Climbing plants are a fun way to jazz up areas like a bookshelf, a fireplace mantel, or even around your artwork. 

There’s no wrong way to incorporate climbing plants in your living room, but there are a few things to consider before you get started. The amount of light your space receives, your ceiling heights, and the level of effort you’re willing to put into caring for plants will determine what your best options are. 

“Having a plant wall is an attention grabber in whatever room you decide to include it,” said Devin Shaffer, lead interior designer at Decorilla Online Interior Design, based in Atlanta. “They’re the best option to have as a transition from indoor to outdoor and vice versa. Strategically placing them in windows and doors, can create softness between spaces.”

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If you’re considering adding climbing plants into your living room, follow the tips below from design pros on how to do it in style.

Know Your Plants and Pick Wisely

“English ivy is a classic and trusted indoor plant option. I like to work with this one because on top of having a really sophisticated and vibrant green color, it’s easy to take care of. It can withstand a wide range of conditions so it’s very adaptable hence its versatility.

“The Golden Pothos or Devil’s Vine is a vibrant and bright plant with yellow and golden splashes. It adds life to any space and is also very low maintenance, hence why so many homes have it. On average it lasts from five to 10 years; a good amount of time for a house plant.

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“The Heart-Leaf Philodendron is a beauty, with its dark green leaves that are eye-catching and work as a perfect addition to indoor spaces. Even though they are sensitive to cold temperatures, as long as they’re inside, they are fine. Their boldness and easy maintenance make them a really good option.”

—Devin Shaffer, lead interior designer at Decorilla Online Interior Design, based in Atlanta

Choose the Right Display

“Shelves with climbing frames are perfect for allowing plants to cascade as they grow, creating a lush, green waterfall effect, while wall hooks and planters are great for guiding your climbers around windows or artwork, adding a dynamic living element to your decor. Hanging baskets are ideal for plants like pothos and string of hearts, especially in corners where they can trail beautifully.

“Taller rooms offer a fantastic opportunity to let climbing plants grow naturally and create a dramatic green curtain effect. For rooms with lower ceilings, encourage horizontal growth along walls for a lush, integrated look.

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“Fast-growing climbers, like ivy or jasmine, can create natural privacy screens when placed near room dividers or tall plant stands. Climbing plants can also be used to accentuate architectural features such as fireplaces or staircases, adding a touch of natural beauty. In brightly lit rooms, climbing plants can provide natural shade when grown across window frames, helping to filter light and create a cozy ambiance.

“Most climbing plants appreciate bright, indirect light. A south-facing window is ideal, but east or west-facing windows can also work well. In darker rooms, consider using grow lights to ensure your plants get the light they need to thrive.

—Julianne Schaefer, founder and principal of interior design firm Collected Studio in Belvedere, California

Play with Textures and Make Your Plants the Statement

“Macrame is a material that has been very trending lately. I love how practical it is and its boho, beach-like style. Macrame plant hangers are my favorite right now and that’s because you can easily place them anywhere. Since they’re made of fabric, it is a customizable material and you can choose your desired height, patterns, colors, etc. 

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“You can consider weaving in an indoor trellis that’s visually appealing and takes the place of a picture. If the living room’s ceiling is lower, then perhaps placing other types of climbing plants near the windows and keeping them in pots will work best.

“Naturally, many plants are air purifiers and Devil’s Ivy in particular is especially good at it. Place it close to seating areas to enjoy its vibrant hues and to cleanse the air where you spend your time lounging.”

—Devin Shaffer, lead interior designer at Decorilla Online Interior Design, based in Atlanta