Most of the ornamental hops you’ll see—specifically those in the *Beloperone* genus (often called Shrimp Plants)—aren’t fans of the cold. Because they aren’t winter-hardy, most of us here in the States keep them as indoor houseplants. You might also run into Japanese Ornamental Hops (*Humulus japonicus*) in garden beds, but keep in mind those are annuals and won’t survive a frost either.
The Best Spot for Overwintering Your Hops
Technically, you can leave your low-maintenance ornamental hops in their usual indoor spot all winter long. However, if you want them to really thrive, they actually prefer a slightly cooler “dormancy” period. Your plant will be much happier if you can move it to a spot that stays around 60°F (15°C).
Generally speaking, anywhere between 55°F and 65°F is the sweet spot. One thing to remember: ornamental hops crave light, even in the winter! Don’t tuck them away in a dark basement. A bright, sun-drenched corner or a draft-free windowsill is a much better choice for their winter home.
Winter Care Done Right
Like most houseplants, ornamental hops need a bit of a “break” during the chilly months. This means less water and zero fertilizer. Since the plant’s metabolism slows down significantly, over-pampering them—including pruning back stems—can actually do more harm than good. Save the haircut for the spring!
If you have perennial varieties, don’t panic if they drop a few leaves. This usually happens if the soil is staying too wet or if the room is a bit too toasty for their liking.
Quick Checklist: Winter Care at a Glance
- Ornamental hops are not winter-hardy (this goes for both annual and perennial types).
- Aim for a winter temperature between 55°F and 65°F (60°F is perfect).
- Avoid overly warm spots, which can cause leggy growth and leaf loss.
- Cut back on watering—this is the #1 rule for winter survival.
- Keep the soil slightly moist; never let it dry out completely.
- Stop fertilizing entirely until March.
- Ensure the plant still gets plenty of bright, natural light.
Pro Tip: Ornamental hops can be a bit more vulnerable to pests during the winter. Every time you water, do a quick “bug check” for aphids or spider mites. If you spot any uninvited guests, you can usually just pick them off or give the plant a gentle rinse in the shower.
