Indoor climbing plants are a stylish and practical way to enhance your home’s decor. These lush, vining plants add greenery, purify the air, and create a natural, inviting atmosphere. Whether trained to climb walls, drape over bookshelves, or trail elegantly from hanging planters, they bring life to any space. Many indoor climbing plants are also low-maintenance, making them ideal for experienced and beginner plant enthusiasts.
If you’re looking for a way to fill an empty wall, soften harsh corners, or introduce more greenery into your space, indoor climbers are the perfect solution. Some require a trellis or moss pole for support, while others naturally cling to surfaces or cascade downward for a dramatic effect. This guide explores ten of the best indoor climbing plants, highlighting their care needs and unique features to help you choose the right one for your home.
10 of The Best Indoor Climbing Plants for Your Home
Contents
Indoor climbing plants add greenery, texture, and a refreshing touch to any home. They thrive in various light conditions and can be trained to climb walls, trellises, or cascade elegantly from shelves and hanging planters.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is one of the most adaptable indoor climbing plants, making it a favorite for both beginners and experienced plant owners. This tropical vine features long, trailing stems adorned with heart-shaped leaves that come in various shades of green, often with striking variegation in yellow, white, or silver. Its hardy nature allows it to thrive in a wide range of indoor conditions, from bright indirect light to lower-light environments.
Pros:
- Extremely low-maintenance and easy to grow.
- Tolerates low light and inconsistent watering.
- Helps improve indoor air quality by filtering toxins.
- Can be trained to climb or left to trail from shelves and hanging baskets.
Cons:
- Toxic to pets if ingested.
- Can become leggy if not pruned regularly.
- Overwatering can cause root rot.
Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
The Heartleaf Philodendron is a fast-growing, trailing vine that adds a lush, elegant touch to any indoor space. Its soft, heart-shaped leaves range from deep green to shades of bronze and can grow long enough to climb walls or drape beautifully from shelves. This plant thrives in moderate to low light and prefers occasional watering, making it an easy-care choice for busy plant owners.
Pros:
- Adaptable to various lighting conditions, including low light.
- Low-maintenance and forgiving of occasional neglect.
- Grows quickly, creating a full, cascading effect.
- Can be trained to climb with the help of a trellis or moss pole.
Cons:
- Toxic to pets if ingested.
- Needs occasional pruning to maintain a bushy shape.
- Can develop leggy growth if placed in very low light.
Monstera Adansonii (Swiss Cheese Plant)
Monstera Adansonii, commonly known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, is a unique indoor climbing plant with eye-catching, fenestrated leaves that develop natural holes as they mature. This tropical vine thrives in warm, humid environments and prefers bright, indirect light to encourage its lush, trailing growth. When provided with a moss pole or trellis, it will climb beautifully, creating a dramatic jungle-like effect indoors.
Pros:
- Distinctive, hole-filled leaves add an exotic touch to any space.
- Fast-growing and adaptable to various indoor environments.
- Can be trained to climb or left to cascade from a hanging planter.
- Improves air quality by filtering toxins.
Cons:
- Toxic to pets if ingested.
- Requires high humidity to thrive.
- Leaves can turn yellow if overwatered.
English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English Ivy is a classic climbing plant known for its ability to create dense, cascading foliage that can climb trellises, walls, or spill over shelves and hanging planters. Its deep green or variegated leaves make it a versatile decorative option for any indoor space. This hardy vine grows quickly and thrives in moderate light, though it can tolerate some shade.
Pros:
- Excellent for vertical gardens, trellises, and wall coverage.
- Hardy and adaptable to various lighting conditions.
- Known for its air-purifying properties.
- Adds an elegant, timeless look to indoor spaces.
Cons:
- Toxic to pets and can cause skin irritation in some people.
- Requires regular pruning to prevent overgrowth.
- Susceptible to pests like spider mites if not properly cared for.
Hoya Carnosa (Wax Plant)
Hoya Carnosa, also known as the Wax Plant, is a stunning indoor climbing plant prized for its thick, waxy leaves and clusters of fragrant, star-shaped flowers. This slow-growing vine thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers to dry out between waterings, making it an excellent low-maintenance choice. With the right support, it will climb and create a lush, trailing display.
Pros:
- Produces beautiful, sweet-scented flowers in optimal conditions.
- Drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.
- Non-toxic to pets, making it a safe option for households with animals.
- Long-lived and easy to propagate.
Cons:
- Slow-growing compared to other climbing plants.
- Requires bright light to encourage flowering.
- Can become leggy if not pruned regularly.
Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma (Mini Monstera)
Often mistaken for a true Monstera, Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma is a fast-growing climbing plant with deeply lobed leaves that resemble a smaller version of Monstera Deliciosa. This tropical vine thrives in bright, indirect light and grows vigorously when provided with a moss pole or trellis for support. It’s an excellent choice for creating a lush, green wall or a cascading indoor jungle.
Pros:
- Grows quickly and easily adapts to indoor conditions.
- Compact size makes it suitable for smaller spaces.
- Can be trained to climb for a dramatic vertical effect.
- Easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance.
Cons:
- Toxic to pets if ingested.
- Needs high humidity for optimal growth.
- Can develop yellowing leaves if overwatered.
String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
String of Pearls is a striking succulent vine known for its bead-like leaves that resemble a cascading string of pearls. This unique indoor climbing plant thrives in bright, indirect light and requires minimal watering due to its drought-tolerant nature. While it is commonly grown in hanging planters for its trailing effect, it can also be trained to climb when given proper support.
Pros:
- Unique, eye-catching appearance with trailing bead-like leaves.
- Drought-tolerant and requires infrequent watering.
- Easy to propagate from stem cuttings.
- Adds an elegant, flowing touch to shelves or hanging planters.
Cons:
- Toxic to pets and can cause skin irritation in humans.
- Requires bright light to thrive and may struggle in low-light conditions.
- Prone to root rot if overwatered.
Pink Jasmine (Jasminum polyanthum)
Pink Jasmine is a fast-growing, fragrant climbing plant that produces clusters of delicate pink and white flowers. It thrives in bright light and cool temperatures, making it a perfect choice for well-lit indoor spaces. With its twining vines, it can easily be trained to climb trellises, walls, or window frames, adding a romantic, floral touch to any home.
Pros:
- Beautiful, fragrant flowers that bloom in late winter and spring.
- Fast-growing and can quickly cover a trellis or support.
- Pet-friendly and non-toxic.
- Tolerates a variety of indoor conditions with proper care.
Cons:
- Requires regular pruning to maintain shape and control rapid growth.
- Needs bright light to bloom, which can be difficult to provide indoors.
- Can become leggy if not pruned properly.
Satin Pothos (Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’)
Satin Pothos is a stunning climbing plant with large, velvety green leaves speckled with silver markings. It thrives in medium to bright indirect light and can be trained to climb a trellis or trail down from a hanging planter. This plant is easy to care for and adds a luxurious, textured look to any indoor space.
Pros:
- Attractive silver-speckled foliage that stands out.
- Low-maintenance and adaptable to various lighting conditions.
- Can be trained to climb or left to cascade beautifully.
- Improves indoor air quality by filtering toxins.
Cons:
- Toxic to pets if ingested.
- Can become leggy if not pruned regularly.
- Growth may slow in low-light conditions.
Spiderwort (Tradescantia zebrina)
Spiderwort, also known as Wandering Jew, is a vibrant indoor climbing plant known for its striped purple, green, and silver foliage. It is a fast-growing vine that thrives in bright, indirect light and moderate humidity. Whether trailing from a hanging planter or climbing a trellis, its colorful leaves add a bold touch to any indoor garden.
Pros:
- Striking, colorful foliage that adds visual interest.
- Grows quickly and is easy to propagate.
- Tolerates a variety of indoor conditions.
- Low-maintenance and forgiving of occasional neglect.
Cons:
- Toxic to pets if ingested.
- Requires frequent pruning to maintain fullness.
- Leaves can fade in low light or excessive direct sunlight.
Choosing the Right Indoor Climbing Plant for Your Space and Lighting Conditions
Selecting the right indoor climbing plant depends on your home environment. Some plants thrive in bright, sunlit spaces, while others do well in low-light corners. Understanding your home’s light conditions will help you choose a plant that grows well without constant adjustments. Whether you want a low-maintenance plant for a shady corner or a vibrant climber for a well-lit window, there’s an option for every space.
Low-Light Indoor Climbing Plants
If your home doesn’t get a lot of natural sunlight, don’t worry—many indoor climbing plants adapt well to low-light environments. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is one of the best choices, as it can thrive in dim areas and still produce healthy, trailing vines. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) is another great option that requires minimal light and care. These plants may grow slower in low-light conditions, but they remain resilient and maintain their lush appearance.
Bright, Indirect Light Indoor Climbers
Several climbing plants will thrive and grow quickly for rooms with bright, filtered sunlight. Satin Pothos (Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’) has beautiful, silvery-green leaves that develop vibrant patterns under indirect light. Monstera Adansonii (Swiss Cheese Plant) prefers bright conditions and will reward you with large, hole-filled leaves when given the right amount of light. These plants do best in spaces near windows but should be shielded from direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Sun-Loving Climbing Plants
If you have a sunny window or a space with plenty of direct sunlight, some climbing plants will flourish with the extra brightness. String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) is a drought-tolerant succulent that thrives in direct sunlight and minimal watering. Pink Jasmine (Jasminum polyanthum) loves bright light and rewards you with fragrant blooms when placed in a well-lit spot. These plants need plenty of sunshine to maintain their growth, so placing them near south-facing windows or under grow lights will keep them healthy.
