root dehydration. Proper drainage and suitable light exposure are crucial for its well-being.
Monkey’s Tail
Developing long trailing stems covered in fine white hairs, the Hildewintera colademononis, referred to as Monkey’s Tail, exhibits a growth pattern evolving to cascade over 8 feet. Beginning upright, its cylindrical ribbed structure adorned with sparse white spines eventually curves, showcasing dazzling reddish blooms during spring and summer. Careful watering, winter protection from frost exposure, and a well-aerated, well-draining soil mix establish optimal conditions for this species.
October Daphne
Spilling over from hanging baskets, the perennial Sedum sieboldii emanates pink-tinged leaves over seasons. Amid late summer and early fall, charming pink star-shaped clusters punctuate the erect stems, spanning approximately 10 inches. Ideal for ground coverage or potted arrangements, this species thrives in well-drained soil with occasional watering and benefits from deadheading to stimulate further blossoming.
Little Missy Sedum
Sedum ‘Little Missy’ is a delightful hybrid evergreen perennial with small rosettes of grey-green leaves edged in pale green and hints of pink.
In the summertime, this charming succulent adorns itself with clusters of pink flowers on dainty stems. Whether cascading from pots or spreading elegantly as a ground cover in gardens, it never fails to impress.
Thriving in well-draining soil, especially slightly sandy and alkaline substrates, ‘Little Missy’ displays its best in full sun or bright indoor light. Remember to water promptly as the soil dries out.
Image Credit: Gail Frederick via Flickr (Image Use Allowed With Attribution)
Lantern Flower
Ceropegia haygarthii is a mesmerizing succulent characterized by its thick climbing stems that can reach impressive lengths. Adorned with pale green leaves that intensify to a brighter hue at the tips, it’s a botanical marvel.
The exotic-looking flowers emerge like peculiar lanterns, featuring long tubes in marbled burgundy, cream, and green hues. Topping off with a cluster of spiny flesh, they create a distinctive star-like appearance.
This plant thrives in warmer environments and demands some shelter during cooler spells. Cultivate it in partial shade or filtered light within rich, well-draining soil, and remember to water it regularly to maintain its vigor.
Mezoo Trailing Red
Dorotheanthus-bellidiformis ‘Mezoo Trailing Red’ is renowned for its vivid red blooms adorning succulent, heart-shaped variegated leaves. With stems capable of reaching 8 inches, it’s a striking beauty.
Basked in full sun but tolerating partial shade, this drought-tolerant plant graces your space with summertime blooms while adorning the rest of the year with its captivating variegated leaves.
In colder regions, treat it as an annual or provide winter shelter indoors. Water sparingly, ensuring the soil dries out before giving it a drink, especially more frequent in warmer conditions while ensuring proper drainage.
Ice Plant
Delosperma lehmannii (also known as Corpuscularia lehmanni) is a standout succulent distinguished by its plump triangular leaves, originating from cold-tolerant arid regions.
These ice plants shine as indoor favorites, trailing gracefully from hanging baskets, showcasing their bright yellow or orange flowers that bloom in spring and summer.
To foster abundant growth, plant in well-draining soil, preferably in full sun, though it can handle partial shade. Water sparingly to avoid waterlogging and expect some seasonal dieback in winter, protecting it from frost.
Final Thoughts
Armed with insights on top trailing succulents for hanging baskets, the delightful task remains of selecting your next indoor green companion! How about not limiting yourself to just one when the choices are so captivating? These plants are fuss-free and ideal additions to your indoor green space. Why not indulge in a few?
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