10 House Plants That Thrive in Bathrooms

Introducing houseplants to your bathroom can enhance the aesthetic appeal and promote a healthier environment. Many species thrive in the warm and humid conditions typically found in bathrooms, making them the perfect addition to your decor.

Houseplants suitable for the bathroom often come from tropical regions, where they are accustomed to high humidity and warmth. They help create a calming atmosphere that can transform your bathroom into a refreshing oasis.

In the list to follow, I will cover various houseplants ideal for different bathroom conditions, including those that prefer low light, minimal care, and compact spaces. Finding the perfect plant for your bathroom has never been easier.

Why House Plants In The Bathroom?

Introducing house plants to your bathroom can offer numerous benefits to both the space and the plants themselves. Bathrooms typically have a higher humidity level compared to other rooms in your home due to the frequent use of hot water from showers and baths. This high humidity and steam create a humid environment that is perfect for moisture-loving plants.

Many bathroom plants thrive in low light conditions, meaning they can adapt to the typically limited natural light available in such spaces. This is ideal for bathrooms with small windows or those located in the interior of a building. Some popular plants for these environments include asparagus fern, begonia, and orchids.

Incorporating houseplants into your bathroom is an excellent way to improve the overall ambiance of the space. Not only do plants add a touch of nature and beauty, but they can result in a fresher and more pleasant atmosphere.

Another advantage of having plants in your bathroom is they can aid in reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Greenery and natural elements incorporated in interior design are known to have a calming and soothing effect on the mind.

Understanding Bathroom Light Conditions

When considering houseplants for your bathroom, it’s important to understand the various light conditions that exist in this space. Most bathrooms tend to have low-light conditions as they often lack large windows or receive limited direct sunlight.

However, your bathroom may have windows that offer bright, indirect sunlight or even full sun – I don’t know, I’ve not seen it!

Low Light: This term refers to spaces that receive little to no natural light, often due to small or obstructed north-facing windows. Bathroom plants that thrive in low light include snake plants, ferns, and peace lilies. These plants can tolerate minimal natural light without affecting their growth.

Direct Sunlight: Some bathrooms may receive direct sunlight for a few hours per day, especially those with large or south-facing windows. Be cautious with placing your houseplants in direct sunlight, as many tropical plants can suffer from sunburn if exposed to the sun’s rays for an extended period.

Bright, Indirect Sunlight: This ideal light condition occurs when sunlight is filtered through a barrier (such as a sheer curtain) or reflected off surfaces, avoiding direct contact with the plant. Plants like begonias and neon pothos thrive in bright, indirect light and can add a pop of color to your bathroom.

Full Sun: Bathrooms with large windows receiving prolonged direct sunlight are considered full sun spaces. This light condition is less common in bathrooms, but if your space falls into this category, consider adding plants that enjoy the sun, such as aloe vera or succulents.

Bathroom Temperature and Humidity

Bathrooms provide a unique environment for plants due to the fluctuating temperatures and high humidity levels. As a result, choosing the right plants for your bathroom is crucial for their survival and growth.

It’s important to consider the temperature of your bathroom, as it varies from season to season. During the colder months, the bathroom temperature may significantly drop, especially at night. Some plants may not survive these drastic changes, so make sure to select ones that are more adaptable.

At the same time, steam from a hot shower contributes to the high humidity levels in bathrooms, which can be beneficial for some plants. Tropical plants, for example, prefer a humid environment and may thrive in your bathroom due to their natural affinity for moisture.

Here are a few factors to consider when choosing plants for your bathroom:

• Light Exposure: Pick plants that can tolerate low to medium light levels, as bathrooms usually do not offer abundant sources of natural light.
• Temperature Fluctuations: Choose plants that can withstand occasional drops in temperature, especially during the winter months, but still perform well in higher temperatures typical of bathrooms.
• Humidity Levels: Select plants that thrive in high humidity environments, as the moisture levels in your bathroom can be quite elevated.

Best Low Light Bathroom Plants

Bathrooms can often have limited natural light, making it a challenge to find suitable plants to brighten up space. Fortunately, several houseplants thrive in low light conditions while also benefitting from the humidity often found in bathrooms. The following plants are ideal options for creating a serene, lush atmosphere in your bathroom:

Pothos: Also referred to as Devil’s Ivy, this popular houseplant is known for its attractive trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves. It thrives in low light conditions and doesn’t require frequent watering. Additionally, Pothos are excellent air purifiers that help remove toxins like formaldehyde and benzene.

Snake Plant: This hardy and tall-growing plant is famous for its ability to tolerate low light and can withstand occasional neglect. Its long, upright leaves are excellent for adding a touch of vertical interest to your bathroom. The Snake Plant also ranks high for air-purifying capabilities, making it a great choice for improving indoor air quality.

Philodendron: Sporting large, glossy leaves, Philodendron plants are adaptable and perform well in low light. Their striking foliage adds a splash of green to any bathroom. Remember to water your Philodendron sparingly as it doesn’t appreciate consistently damp soil.

