20 Cacti and Succulents that Hang or Trail (With Pictures)
Cacti and succulents that hang or trail are popular because they can be incorporated both indoor and outdoor. Succulents, in general, are easy to take care of and even people with busy schedules can still keep them alive for many years. Hanging succulents bring interest in every location they are added.
Support Flowers and flowerthings by using the affiliate links in my posts for shopping. I receive a small commission (no extra cost to you) which allows me to continue creating helpful free content. Thanks, I appreciate it!
The trailing succulents can be planted in hanging baskets, garden pots, raised planters, wall art as well as wreaths and other arrangements.
Cacti and succulents that hang or trail include Othonna capensis ‘Ruby Necklace’, Echinopsis Chamaecereus ‘Peanut Cactus’, Hildewintera Colademononis ‘Monkey’s Tail’, Hoya Plant ‘Wax Plant’, Aporocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat Tail Cactus’, Sedum burrito ‘Baby Donkey Tail’, Sedum Morganianum ‘Donkey’s Tail’, Dischidia nummularia ‘Strings of Nickels’, Crassula Pellucida Variegata ‘Calico Kitten’, Ceropegia linearis woodii ‘String of Hearts’ Euphorbia caput-medusae ‘Medusa Head’, Senecio Fish Hooks “Grey Fishhooks Senecio’, Senecio rowleyanus ‘String of Pearls’, Senecio herreianus ‘String of Beads’, Senecio radicans ‘String of Bananas’, Sedum Little Missy ‘Sedum Petite Bicolor’, Epiphyllum anguliger ‘Fishbone Cactus’.
Epiphyllum anguliger ‘Fishbone Cactus’
Epiphyllum anguliger ‘Fishbone Cactus’ is also known as the ‘Zigzag Cactus’, or the Ricrac Orchid cactus. It’s native to Mexico and it’s grown as an ornamental. It is also an epiphytic cactus that produces smooth green stems. In young plants, the stems grow upwards and begin to trail as the plant matures and the stems become long.
The plant also produces nocturnal flowers which are fragrant and produce a strong sweet scent. The fruit from the succulent is oval in shape and can be greenish, brown- yellowish in color.
Epiphyllum anguliger ‘Fishbone Cactus’ Care
‘Fishbone Cactus’ thrive with moderate to high humidity, especially during the growing season. Best results are achieved indoors, in a greenhouse or conservatory. The containers should be under bright but filtered light.
The succulent also requires extremely well-draining soil because it is epiphytic. Overwatering should be avoided because it can easily result in root rot.
Any overlong stems should be pruned all the way at the base or just cut off and new shoots appear behind the cut.
Senecio radicans ‘String of Bananas’
Senecio radicans ‘String of Bananas’ is native to South Africa. The succulent can be grown in tall planters or hanging planters which give their beautiful stems room for trailing and hanging.
‘String of Bananas’ produces long stems that can reach up to 90 cm in length. The stems have green leaves shaped like mini-bananas hence the name. ‘String of Bananas’ produce cinnamon scented blooms that can either be yellow, white, or lavender in color.
The succulent is poisonous for cats read more about toxic succulents.
Senecio radicans ‘String of Bananas’ Care
Senecio radicans ‘String of Bananas’ is propagated using cuttings. The cut stem pieces are planted directly into the soil and they easily begin to grow.
To get best results, water the succulent when the soil is dry and give it a deep soak followed by a period of no watering until the soil is dry again. The soil should also be well-draining.
The ‘String of Bananas’ should be protected from extreme frost as well as the scorching afternoon sun.
Buy the ‘String of Bananas’
Senecio rowleyanus ‘String of Pearls’
Senecio rowleyanus ‘String of Pearls’ is also commonly referred to as ‘String of Peas’. The hanging succulent is native to South Africa. The ‘String of Pearls’ produces stems that are lined with green leaves that are shaped like peas. The leaves can be as long as 90cm which trail or hanging all directions from the plants growing point.
‘String of Pearls’ is a beauty and adds great interest. Although the succulent is versatile, it isn’t very frost tolerant.
Propagation of the plant is easily done using cuttings. When the stems are cut, they can be split into pieces and planted where they sprout roots and keep growing.
Senecio rowleyanus ‘String of Pearls’ Care
‘Strings of Pearls’ require well-draining soil because they don’t like sitting in waterlogged soil.
The succulent has similar watering needs compared to other succulent plants. To get the best results to water the ‘Strings of Pearls’ when the soil is dry. Allow the soil to dry and give the plant a deep watering and wait then repeat the cycle again. The younger strings of pearls require more frequent watering compared to the mature plants.
