Epipremnum aureum, often known as pothos.

What makes it outstanding: The best trailer for people who don’t want to do a lot of work. Pothos can handle dark corners, irregular watering, and dry air indoors. It’s easy to care for and grows quickly, making it great for novices.

Care snapshot:

Light: Not too bright, but not too dark either. It can live in low light, but it does best in bright light.
Water: Let the top 1–2 inches dry, then water well and let it drain.
Average humidity is acceptable.
Temperature: 60–85°F (16–29°C).
The plant grows as a trailing vine and can reach heights of 6 to 10 feet or more indoors over time.
Pet safety: Calcium oxalates are poisonous if eaten.
A chunky aroid mix for potting: 2 parts all-purpose potting mix, 1 part bark, and 1 part perlite or pumice.
Notes: Jade types that are all green do better in low light than types that are very variegated. If your vines become too long, cut them back and water the cuttings to encourage new growth, which you can use to fill your basket.
Bookshelves, curtain rods, and wall-mounted hooks that are positioned a few feet back from a window are great places for placing plants.

Philodendron hederaceum, often known as Heartleaf Philodendron

The reason it is so great is that this traditional heartleaf vine closely resembles pothos. It is gentle and romantic and can grow in low light. It is easy to shape and looks great in hanging planters.

Care snapshot:

Light: Not too much, but not too little.
Water the plant when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry, but avoid overwatering to prevent the soil from becoming too wet.
Humidity: An average humidity level or slightly higher is ideal.
The temperature should be between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (18 and 29 degrees Celsius).
Growth habit: A graceful vine that trails behind it; indoors, it can grow to be 6 to 8 feet long.
Pet safety: Dangerous if eaten.
Potting mix: an aroid blend that is chunky and drains well.
Notes: Varieties like “Brasil” (variegated) and “Lemon Lime” (chartreuse) can handle low light, but they look better in medium light. “Micans” (with soft leaves) is beautiful and does well in low light.
Great places: on a high shelf or hanging plant in the living room, bedroom, or office.

Satin Pothos (Scindapsus pictus)

The reason it is beneficial is that its leaves, which have silver spots, add depth to dark corners. While it doesn’t grow as quickly as pothos, it exhibits remarkable tolerance and beauty, boasting a soft, flowing drape.

Care snapshot:

Light: Low to medium, indirect; more light makes silver grow faster, but it doesn’t have to be bright for excellent development.
Water: Let the top 1–2 inches dry out; use less water in the winter.
Maintain an average humidity level of 50% or higher, if possible.
The temperature should be between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (16 and 29 degrees Celsius).
Growth habit: a trailing vine that grows 4 to 8 feet or more indoors.
Pets: If the plant is eaten, it can be harmful.
Add more perlite to the aroid-style potting mix to enhance its airiness.
Notes: Rotate plants for even growth; prune to encourage branching.
Great places: bedrooms, hallways, and rooms that face north.

Arrowhead Vine (Syngonium podophyllum)

What makes it outstanding: Juvenile arrow-shaped leaves dangle down gracefully from a pot, and the plant does better in low light than many other variegates. You may use it in several ways, such as trailing it or letting it climb a little moss pole.

A brief look at care:

Light: not too much, not too little, and not too direct. Green types do best in low light.
Water: Keep it a little damp but not too wet. Let the top inch dry.
The humidity level should range from average to high, ideally surpassing 50%.
The temperature is between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (16 and 29 degrees Celsius).
It grows by trailing or climbing and can reach heights of 3 to 6 feet or more.
The plant is toxic if eaten; therefore, keep pets safe from it.
Potting mix: an aroid mix that drains well.
Notes: Cutting back on plants makes them bushier. It’s usual for variegated kinds to turn green in dim light.
Great places for these plants include kitchens or bathrooms with a window, as well as living rooms that are just a few feet away from light sources.

Monstera adansonii, or Swiss Cheese Vine

What makes it outstanding: The adorable fenestrated (holey) leaves look tropical even in dark environments. It climbs naturally, but it also trails well.

A brief look at care:

Light: Moderate. In low light, expect fewer and bigger leaves and fewer holes in them.
Water: Let the top inch dry, then water it well.
Humidity: Average to high; 50% or more is best, but not required.
The temperature should be between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (18 and 29 degrees Celsius).
Growth habit: trailing or climbing; indoors, it can grow to be 4 to 8 feet tall.
Safety for pets: Dangerous if eaten.
A chunky aroid combination is what makes up potting mix.
If it grows lanky, cut it back and plant it again. To make the spacing narrower, move it a little closer to the light.
Good places to put them are in the corners of the living room, the home office, or above a console table.