Matching Plants to Your Space
Think about where you want to place your indoor climbing plant. If you’re decorating a bookshelf or hanging planter, opt for trailing plants like pothos or philodendron that cascade beautifully. For those looking to cover a wall or trellis, climbing plants like English Ivy (Hedera helix) or Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma (Mini Monstera) work best, as they attach themselves to vertical supports.
Final Tips for Choosing the Right Climber
- Assess your light conditions before selecting a plant.
- Consider the space available—some plants grow long vines, while others stay compact.
- Check humidity levels—tropical plants like Monstera and Philodendron thrive in humid environments, while succulents like String of Pearls prefer drier air.
- Choose pet-friendly plants if you have animals, as some indoor climbing plants are toxic when ingested.
Picking the right indoor climbing plant for your space ensures healthy growth and a beautiful, natural display in your home. By understanding your light conditions and selecting plants that match them, you’ll create a thriving indoor jungle with minimal effort.
Care and Maintenance
Indoor climbing plants bring beauty and greenery to your space, but they require proper care to thrive. While some are low-maintenance, all climbing plants need the right balance of water, light, and pruning to stay healthy. Learning how to care for them ensures they grow lush and vibrant, whether climbing walls, trellises, or cascading from shelves.
Watering Indoor Climbing Plants
Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes plant owners make. Most indoor climbing plants prefer their soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Pothos, philodendrons, and satin pothos can tolerate occasional dry soil, while plants like pink jasmine and monstera need more consistent moisture. A good rule of thumb is to check the top two inches of soil—if it feels dry, it’s time to water.
To avoid root rot, ensure your pots have drainage holes so excess water can escape. If leaves start turning yellow or dropping, you may be overwatering. Conversely, wilting or crispy leaves can signal underwatering. Adjust your watering schedule based on your plant’s needs and the season, as plants typically need less water in winter.
Pruning and Training Your Climbing Plants
Regular pruning helps climbing plants grow fuller and healthier. Trimming overgrown vines encourages new, bushier growth if a plant becomes leggy. Use clean scissors or pruning shears to remove dead or excess leaves. For plants like English ivy and monstera, cutting near a node (the point where leaves emerge) encourages branching.
Training your climbing plants is key to getting the desired shape and direction. Use trellises, moss poles, or adhesive hooks to guide their growth. Some plants, like monstera and philodendrons, develop aerial roots that naturally cling to surfaces, while others, like hoya and jasmine, may need gentle tying with plant-friendly twine.
Fertilizing for Healthy Growth
Indoor climbing plants benefit from regular feeding, especially during the growing season (spring and summer). A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer every 4-6 weeks provides essential nutrients for vibrant foliage and vigorous vines. Pothos and philodendrons are not heavy feeders, while flowering plants like jasmine may need extra phosphorus to encourage blooms. In fall and winter, reduce feeding since plant growth slows down.
Managing Humidity and Light
Many climbing plants originate from tropical climates and thrive in moderate to high humidity. If your home has dry air, especially in winter, increase humidity with a humidifier, pebble trays, or regular misting. Plants like monstera and satin pothos love extra moisture, while string of pearls and hoya prefer drier conditions.
Lighting also plays a significant role in plant health. Low-light plants like pothos and philodendrons can adapt to dim rooms, while sun-loving plants like a string of pearls and pink jasmine need bright, indirect light. If your plant isn’t growing well, adjusting its light exposure may help.
Preventing Pests and Diseases
Indoor climbing plants can attract common pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. To prevent infestations, regularly inspect leaves for signs of damage or sticky residue. If pests appear, wipe leaves with neem oil or insecticidal soap to keep them under control. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to fungal infections and root rot.
Proper care allows indoor climbing plants to flourish, transforming your space into a lush, green sanctuary. By following these maintenance tips, you’ll enjoy healthy, thriving vines for years.
Conclusion
Growing indoor climbing plants is a fulfilling approach to accentuate your décor and improve air quality by including natural beauty in your house. With the correct care, which includes proper hydration, lighting, and sporadic pruning, these plants will flourish and produce a rich, green environment. The correct climbing plant will turn any area into a vivid indoor sanctuary, whether your preferred pothos requires minimum maintenance or a fragrant pink jasmine.
If flowers is more your style, we have plenty of guide to growing them. Check out our hibiscus flower growing guide next!