‘String of Peas’ thrive when established in locations where they receive bright but indirect sunlight. The succulents don’t need the intense afternoon sun. If you’re growing them outside in the ground or in containers make sure that they have adequate shade.
When mature the ‘Strings of Pearl’ produce sweet, vanilla-scented, white flowers.
Buy the ‘String of Pearls’
Senecio herreianus ‘String of Beads’
Senecio herreianus ‘String of Beads’ is also another one of the cacti and succulents that hang or trails. The succulent is also thought to be native to South Africa.
‘String of Beads’ looks very similar to ‘String of Pearls’ but are less common. The only major difference between the two succulents is the shape of the leaves. The ‘String of Beads’ has a more prominent oval shape and are also pointier while the leaves of the ‘Strings of Pearls’ are rounder.
The succulent’s stems grow up to 90cm long just like they do in the ‘Strings of Pearls’.
Senecio herreianus ‘String of Beads’ Care
‘String of Beads’ care includes propagation which is done using stem cuttings. Propagation is easy and the cut stems are planted in soil where they root easily.
The plant doesn’t do well in extreme frost and should be protected. The watering needs of the ‘String of Beads’ are similar to those of many succulent plants.
When planted directly in the soil, the ‘String of Beads’ provides ground cover. They also do well when planted in hanging baskets and pots as a hanging succulent.
Senecio Fish Hooks “Grey Fishhooks Senecio’
Fish Hook Senecio “Grey Fishhooks Senecio’ is also known as the ‘Fishhooks Plant’ It’s native to South Africa. They get their name from the shape of their leaves which look like fish hooks. The bluish green leaves grow on long stems that can reach up to 4 inches long.
Senecio Fish Hooks ‘Grey Fishhooks Senecio’ Care
‘Grey Fishhooks Senecio’ is a trailing succulent and is easy to grow and care for and does well both indoor and outdoor.
Position the succulent in a location that they get bright light but away from the direct hot Summer sun because they get burnt.
When watering the succulent, let it almost thoroughly dry out in between watering. Thoroughly water the succulent and let the water drain out. Use well-draining soil to avoid rotting in the roots.
Propagation is easy using the stems or leaf cuttings which can be easily established in the soil where they root fast. The trailing succulents can be used in hanging baskets or in wall pots. They can also be used in mixed container plantings just be careful because their fast growth means that they can wander easily.
Euphorbia caput-medusae ‘Medusa Head’
Euphorbia caput-medusae ‘Medusa Head’ is native to South Africa. The succulent has many snake-like stems which resemble the head of Medusa hence the name. The stems arise from a short cylindrical central caudex. The deep-green stems can grow up to 30 cm in length and have small leaves.
In young ‘Medusa’s Head’ succulents, the arms grow upwards and only begin to trail as the plant matures. The mature succulent produces yellowish-green blooms that form clusters at the center of the plant.
When working with cacti and succulents that hang or trail you can plant them in funny planters or containers and express your creativity.
Euphorbia caput-medusae ‘Medusa Head’ Care
The ‘Medusa head’ is not drought tolerant and may require weekly watering during hot Summer months. Deep watering when the soil is a few inches dry is recommended. When the succulent curls its arms towards the center it’s usually an indication that it is water deprived.
‘Medusa’s Head’ thrives under direct sunlight but doesn’t tolerate frost well.
Propagation can be done easily through pups that form at the ends of the mature arms. The pups root easily when provided with soil and water.
Ceropegia linearis woodii ‘String of Hearts’
Ceropegia linearis woodii ‘String of Hearts’ is also referred to as the ‘Rosary Vine’. This trailing plant is also native to South Africa and is one of the succulents that hang for over 183cm.
‘Strings of Hearts’ produce stems with a pale green to dark green colored leaves. The layered leaves make the plant a sight to behold.
Ceropegia linearis woodii ‘String of Hearts’ Care
Establish the ‘String of Hearts’ in a location with bright light but away from direct sunlight.
The watering needs are higher during the warmer Summer months also the growing months and decline during Winter. When watering, allow the top inch or so of the soil to dry in between watering cycles. Misting is not advisable and any watering should be done deeply.
It’s also recommended to use well-draining soil to avoid root rot.
‘Strings of Hearts’ look great in hanging baskets that hang a few feet high to provide them with enough room for the vines to hang.