Peace Lily: A low-light loving plant with charming white flowers, the Peace Lily adds elegance and beauty to any bathroom. It also acts as a natural air purifier, removing toxins and bacteria from the air. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

ZZ Plant: Known for its waxy, dark green leaves, the ZZ Plant is a low-maintenance option for bathrooms with little natural light. It can handle periods of drought, making it a great choice for those who might forget to water their plants. Ensure the soil dries out between waterings to avoid soggy conditions.

Spider Plant: This plant’s long, arching leaves and small offshoots create a visually appealing display. Spider Plants thrive in low light, making them a perfect addition to a dimly lit bathroom. They also aid in removing allergens from the air, contributing to improved air quality.

Dragon Tree: With its long, slender leaves and thick stem, the Dragon Tree is an eye-catching plant suitable for low light. It tolerates inconsistent watering and doesn’t require high humidity, making it a perfect addition to any bathroom.

Ideal Humidity-Loving Plants for Bathrooms

Bathrooms offer a unique environment for houseplants, as they typically have higher humidity levels compared to other rooms in your home. This makes them an excellent location for a variety of humidity-loving plants. In this section, we will discuss some of the top plant choices for your bathroom, providing you with a confident and knowledgeable selection.

Ferns: These versatile and attractive plants are well-suited for the bathroom environment, as many of them thrive in high humidity. Some popular options include the Boston fern, Kimberly Queen fern, and bird’s nest fern. Place them by a window or in a location where they can receive adequate levels of indirect light.

Orchids: Orchids are a stunning and exotic choice for bathrooms. Varieties such as Dendrobium, Phalaenopsis, and Paphiopedilums will do well in damp, warm conditions, provided they receive bright, filtered light. Orchids grow in bark instead of soil, which makes them less likely to suffer from waterlogging or root rot.

Bamboo: This low-maintenance plant is an excellent addition to bathrooms. Lucky bamboo can easily grow in vases with just water, making it perfect for small spaces or countertops. Ensure it receives indirect light and clean water to keep this plant happy and thriving.

Air Plants: Ideal for individuals who may lack a green thumb, air plants, or Tillandsias, do not require soil and can be placed virtually anywhere in your bathroom. Their unique appearance and minimal care requirements make them an ideal choice. Provide bright, indirect light and soak them in water once a week to provide the necessary hydration.

Bromeliads: A diverse group of tropical plants that will add a splash of color and texture to any bathroom. With their unique foliage and interesting shapes, bromeliads are a perfect choice for creating visual intrigue. They prefer filtered light and well-draining soil to keep their roots healthy.

Monstera: The popular Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss cheese plant, is another great option for bathrooms. Its iconic large, split leaves will bring a touch of the tropics to your space. Monstera plants prefer bright, indirect light and will appreciate the increased humidity of a bathroom setting.

My Top 10 Bathroom Plants

1. Peace Lily

Peace Lilies (Spathiphyllum) are perfect for bathrooms due to their ability to thrive in low light and humid conditions. This beautiful plant is known for its delicate flowers and lush foliage.

Its graceful white flowers make it an excellent choice for someone looking for a visually appealing yet low-maintenance plant.

2. Orchid

Orchids are eye-catching additions to a bathroom. They are not demanding and appreciate the humidity they receive from the room.

There are many varieties to choose from, but all share the common attribute of producing stunning, colorful flowers.

3. Dragon Tree

The Dragon Tree (Dracaena marginata) is a low-maintenance plant that is both stylish and effective at improving air quality. Its striking appearance includes long, thin leaves with red edges, making it an attractive addition to any bathroom.

4. Bromeliad

Bromeliads are tropical plants that come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. They are perfect for bathrooms because they can thrive in low light and humid conditions.

With a bromeliad you water the stem of the plant, which forms a natural bowl, rather than the soil and roots of the plant.

5. Dragon’s Tongue

Dragon’s Tongue (Hemigraphis repanda) is a low-maintenance plant with purple-green leaves that thrive in humid environments. Its creeping growth habit makes it an ideal candidate for hanging baskets, making a bold statement in your bathroom.

6. Pothos

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), also known as Devil’s Ivy, is an easy-to-care-for plant with heart-shaped leaves that can withstand low light and moist conditions. Its vine-like growth pattern makes it a great option for draping over shelves or hanging in a bathroom.

7. Spider Plant

The Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is another excellent choice for your bathroom. This hardy, low light-tolerant plant produces slender, arching leaves and sprouts baby plants that can be easily propagated. It is known for its air-purifying abilities.

8. Swiss Cheese Plant

The Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa) is a popular choice for indoor spaces, including bathrooms. This tropical plant, with its distinctive fenestrated leaves, thrives in humid environments and can adapt to different levels of light.

9. Birds Nest Fern

The Birds Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus) is an appealing, low-maintenance fern that loves the humidity of the bathroom. It features ruffled, curled fronds that grow in a rosette pattern, resembling a bird’s nest.

10. Sword Fern

The Sword Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) is another easy-to-care-for fern that enjoys the moisture commonly found in bathrooms. With its delicate, feathery fronds, this plant adds a soft and soothing touch to your space.