Transforming your bathroom into a lush oasis is easier than you think. With our curated selection of 17 best plants for a bathroom, you can bring life to this often-overlooked space and turn it into a calming retreat.
Whether you have a large or small bathroom, you can add still some houseplants to personalize your bathroom even more. The humidity typically found in these spaces creates an ideal environment for many houseplants that thrive in moisture. But, not all plants can handle these conditions. This makes it so important to choose the right bathroom plants before you buy some.
Let us help you create a spa-like atmosphere that you’ll surely love. From towering potted trees to delicate hanging plants, we’ll guide you in selecting the best plants for your bathroom to create that stunning jungle aesthetic.
Are you looking into transforming your bathroom into a luxurious but functional space that meets your style? Upgrade your space with Nero Tapware’s endless collection of bathroom tapware products and accessories. Contact us and let your home speak your style!
Here are the best plants for a bathroom including plants that absorb moisture for small, large, or windowless bathrooms:
To ensure that you pick the best bathroom plants for humid environments, we have curated a total of 17 houseplants and categorized them into three to make it easy for you to find your ideal bathroom plant:
- 7 Best Plants for Bathroom With No Light or Low Light
- 5 Best Plants for Small Bathrooms
- 5 Best Plants for Large Bathrooms
7 Best Plants for Bathroom With No Light or Low Light
Many spaces in your home lack natural light, but that doesn’t mean you have to forgo the joy of houseplants. While sunlight exposure is important, there are plants that thrive in low-light conditions for people with windowless bathrooms. Some hardy varieties can even handle near-total darkness.
Tips When Choosing the Best Plants for Bathrooms With No Windows
- Choose plants with subtle leaves and modest flowers.
- Avoid plants that need a lot of light like those with lush foliage and vibrant blooms.
- Opt for resilient, low-maintenance plants that grow slowly and need minimal watering.
Tip for Caring Plants for Bathrooms With No or Low Light: Rotate Your Plants Regularly
To ensure your bathroom plants thrive, consider rotating them regularly. Moving plants in and out of your lightless bathroom allows them to enjoy brief periods in brighter spaces. Moreover, incorporating grow lights into your bathroom setup can help with your plants’ growth.
Now, let’s go to the best plants for bathroom with no windows or light that are ideal for humid environments in the bathroom you can choose from below:
#1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata / Dracaena trifasciata)
Other Common Name/s: Mother-in-law’s Tongue, Saint George’s Sword, Good Luck Plant, Golden Bird’s Nest
The snake plant is an upright succulent with tall, narrow leaves that resemble knife blades. It can grow up to 3 or 4 feet tall, depending on the cultivar. Its thick, stiff leaves come in various shades and patterns of green which add to its visual appeal. Since it’s leaves grow vertically, it is also an excellent option for small bathrooms with limited space.
Moreover, studies performed by NASA show that the snake plant helps filter out harmful toxins from the air. Thus, improving indoor air quality which makes it even better for small bathrooms.
Snake Plant Care Tips
- Water: Water the plant every 1 to 2 weeks. For humid bathroom environments, water less frequently. Also, let the soil dry out between waterings.
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but adapts well to low or no light for bathrooms with minimal windows or no windows.
- Humidity and Temperature: Thrives in high humidity and can tolerate both average and low temperatures. It is perfect even in guest or seldom-used bathrooms.
- Extra Care: Make sure to dust the leaves occasionally to help them absorb light and moisture.
#2. Boston Fern / Sword Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Other Common Names: Bostonfern, Fluffy Ruffles, Dwarf Feather Palm
The Boston fern’s feather-like fronds and dense, bushy appearance make it perfect for hanging baskets or placing on a stand where its graceful leaves can cascade beautifully. This plant enjoys the steam from showers and soaking up moisture from the air. As a bonus, it’s pet-friendly and helps remove toxins such as formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the air.
Boston Fern Care Tips
- Water: Water it weekly to keep the soil consistently moist. In a steamy bathroom, the fern will naturally absorb moisture from the air. Do not overdry the soil.
- Light: They can tolerate lower light but thrive in medium, indirect light. Keep the plant out of direct sunlight to avoid leaf scorch.
- Humidity & Temperature: High humidity and warm conditions, preferably a steamy bathroom. If humidity is low, you can mist the plant or use a humidifier.
#3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Other Common Names: Ribbon Plant, Spider Ivy, Spider Rope, Chlorophytum, Walking Anthericum, Anthericum Comosum
The Spider Plant is a popular, easy-care houseplant with long, slender, green leaves, often with white stripes. They are known for producing “baby spidies” on their stems which makes them easy to propagate. And since they are native to Central and Southern Africa, they are perfect for bathrooms due to their ability to handle warm, humid, and low-light conditions.