Crassula Pellucida Variegata ‘Calico Kitten’
Crassula Pellucida Variegata ‘Calico Kitten’ produce heart-shaped variegated leaves. The leaves have different colors that include pink, cream, green, and purple. Many plant lovers are attracted to the beauty in this succulent’s leaves.
When exposed to full sunlight the leaves turn to a dark purple color. The ‘Calico Kitten’ also produces white blooms.
Crassula Pellucida Variegata ‘Calico Kitten’ Care
The care of the ‘Calico Kitten’ is minimal and they don’t need to be babied. Plant the succulents in well-draining soil to get the best results. Water the soil when it’s dry and give a deep soak.
They do well when established in hanging baskets or directly planted in soil where they provide ground cover.
Mature plants produce white blooms.
Buy the ‘Calico Kitten’
Dischidia nummularia ‘Strings of Nickels’
Dischidia nummularia ‘Strings of Nickels’ are originally from the tropical rainforests. When growing in nature, the plant is an epiphyte meaning it grows on other plants, rocks, and tree trunks.
The hanging plant produces long trailing stems with round and flat leaves which resemble coins hence the name. The leaves are green in color with a blue-grayish tone.
When mature the trailing succulent produces creamy white blooms.
Dischidia nummularia ‘Strings of Nickels’ Care
The important aspect when caring for ‘Strings of Nickels’ is providing the right type of soil mix. Because the plant is epiphytic, it does not do well in just any type of soil.
They require extremely well-draining soil. Epiphytic soil mix contains coconut husks and shredded bark to facilitate proper growth. Adding gravel, pebbles, and pumice to the typical cactus soil mix helps improve drainage.
Position the ‘Strings of Nickels’ in a location with a high level of humidity compared to other succulents. The plant also does well when it gets bright light but not in direct sunlight.
Establish them in hanging baskets and allow the trails/vines to cascade displaying the plant’s beauty. It can also be incorporated in raised planters or in living wreaths.
Sedum morganianum ‘Donkey’s Tail’
Sedum Morganianum ‘Donkey’s Tail’ is also known as the ‘Burro’s Tail’ as well as the ‘Lamb’s Tail’.
Sedum burrito ‘Burro’s Tail’ is native to Mexico. These succulents that hang produce blue-green to lime-green pointy leaves that are long. The stems grow on long stems that trail downwards and appear tail like hence the name.
Sedum morganianum‘ Donkey’s Tail’ Care
Donkey’s Tail’ is rather drought resistant especially when mature. Provide the trailing succulent with well-drained soil. Just like the other succulents, water when the soil is dry to avoid overwatering. After giving the succulent a good drink, wait for the soil to dry before watering again.
Plant the trailing plant in a location it will get indirect sunlight for best results. It is a great addition to hanging baskets as well as in different arrangements with trailing plants.
Sedum burrito ‘Baby Donkey Tail’
Sedum burrito ‘Baby Donkey Tail’ is also commonly known as the ‘Burro’s Tail’ which causes it to be confused with the ‘Donkey’s Tail’.
This hanging succulent is native to Mexico. It has long stems which can be differentiated from the ‘Donkey tail’ because of the shape of the leaves. The leaves are plump and dense which are much shorter and smaller compared to those of the ‘Donkey Tail’. The leaves are also blue-green to lime-green in color.
Sedum burrito ‘Baby Donkey Tail’ Care
‘Baby Donkey Tail’ is easy to grow. Apart from providing the plant with well-draining soil, they also require bright but indirect sunlight.
The watering needs of the hanging succulent are higher during the warmer Summer months and less during the Winter months. Just like with the other succulent’s water deeply and allow the top inch of the soil to dry in between watering cycles.
These eye-catching succulents are popular and used in hanging baskets as well as in raised planters which allow them to spill over the edges. They can also be used creating a wall display.
When mature they produce fragrant blooms.
Buy the ‘Baby Donkey Tail’
Aporocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat Tail Cactus’
Aporocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat Tail Cactus’ is native to Mexico. This trailing cactus can be grown both indoor and outdoor. ‘Rat Tail cactus’ produce stems that grow up to 1 meter long.
The stems produce small, fine spines that are neatly packed together. When mature, the cactus produces gorgeous red and pink colored blooms.
Aporocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat Tail Cactus’ Care
‘Rat Tail Cactus’ can do well in cactus soil mix which is well-draining. The succulent plant also does well in a bright area.
Watering should be done when the soil is dry and should be more frequent during the hotter Summer months.
‘Rat Tail Cactus’ propagation is done using stem cuttings. Propagated stems root easily and can easily be established in the soil.
