Top 22 Hanging & Trailing Succulents - Everything You Need to Know!

Hanging succulents plants with trailing, vining, or cascading stems are popular among plant enthusiasts and ideal for hanging baskets or pots. Hanging succulents are low maintenance and hard to kill since they don’t need frequent watering. They can trail over pot sides, mound over container edges, or spill several feet down from a basket or hanging succulent planter.

Do Succulents Make Good Hanging Plants?

Succulents make fantastic hanging plants for so many reasons.   

Succulents are incredibly low maintenance and much easier to care for than non-succulent hanging plants.  Most non-succulent hanging plants would struggle and possibly die if you forgot to water them for a couple of weeks, but your hanging succulents would still be going strong. 

Hanging succulents are quite resistant to pests. Their thick leaves and waxy coatings prevent unwanted visitors from latching on, allowing you to enjoy hanging succulents without worrying about damage.

Succulents are hard to kill and can go weeks or even months without water. The reason they can survive for so long is because they have the ability to store water in their stems and leaves. It's like they have their own little water reservoirs! So even if you forget to water them, they'll still thrive.

Hanging succulents, with their trailing stems and vibrant foliage, add natural beauty and visual interest to any living space, transforming it into a green oasis and creating movement and flow.

Our Favorite Types of Hanging Succulents

Choosing the proper hanging succulent plants for your space can be a big challenge since there are a lot of choices. Aside from using single plants in a pot, you can also make amazing succulent arrangements using various types of hanging plants in a planter to cascade over the side while having another main focal plant. 

Below, you will find the 22 most popular types of hanging succulent plants to cascade from a basket or planter. Further down the page, you will learn how to care for them and much more to keep them thriving.

1

String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9, 10, 11, 12
• Blooming Period: Spring
• Mature Size: 2 ft. long
• Flower Color: White

The string of pearls plant is the most popular trailing succulent plant. It has thin stems growing as long as two feet, with the leaves made to store water. The other considerable point about this trailing plant is that it adapts easily to any ecosystem and looks extremely beautiful. This long, skinny succulent has white fuzzy flowers with a cinnamon-vanilla fragrance.  Learn more....

You might also like the variagated string of pearls variety, which is similar but has a more unique color pattern with alternating shades of green and white.  

2

Donkey Tail Plant (Sedum morganianum)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10,11
• Blooming Period: Winter
• Mature Size: 4 ft. long
• Flower Color: Pink, deep, red, purple

The Donkey's Tail Plant is a popular hanging succulent with long, trailing stems that are covered in plump, fleshy, and cylindrical leaves, resembling the tail of a donkey. The beautiful blue-green leaves have a slightly powdery texture, which adds to their charm. With its cascading growth habit, the Donkey Tail plant is a stunning addition to any hanging basket or pot, bringing a touch of whimsy and natural beauty to your space. Learn more...

3

Burro's Tail (Sedum Burrito)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10,11
• Blooming Period: Mid Spring - Fall
• Mature Size: 3 ft. long
• Flower Color: Pink, deep red, purple

The Burro Tail is also a super cool tropical succulent that's often confused with the Donkey Tail Succulent. It's got these trailing short stems covered in these cute small rounder plump leaves compared to the donkey tail plants. With lovely pale green leaves and a velvety texture, they are enjoyable to touch. Burro tail plants are native to Mexico and are great for people who want low-maintenance plants. Learn more...

4

String of Watermelon (Senecio herreanus)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9, 10, 11, 12
• Blooming Period: Spring - Summer
• Mature Size: 2 ft. long
• Flower Color: White

The String of Watermelon gets its name from its unique leaves that resemble tiny watermelon slices. The leaves are round and fleshy, with a vibrant green color and little translucent stripes that mimic the pattern of a watermelon rind. It's a real eye-catcher! This succulent has trailing stems that dangle gracefully, making it perfect for hanging planters or baskets. Learn more...