Chlorophytum comosum, or the spider plant

Why it’s outstanding: It’s a classic for a reason. Spider plants can handle many different types of light and yet look healthy in low light. They gracefully bend over and produce young plants on long stems.

A brief look at care:

Light: Medium light is best. Brighter light will produce more puppies.
Water: When the upper inch is dry. Every few months, flush the pot to get rid of mineral accumulation.
Humidity: Average; can handle dry air.
The temperature is between 55 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (13 and 27 degrees Celsius).
How it grows: It arches and has cascading plantlets.
Pet safety: Not harmful to cats or dogs (although chewing on it may cause moderate distress).
Standard potting mix with perlite added is called potting mix.
Brown tips are frequent when the humidity is low or when salts in tap water are present. Trim as needed.
Great places are near any window that lets in filtered light, kitchens, or bathrooms.

Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus)

Why it’s wonderful: Swedish ivy is a fast-growing, glossy plant that feels pleasant to the touch. It doesn’t mind the lesser light. It won’t adhere to walls because it is not a true ivy plant.

A quick look at care:

Light: Low to medium, not direct.
Water: Let the top inch dry out; keep the soil moist without flooding it.
Average humidity is acceptable.
The temperature should be between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (16 and 27 degrees Celsius).
The plant has a trailing growth habit and can grow to be 2 to 4 feet or more in length.
Pet safety: This plant is generally considered safe for pets.
Potting mix: A mix of houseplants that works for many types of plants and has perlite for drainage.
Notes: Pinch the stems to keep the plant small and make it branch out.
Great places to put them are bookcases, window sills, or hanging planters near north or east windows.

Grape Ivy (Cissus rhombifolia)

Why it’s exceptional: The foliage is refined and lustrous, featuring three gracefully falling leaves. It may be changed and is stylish, giving a room with softer light a professional aspect.

A brief look at care:

Low to medium, indirect light.
Water: Keep the soil equally moist, and allow the top inch to dry out between waterings.
Humidity: 40–60% is acceptable.
The temperature is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (16 and 27 degrees Celsius).
It grows by trailing or climbing, and it can reach heights of 3 to 6 feet or more.
Pet safety: Usually, it’s not harmful to cats and dogs.
For potting, use a standard potting mix combined with perlite to allow air circulation.
Important: Don’t let chilly drafts in. Prune to shape and keep full.
Good places: bedrooms or living spaces with soft light.

Mistletoe Cactus (Rhipsalis baccifera)

Why it’s good: This real cactus thrives in shady conditions, making it an excellent choice for apartments with limited light. The thin, noodle-like stems that dangle down from a pot add a velvety feel.

A brief look at care:

Light: not too much, nor too little. Don’t spend too much time in the sun.
Water when the top inch is dry. This plant needs a little more water than desert cactus but less than tropical aroids.
Humidity should be maintained at average to high levels, as the plant can tolerate normal indoor humidity.
The ideal temperature range for this plant is 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (16 to 27 degrees Celsius).
Growth habit: trailing; it can grow to be 2 to 6 feet tall over time.
Pets can be safe with this substance because it is not poisonous to them.
Potting mix: A mix that is airy and epiphytic, made by mixing cactus soil with bark and perlite.
Important: In low light, this plant is very sensitive to too much water. Make sure it drains well.
Ideal places are bathrooms with a window, shaded nooks, or ones that face north.

Cupid Peperomia (Peperomia scandens)

The reason it is outstanding is that its leaves are heart-shaped and hang down softly. Peperomias are small, neat, and good for apartments.

A brief look at care:

Light: Not too much and not too little.
Water: Allow the top 1–2 inches of soil to dry out; they prefer soil that is not consistently moist.
Humidity: Average; likes 40–60%.
The temperature is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (16 and 27 degrees Celsius).
How it grows: it trails and grows 1 to 3 feet.
Safe for pets: not harmful to cats or dogs.
Mix for potting: 2 parts potting mix, 1 part perlite, and 1 part fine bark.
Notes: Thicker leaves hold some moisture; in low light, it’s better to be on the drier side.
Great places to put them are on bedroom, office, and bathroom shelves with natural light.