The succulent also performs best when grown in hanging baskets which allows the long stems to grow and spread freely. Tall pots or raised planters are also suitable.
Hoya Plant ‘Wax Plant’
Hoya Plant ‘Wax Plant’ is also known as the ‘Hindu Rope’. It is native to East Asia, India, and Australia.
The plant has vine-like qualities and produces leaves that are thick and almost heart-shaped. The leaves have a deep green color. It is not one of the common types of cacti and succulents that hang or trail but it’s a great plant.
Hoya Plant ‘Wax Plant’ Care
‘Wax Plant’ should be grown in partial shade to thrive. Although they need light, they don’t do well in under direct and intense sunlight that is unfiltered.
They can be grown both indoor as house plants as well as outdoor. Grow them in hanging baskets and allow the stems to hang over the edges.
The Hoya plant also requires more moisture compared to other succulents. Water when the soil is dry and increase the frequency of watering during growing months in the Summer and reduce frequency during Winter.
Hildewintera Colademononis ‘Monkey’s Tail’
Hildewintera Colademononis ‘Monkey’s Tail’ is native to Bolivia. The cactus is epilithic and grows on rocks.
This interesting cactus produces light green stems which are covered with long, white, soft-hairy spines. When they are young, the stems are clumped together and grow upright. As they mature, they begin to trail and grow as long as 2,5 meters long.
Hildewintera Colademononis ‘Monkey’s Tail’ Care
‘Monkey’s Tail’ can tolerate full sunlight, the long hairs protect the plant from extreme heat and frost. They, however, need well-draining soil that will not cause root rot.
When watering, keep the soil relatively dry during Winter and water during warmer Summer months.
When mature, the hanging plants produce showy bring magenta or red blooms.
This is one of the most interesting succulents that hang and trail to have to grow in any space. It has so much character and creates so much interest.
Echinopsis Chamaecereus ‘Peanut Cactus’
Echinopsis Chamaecereus ‘Peanut Cactus’ is native to Argentina. This cactus that hangs produces finger-like stems that clump together and can reach up to 10cm long.
The stems have small, soft, and bristly white spines. On reaching maturity, the cactus produces showy orange-red blooms. An interesting addition to cacti and succulents that hang and trail.
Echinopsis Chamaecereus ‘Peanut Cactus’ Care
‘Peanut Cactus’ require more watering when the weather is hot compared to when the temperatures are cooler. Water deeply when the top inch of the soil is dry.
Grow them in pots filled with well-draining potting mix. The hanging baskets are ideal for the cactus because they allow the plant’s stems to grow and branch freely.
Othonna capensis ‘Ruby Necklace’
Othonna capensis ‘Ruby Necklace’ is also known as the ‘Little Pickles’. This vibrant hanging succulent is native to South Africa. ‘Ruby Necklace’ produce reddish-purple stems lined with bean-shaped, plump leaves that are green-bluish in color.
When mature, the ‘Ruby Necklace’ produces beautiful yellow blooms that look like daisies.
Othonna capensis ‘Ruby Necklace’ Care
The hanging plant thrives when established in a location where they get bright sunlight. It’s one of the succulents that will tolerate full sun without sustaining any damages.
They also require well-draining soil mix. Just like with most other succulent plants, watering should be done when the soil is dry. Higher frequency of watering during Summer and less during colder Winter months.
Sedum Little Missy ‘Sedum Petite Bicolor’
Sedum Little Missy ‘Sedum Petite Bicolor’ is an evergreen perennial succulent. The ‘Little Missy’ is mat-forming and produces many stems. It produces green-grey leaves with a pale green and pinkish touch on the margins.
‘Little Missy’ also produces clusters of pink and white flowers that bloom in the Summer.
Sedum Little Missy ‘Sedum Petite Bicolor’ Care
‘Sedum Petite Bicolor’ is a low maintenance succulent that shouldn’t be babied. The succulent is not fussy and will thrive in most conditions where other plants are struggling.
They grow well in hanging baskets, containers, planters, as well as directly in the ground. Plant them in the parts of your yard where you are struggling to grow anything else.
‘Little Missy’ propagation is as easy as it gets. In fact, stem cuttings dropped on the ground will just start to root especially with the shorter varieties. When propagating the long varieties, stick the cut stems into the soil and they will also grow easily.
Conclusion
Cacti and succulents that hang or trail are great additions to any outdoor or indoor space. Not only are they easy to take care of but they also bring great interest and character.
If you liked this post on Cacti and Succulents that hang or trail or found it helpful, please share it and also follow us on Pinterest for more helpful posts.