5

Ruby Necklace Plant (Othonna capensis)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9, 10, 11
• Blooming Period: Spring, Summer, Fall
• Mature Size: 12 in. long
• Flower Color: Bright Yellow

The String of Rubies or ruby necklace, is also a stunning succulent with trailing stems adorned with small, ruby-red leaves. Just like its name suggests, it looks like a string of precious rubies cascading down from a hanging planter. The vibrant red color of the leaves adds a pop of color and visual interest to any space. With its captivating appearance and low-maintenance nature, the String of Rubies is a fantastic choice for adding a touch of elegance and beauty to your hanging succulent planter. Learn more...

6

Variegated String of Hearts (Ceropegia Woodii Variegata)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 11, 12
• Blooming Period: Late winter, early spring
• Mature Size: 12 ft. long
• Flower Color: Pink, purple

The Variegated String of Hearts is a lovely variation of the String of Hearts plant. It features delicate, heart-shaped leaves that are variegated with shades of green and creamy white. The variegation adds a touch of uniqueness and visual interest to the plant. The trailing stems of the Variegated String of Hearts make it perfect for hanging planters, where it can cascade down and create a stunning display. Learn more...

7

String of Buttons (Crassula Perforata)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9, 10, 11, 12
• Blooming Period: Spring
• Mature Size: 2 ft. long
• Flower Color: White, yellow

The String of Buttons plant gets its name from its button-like leaves. These leaves are stacked on top of each other, giving the plant a distinctive appearance. The String of Buttons has trailing stems that make it perfect for hanging planters, allowing it to cascade down and create a beautiful display. This plant is relatively easy to care for, as it enjoys bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Learn more...

8

String of Dolphins (Senecio peregrinus)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10, 11
• Blooming Period: Spring, Summer
• Mature Size: 6 in. long
• Flower Color: White

The String of Dolphins is a unique succulent that resembles a pod of leaping dolphins. Its leaves are shaped like little dolphins, with a curved and pointed appearance. The String of Dolphins has trailing stems and white and pink flowers that make it perfect for hanging planters, allowing it to cascade down and create a whimsical display. Learn more...

9

String of Fishhook Plant (Senecio Radicans Glauca)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10, 11, 12
• Blooming Period: Winter
• Mature Size: 32 ft. long
• Flower Color: Cream white, pale yellow

The String of Fishhook Plant features trailing stems with small, fishhook-shaped leaves. These leaves resemble tiny fishhooks, giving the plant its distinctive appearance. The String of Fishhook Plant is perfect for hanging planters, as its trailing stems can cascade down and create a beautiful display. This plant is relatively easy to care for, as it prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Learn more...

10

Rainbow Bush (Portulacaria afra variegata)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10, 11
• Blooming Period: Late spring, Early summer
• Mature Size: 4 ft. long (indoors), 12 ft. long (Outdoors)
• Flower Color: Lavender pink

The Rainbow bush is also a stunning hanging succulent that has gained popularity for its trailing growth habit. This succulent features fleshy, variegated leaves that are a mix of green and cream or yellow colors, creating a beautiful rainbow-like effect. The Rainbow Bush is known for its ability to drape gracefully over the edges of containers or hang from baskets, making it a fantastic choice for adding a touch of elegance and charm to any space. Learn more...

11

Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10, 11, 12
• Blooming Period: Winter
• Mature Size: 12 in. long, 24 in. wide
• Flower Color: Pink, red, salmon, soft purple, lavender

The Christmas cactus is a popular choice for the holiday season, as it blooms with beautiful flowers around Christmas time. It features flat, segmented leaves that are typically green but can also come in shades of red or purple. The Christmas Cactus is a hanging succulent, making it perfect for hanging planters or baskets. Its cascading stems create a lovely display, especially when it's in bloom. Learn more...

12

Monkey Tail Cactus (Cleistocactus colademononis)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9, 10, 11
• Blooming Period: Spring, Summer
• Mature Size: 8 ft. long
• Flower Color: Bright red, pink

The monkey tail cactus is named after its long, trailing stems that resemble the tail of a monkey.  The Monkey Tail Plant is native to the Andes Mountains in South America and is known for its striking appearance. Its stems are covered in soft, golden spines that give it a fuzzy texture. This plant produces beautiful bright red, or orange flowers that add a pop of color to any space. Learn more...