Trailing Jade Peperomia (Peperomia rotundifolia)

The small, spherical leaves on thin stalks create a lovely, flowing curtain, which is why this plant is so appealing. This is a peperomia, not to be confused with the jade plant, which needs different care.

Care in a nutshell:

Light: indirect and low to medium.
Water: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out; during winter, reduce watering frequency.
Humidity: 40 to 60 percent, which is average to slightly higher.
The temperature is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (16 and 27 degrees Celsius).
The growth pattern consists of a thick mat that trails behind the plant and measures 1 to 3 feet in length.
Safety for pets: Not harmful to them.
The potting mix is very light and drains quickly.
Notes: The stems are weak, so be careful when you handle them. Regular gentle trimming keeps it full.
Floating shelves, wall hangers, and grow lights that dangle under cabinets are all excellent places to put them.

Pilea glauca, or Silver Sparkle Pilea

What makes it outstanding: A trailing plant that looks delicate and has hundreds of tiny blue-gray leaves that shine. It adds a smooth, flowing shape to small areas.

A brief look at care:

Light: not too much, nor too little. It is scarce when there isn’t enough light.
Water: Keep it slightly damp and let the top half inch dry in low light.
Humidity: 45–60% is average to high and helps keep things from getting crisp.
The temperature is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (16 and 27 degrees Celsius).
Growth habit: Fine stems that trail; 1–3 feet long.
Safety for pets: Most people think it’s not poisonous.
Potting mix: It’s airy and has a fine texture. It has perlite and a little bit of coco coir in it.
Tips: Pinch the tips to make them bushy, and stay out of the sun.
Great places: bathrooms with natural light or near the edge of a bright room.

Aeschynanthus radicans, sometimes known as the lipstick plant

What makes it outstanding are: glossy leaves, stalks that bend, and, when the light is greater, big tubular flowers. As a foliar plant, it can live in medium to low light inside.

A brief look at care:

Light: indirect and low to medium. Flowers do better with more light, but leaves do better with less.
Water: Water when the top inch is dry; it likes to stay damp but not soggy.
Humidity: Average to high; 50% or more makes flowers bloom.
The temperature should be between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (16 and 27 degrees Celsius).
Growth pattern: trailing; 1 to 3 feet.
Safety for pets: Usually not harmful.
Epiphytic blend: potting mix mixed with bark and perlite.
Notes: To stimulate branching, cut off old stems. Stay away from cold drafts.
Good places to put them are in the corners of the living room, on bathroom shelves, and near the east and north windows.

Davallia fejeensis, often known as Rabbit’s Foot Fern

Why it’s great: Fuzzy rhizomes creep over the edge of the pot like little rabbit feet, giving the hanger a pleasing texture. It is more forgiving than many other ferns and can tolerate less light if the humidity is sufficient.

A brief look at care:

Light: Low to medium, not direct.
Water: Keep it evenly moist; never allow it to get bone-dry. Good drainage is essential.
Humidity: Likes 50% or more, but can handle average as long as it is watered well and kept out of hot, dry air.
The temperature should be between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (16 and 27 degrees Celsius).
The plant has a mounding growth habit and features creeping rhizomes that look excellent when they hang down.
Safe for pets: not harmful to cats or dogs.
Potting mix consists of a combination of fine bark, perlite, and coco coir or peat, which creates a loose and airy texture.
Important: Don’t water the fuzzy rhizomes directly; instead, water the soil.
Ideal places are bathrooms with windows, kitchens that are shaded, or soft north light.

Ficus pumila, sometimes known as creeping fig

Why it’s exceptional: The leaves are diminutive and charming, while the stems are slender and capable of trailing or climbing. It can grow with less light and looks wonderful in a hanging basket.

A brief look at care:

Light: Low to medium, not direct. Less light means slower growth.
Water: Don’t let it dry out completely for too long.
Humidity: average to high is good.
The temperature should be between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (16 and 27 degrees Celsius).
Growth habit: 3 to 6 feet long, trailing or rising.
Pet safety: If eaten, it can be poisonous (milky sap can hurt skin and mouth).
Potting mix: Regular potting mix with perlite in it.
Notes: It can stick to rough surfaces, but don’t let it root into painted walls or wood. Cut back to control form.
Hanging near a window or on a shelf with space to drape is a wonderful place.