Spider Plant Care Tips
- Water: Water regularly, but allow the top inch of soil to dry out first to prevent root rot. Keep the soil moderately moist and do not overwater.
- Light: Low to bright indirect light, so it can thrive in bathrooms with little to no natural sunlight and even in windowless spaces.
- Humidity: High humidity, perfect for bathrooms with frequent showers.
- Temperature: The plant does well in medium-to-low temperatures. It can handle cooler environments but thrives in warm conditions.
#4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii)
Other Common Names: White Sails, Spathe Flower
The Peace Lily is a popular bathroom plant due to its glossy, oval, deep green foliage and striking white flower-like spathes. Despite its name, this plant is not actually a lily, but its blooms, which rise from tall stalks, provide an elegant and calming aesthetic.
Additionally, NASA analysis revealed that Peace Lily’s were the most efficient at removing indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. They can also absorb mold, mildew, and other impurities from the air. This makes them a health-conscious choice for bathrooms prone to moisture buildup.
NOTE: Peace lilies are mildly toxic to pets and small children when ingested, so keep it out of their reach.
Peace Lily Care Tips
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not soggy. These plants prefer rainwater but will do well with filtered water too. Allow the top inch of soil dry out before watering.
- Light: Peace Lilies prefer indirect or dappled sunlight but can survive in low light. In a bathroom with no windows, it’s best to rotate the plant between the bathroom and a brighter location every few weeks.
- Humidity: High humidity is ideal. They thrive in warm, steamy environments where the air is moist after showers.
- Temperature: Peace Lilies are tolerant of cooler temperatures but thrive in warmth, typically around 60-85°F (15-29°C).
#5. Pothos / Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum)
Other Common Name/s: Golden Pothos, Devil’s Vine, Ivy Arum, Taro Vine, Marble Queen
Pothos is celebrated for its lush, cascading green leaves and vining habit. This resilient plant closely resembles the heart-leaved variety of Philodendron (P. hederaceum) and can grow impressively fast (up to a foot (30 cm) of growth each month).
When cultivated indoors, Pothos vines can reach lengths of 6 to 10 feet or even longer. Regular pruning just above a leaf node encourages a fuller, bushier appearance.
Pothos plants are effective air purifiers.
Pothos’ Hardiness
This plant is extremely hardy and forgiving and is almost indestructible. Thus, it is perfect for those who might not have a green thumb or often forget to care for their plants.
NOTE: It’s important to note that all parts of the Pothos plant are toxic if ingested, so keep it out of reach of pets and small children.
Pothos Plant Care Tips
- Water: Water when the top 2 inches of soil are completely dry, typically every 1-2 weeks depending on your home’s humidity and temperature. If you’re not sure, it’s always better to underwater than overwater.
- Light: Bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight.
- Temperature & Humidity: Adaptable to most temperature ranges but prefers medium to high humidity. Ideal temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C).
- Display: You can train Pothos to climb or trail from shelves.
#6. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum / Philodendron scandens)
Other Common Name/s: Philodendron, Parlor Ivy, Sweetheart Plant
The Heartleaf Philodendron is a climbing plant with elegantly heart-shaped, glossy leaves that grow on long, trailing vines. It’s an excellent choice for adding a cascading effect to your shelves, baskets, or planters. This plant is low-maintenance which makes it perfect for beginners and like the other plants we previously listed, it also helps cleanse the air by filtering toxins including formaldehyde.
Heartleaf Philodendron Care Tips
- Water: Tolerates inconsistent watering. Let the soil dry out slightly between waterings to avoid sogginess.
- Light: Thrives in dappled light but adapts well to low light, perfect for bathrooms with minimal natural light.
- Humidity & Temperature: Prefers humid conditions.
- Growth Maintenance: Pinch back growing tips for a fuller look. You can also let the tips trail for a cascading effect.
#7. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Other Common Name/s: Zuzu Plant, Aroid Palm, Eternity Plant, Emerald Palm, Zanzibar Gem
This unique plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has glossy, dark green leaves arranged in pairs along tall stems. It is perfect for adding a tropical touch to your bathroom. It has a slow growth rate which ensures that it won’t outgrow its space quickly, so it is also perfect for smaller bathrooms.
The ZZ plant is almost unkillable as it requires watering only every two to three weeks. This unfussy nature makes it an excellent option for beginners.
ZZ Plant Care Tips
- Water: Water every 2-3 weeks. Let the soil dry out fully between waterings. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- Light: Thrives in indirect light and can easily survive with minimal natural or fluorescent lighting. Ideal for dim bathrooms.