13

Trailing Jade (Senecio Jacobsenii)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10, 11
• Blooming Period: Early summer, late fall
• Mature Size: 4 ft. long
• Flower Color: Bright orange

The Trailing Jade or weeping jade plant features long, trailing thick fleshy stems adorned with vibrant, elongated leaves. The leaves are a gorgeous shade of green, tinged with hints of pink or purple on the edges. This succulent is native to South Africa and is perfect for hanging planters or baskets, as its cascading stems create a beautiful display. Learn more...

14

String of Tears (Senecio citriformis)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10, 11
• Blooming Period: Late summer, winter
• Mature Size: 3 ft. long
• Flower Color: Creamy yellow

The String of Tears is also a beautiful hanging succulent plant, with long, trailing stems that are covered in small, bead-like leaves. The leaves are a lovely shade of green and have a unique tear-drop shape, which gives the plant its name. String of Tears is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers well-draining soil. It's a great choice for hanging baskets or trailing down shelves. Learn more...

15

Fishbone Cactus (Selenicereus anthonyanus)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10, 11
• Blooming Period: Late Spring - Early Summer
• Mature Size: 3.3 ft. long
• Flower Color: Dark violet 

The fishbone cactus gets its name from the unique shape of its trailing foliage. Its leaves are long and thin, resembling the bones of a fish. These leaves have deep, wavy edges and are a gorgeous shade of green, with contrasting white markings that resemble fish bones. It can grow up to several feet long, making it perfect for hanging baskets or trailing down from elevated planters. Its cascading foliage creates a stunning visual effect and adds a touch of natural beauty to any space. Learn more....

16

Hindu Rope Plant (Hoya carnosa compacta)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10, 11, 12
• Blooming Period: Late Spring–Early Summer
• Mature Size: 15 in. long
• Flower Color: White, light pink

The Hindu Rope Plant, gets its name from its unique, twisted, and contorted vines that resemble a rope or a chain. These vining succulents has thick, waxy leaves that are tightly clustered together, giving it a dense and compact appearance. The leaves are typically a deep green color, but can also have variegated patterns of cream or pink. The Hindu Rope Plant produces beautiful clusters of star-shaped flowers that have a sweet, honey-like fragrance. Use a good orchid mix or well-drained soil to plant your hoya in a hanging basket. Learn more...

17

Thanksgiving Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10, 11, 12
• Blooming Period: Late fall, early winter
• Mature Size: 24 in. long
• Flower Color: Pink

The Thanksgiving Cactus is a unique hanging plant succulent. Although it's called a cactus, it's actually a succulent because it stores water in its leaves. This cactus has flattened, segmented stems that cascade down in a hanging fashion. The stems are made up of thick, fleshy leaves that come in vibrant colors like pink, red, orange, and white. During the Thanksgiving season, this cactus blooms with stunning, tubular flowers that add a festive touch to any space. Learn more... 

18

Blue Chalk Sticks (Senecio mandraliscae)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9, 10, 11
• Blooming Period: Mid summer, early autumn
• Mature Size: 18 in. tall
• Flower Color: Dull white

The Blue Chalk Sticks are our most popular ground cover plant, and they also look great in hanging baskets and planters. The vibrant blue-gray color of the Blue Chalk Sticks really makes them stand out in any garden or landscape. When placed next to other plants, their unique hue creates a striking contrast that enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the space. Its cylindrical, finger-like leaves give it a distinct appearance that resembles sticks of chalk. The trailing stems of the blue chalk sticks will cascade down, creating a stunning waterfall effect. Learn more...

