A trailing plant is defined by its growth habit, characterized by stems that are too soft or flexible to support themselves vertically. These plants naturally grow horizontally along the ground or cascade downward when positioned near an edge, such as in a hanging container. This unique form dictates their use in landscaping and indoor gardening, making them a popular choice for adding dynamic texture and visual flow to various spaces.
Defining Trailing Growth
The physical structure of a trailing plant’s stem is the primary determinant of its growth pattern. Unlike robust woody plants, trailing varieties typically possess herbaceous stems that are weak and pliable, lacking the rigidity needed for upright self-support. This lack of structural strength means the plant cannot actively resist the force of gravity, resulting in a prone or decumbent posture. The stems elongate and spread outward, maintaining close contact with the substrate as they grow.
Trailing plants do not possess specialized biological adaptations that allow them to attach to or wrap around external supports. Their morphology is characterized by simple, elongating stems that rely entirely on the underlying surface or the pull of gravity for their direction of growth. This allows them to cover large areas quickly in nature or produce a curtain-like effect when suspended. The spreading habit maximizes the plant’s exposure to light and facilitates vegetative reproduction in the wild.
Trailing vs. Climbing Plants
The distinction between trailing and climbing plants rests entirely on their mechanical means of movement and support. Climbing plants, or vines, are active growers that utilize specialized anatomical structures to ascend vertical surfaces. They employ organs such as modified leaves called tendrils, tiny adhesive pads, or aerial roots that firmly anchor them to a wall, trellis, or tree trunk. This ability allows them to exert force and actively grow upwards toward the light source.
In contrast, trailing plants are passive in their growth, relying on gravity and the existing environment for support. They simply drape or spill over the sides of a container or spread across the ground without seeking to attach themselves to vertical objects. While a trailing plant might sprawl over a rock, it does not actively grip or ascend the way a true climber does. This fundamental difference dictates that a climber requires a structure, while a trailer merely requires an edge or an open space to cover.
Horticultural Uses
Trailing plants soften hard lines and introduce movement to static designs in horticulture. One common application is in cascading arrangements, where they are planted in elevated containers like hanging baskets or window boxes. In this configuration, the flexible stems flow downward, creating a dramatic, curtain-like effect. This transforms simple planters into dynamic focal points by maximizing the visual impact of the plant’s length.
Trailing plants also serve a functional role when used as ground cover in garden beds. When planted densely, their spreading habit quickly covers bare soil, suppressing weeds by blocking sunlight. This expansive layer of vegetation stabilizes the topsoil, reducing erosion caused by wind and heavy rainfall, particularly on slopes. Their dense growth provides an aesthetically pleasing, low-maintenance alternative to traditional turf grass.
The third primary use is the “spiller” component in the popular “thriller, filler, and spiller” container gardening formula. Here, the trailing plant is positioned at the edge of a mixed container arrangement, allowing its stems to spill over the rim. This action effectively softens the transition between the rigid container and the plant material, making the overall arrangement appear fuller and more integrated. Using trailers in this manner adds depth and dimension, preventing the planting from looking stiff or isolated.
Popular Trailing Plant Varieties
Many popular indoor and outdoor plants are classified as trailing varieties, each offering a distinct texture and appearance.
Indoor Varieties
For indoor environments, the Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is known for its rapid growth and tolerance of low light, featuring glossy, heart-shaped leaves that cascade from shelves or baskets. The String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) is another common indoor plant, recognized for its unique, spherical leaves strung along thin stems, creating a delicate, beaded appearance.
Outdoor Varieties
In outdoor landscaping, Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia) is used as a vibrant ground cover, known for its small, bright chartreuse leaves that form a dense, low mat. Various types of ivy, such as English Ivy (Hedera helix), are also utilized as trailing ground cover due to their ability to tolerate deep shade and quickly colonize large areas.