19

Dancing Bones Cactus (Hatiora salicornioides)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10, 11
• Blooming Period: Late winter, early spring
• Mature Size: 2 ft. long
• Flower Color: Bright White, yellow, orange

The Dancing Bone Cactus gets its name from the way its long, slender stems resemble dancing bones. These stems are made up of segmented, cylindrical sections that cascade down in a graceful manner. The Dancing Bone Cactus has small, green leaves that grow along the stems. While it may not have the typical thick, fleshy leaves of other succulents, it still falls under the category of succulent plants because it has the ability to store water in its stems. This unique adaptation allows it to survive in dry conditions. Learn more...

20

Silver Dollar Vine (Xerosicyos danguyi)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones:10, 11
• Blooming Period: Spring, Summer
• Mature Size: 1.6 in. long
• Flower Color: Pale yellow, greenish White

The Silver Dollar Vine is a unique climbing succulent that can grow vertically. The Silver Dollar Vine has round, coin-shaped leaves that are a vibrant green color. These succulent leaves are thick and fleshy, helping the plant retain water. As it grows, it develops long, trailing vines that can climb up trellises or look perfect as trailing hangings basket plants. Learn more...

21

Rat Tail Cactus (Aporocactus flagelliformis)

BUY AT PLANET DESERT

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9, 10, 11
• Blooming Period: Spring, early Summer
• Mature Size: 4 ft. long
• Flower Color: Violet red, pink, orange

The rat tail cactus gets its name from its long, trailing stems, which resemble a rat's tail. The stems are covered in small, cylindrical green segments that give it a unique and playful appearance. Whether you hang it in a sunny spot or a well-lit corner, this disocactus will bring a touch of whimsy and charm to your space. Learn more...

22

String of Bananas (Senecio radicans)

keypoints:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10, 11
• Blooming Period: Spring
• Mature Size: Up to 3 ft. long
• Flower Color: White, light pink

The String of Bananas is a delightful hanging succulent that can bring a touch of whimsy and natural beauty to any space. With its cascading vines of banana-shaped leaves, this plant adds a unique and eye-catching element to your home or office. Not only is it visually appealing, but it is also relatively low-maintenance, making it perfect for busy plant lovers or those new to gardening. Whether you hang it in a macrame planter or let it trail down from a shelf, the String of Bananas is sure to bring a touch of natural charm to your space.

We hope the above list will helps you find the perfect hanging plants for your home or garden. It's always exciting to add some greenery to your space, and hanging plants can really bring a fresh and vibrant touch to any room. 

General Care Guide For Hanging Succulent Plants

When it comes to care for your hanging or trailing plants, they are perfect for those who want a low-maintenance option. These beauties require minimal care, making them a great choice for busy individuals. 

Ideal Light Requirements Indoor and Outdoor

Indoor hanging succulents thrive in bright, indirect sunlight, so find a spot near a window with a few hours of sunlight daily. East or west-facing windows are ideal, but avoid direct sunlight to avoid sunburn or scorching of leaves. If natural light is lacking, artificial grow lights can be used to supplement their light needs.

Outdoor hanging succulents prefer full sun or partial shade, depending on the plant species. Ensure 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily, preferably in the morning or late afternoon. Provide shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf burn in hot climates.

Seasonal Watering Needs and Techniques

When it comes to watering technique, it's best to water the soil directly rather than spraying the leaves. This helps prevent rot and fungal diseases. Pour water slowly and evenly around the base of the plant until it starts to drain out of the pot's drainage holes.

Best Soil and Balanced Fertilizer Considerations

For the soil, succulents thrive in a well-draining mix that allows excess water to flow out easily. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally use our specialized succulent potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your succulent/cactus to thrive.

Succulents don't need frequent fertilization as they thrive in nutrient-poor environments. A good rule of thumb is to fertilize them sparingly, once a year, in spring during their active growing season. Use a balanced (5-10-5), water-soluble NPK fertilizer or diluted liquid fertilizer. It's better to under-fertilize than over-fertilize hanging succulents to avoid leggy growth and other issues.

Optimal Indoor Temperature and Outdoor Hardiness Zone

Indoor hanging succulents are more adaptable to a wider range of temperatures due to their protection from extreme weather conditions. They prefer 60-80°F during the day and slightly cooler at night, but should avoid extreme cold or frost.

Outdoor trailing plants' hardiness zone and temperature tolerance depend on the plant species. Most are native to arid regions, adapted to warmer climates, but some cold-hardy ones can withstand lower temperatures.

You can check your hardiness zone by referring to the USDA Hardiness Zone Map and then look at our hanging succulent list above to find the ones that work in your hardiness zone. Of course, if growing your succulent indoors then you don't need to worry about the hardiness zone in your area.

Succulents thrive in arid environments with lower humidity levels, but in humid areas, proper air circulation is crucial to prevent soil moisture buildup and fungal diseases.

Tips on Hanging Succulent Plants Propagation

Propagation for hanging or trailing succulent plants can be a fun and rewarding process. One common method of propagation is through stem cuttings.

Here's how you can propagate your hanging succulent:

Remember, each succulent species may have slightly different propagation requirements, so it's always a good idea to research the specific needs of your hanging succulent before starting the propagation process. 

Creative Display Ideas for Hanging Succulent Wall Planters

You can explore innovative ways to display and showcase succulents that not only provide functionality but also contribute to eco-friendly practices, offering endless possibilities for showcasing your succulents. The most popular are: 

Macrame Hangers: Hang your succulents in trendy macrame plant hangers. They come in various styles and designs, adding a boho touch to your space. You can find them online or at local craft stores.

Wall Planter or Pallet: Create a vertical garden using a hanging succulent planter or repurposed pallet. Arrange your succulents in rows or patterns to create a living work of art. It's a great way to maximize space and add a unique touch to your succulent hanging wall.

Reused Materials: Get crafty by using recycled materials to display your succulents. For example, repurpose old wooden crates, tin cans, or even vintage drawers as planters. The possibilities are endless, and it adds a rustic and eco-friendly vibe to your decor.

Window Frame with Terra Cotta Pot: Transform an old window frame into a charming display for your succulents. Attach terra cotta pots to the frame using wire or hooks. Hang it near a sunny window to create a lovely focal point.

Hanging Basket: Choose decorative hanging basket for succulents with intricate designs or interesting shapes to showcase your succulents. Mix different succulent varieties for a vibrant and cascading display. Hang them in your garden or porch for a touch of natural beauty.

Unique Containers: Think outside the box when it comes to choosing containers for your hanging succulents. Use vintage teacups, mason jars, or even old birdcages. Just make sure to provide proper drainage for the plants to thrive.

Hanging Succulent Wall: Create a hanging succulent wall by using a sturdy wooden board or metal grid as the base. Attach small pots or containers with drainage holes, fill them with well-draining soil, and plant your favorite succulents. Hang the board or grid securely on a hanging succulents wall, and ensure the right amount of light and water is provided. This creative and eye-catching display is a visually appealing way to showcase your succulent hanging plants.

Hanging Box Shelves: Succulent hanging box shelves look superb. There are metallic rectangular planters for succulent creepers giving a rustic feel. There are wooden planters too for hanging succulents indoors or outdoors.

Hanging Wall Planters: These are fabulous for long trailing succulents. These can be used vertically on the wall, and you can use your imagination to use different types of succulents to create an interesting space on your walls. Use basic cotton ropes to hang the planters with indoor wall succulents.

Mounted wall planters: Use for long-hanging succulent plants. These planters are directly mounted on the wall but can be arranged differently. These are good for mini hanging succulents too. The best material is clay or ceramic.

Final Thoughts

Overall, hanging succulents are not only beautiful but also a great addition to any space. With their unique trailing vines and vibrant colors, they add a touch of nature and elegance to your home or office. These low-maintenance outdoor and indoor plants are perfect for busy individuals who want to enjoy the beauty of nature without the hassle of constant care. Whether you hang them in a macramé hanger, a hanging basket with succulents, or a stylish hanging pot itself, hanging succulents are sure to bring a fresh and trendy look to any room. So go ahead and bring some green goodness into your life with a hanging succulent plant.