- Humidity & Temperature: Average to low humidity, suiting most bathroom environments. Prefers average room temperatures but can tolerate cooler conditions in chilly bathrooms.
9 Other best plants for bathroom with no windows you can explore include:
- Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)
- Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
- Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
- Maidenhair fern (Adiantum)
- English Ivy (Hedera helix)
- Cretan brake fern (Pteris cretica/nipponica AGM)
- Umbrella plant (Cyperus)
- Clubmosses (Selaginella)
- Mind-your-own-business (Soleirolia soleirolii)
Also Read: A Buyer’s Guide: 27 Tips on How to Choose Bathroom Tiles
5 Best Plants for Small Bathrooms
For bathrooms with limited spaces, here are the best small bathroom houseplants for you:
#1. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Other Common Names: Water Bamboo, Ribbon Plant, Friendship Bamboo, Chinese Water Bamboo
Known for bringing good luck to homes, Lucky Bamboo is a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts. If you want to prevent the plant from becoming invasive (as it often does in outdoor gardens), it is best to grow it in containers to help control its size.
Lucky Bamboo Care Tips
- Light: Bright, indirect light. Do not exposed to direct sunlight.
- Water: Typically once a week, but this may vary based on light conditions and temperature. If grown in water, add a drop of liquid houseplant fertilizer monthly.
- Temperature: Ideal temperatures range from 65°F to 90°F (18°C to 32°C). Avoid stressing the plant by keeping it away from drafts and sudden temperature changes.
- Humidity: Prefers medium to high humidity levels, ideally between 50% to 70% relative humidity, to promote lush growth and potential flowering.
#2. String of Pearls (Curio rowleyanus)
Previously known as: Senecio rowleyanus
Other Common Names: String of Peas, String of Marbles, String of Beads, Rosary Vine, Necklace Plant, Irish Beads, Bead Plant
The String of Pearls is a unique trailing succulent characterized by its long vines adorned with small, round, bead-like leaves. These leaves resemble pearls and come in light green. Some varieties also feature variegated or striped patterns. It is a fast-growing plant that can reach lengths of up to 1 meter. So if you love plants that you can hang from your planters or shelves, String of Pearls is perfect for you!
In spring, it may produce small, fragrant white flowers with a hint of cinnamon. With proper care, this plant typically thrives for about five years. Plus, you can easily propagate it from cuttings to extend its life.
String of Pearls Care Tips
- Light: Bright, indirect light and well-lit bathrooms that don’t become overly steamy.
- Water: Water thoroughly but infrequently. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as this succulent is prone to overwatering.
- Temperature: Adaptable to most temperatures, but it performs best in moderate conditions.
- Humidity: Low humidity levels in bathrooms that have good air circulation
#3. Air Plant (Tillandsia xerographica)
Air plants have a fun, spiky look that can add a touch of personality to your bathroom decor. As epiphytes, air plants don’t require soil. They attach themselves to other objects and absorb nutrients and moisture directly from the air and rain. So, it is incredibly low-maintenance.
You can place air plants in pots, on plates, or simply on windowsills. You can also hung or mount them on your walls. To make it more creative, you can mount them on driftwood or place them in glass bowls for a minimalist aesthetic.
Air Plant Care Tips
- Light: Bright but indirect light. Avoid placing them near drafty windows.
- Water: Soak the plant in water for 20-30 minutes every week or two, depending on humidity. If it’s turning brown, adjust your watering frequency.
- Humidity & Temperature: High humidity and warmer temperatures.
#4. Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis species)
Other Common Name/s: Moon Orchid
Moth orchids are striking houseplants known for their bright, delicate flowers, which come in a stunning array of colors, including bold blues and pastel pinks. These flowers also have unique patterns that can add a luxurious aesthetic to your bathroom for up to six months.
Tip: Choose a classic white Phalaenopsis for timeless elegance or bold pink varieties for a vibrant pop of color.
Moreover, moth orchids are low-maintenance and can handle some neglect. Thus, they are suitable for both novice and experienced plant owners.
Moth Orchid Care Tips
- Light: They prefer bright, indirect light, but can tolerate low light.
- Water: Water once a week. Make sure the potting medium drains well to prevent waterlogging.
- Temperature: Warm conditions, ideally above 16°C, and do well in heated, steamy bathrooms.
- Humidity: Moth orchids thrive in humid environments and absorb moisture through their aerial roots.
#5. Flamingo Flower / Laceleaf (Anthurium)
Other Common Name/s: Tailflower, Flamingo Lily
Known for its striking beauty, the Flamingo flower features heart-shaped, glossy leaves and bright red or vivid magenta spathes. This eye-catching plant adds an exotic touch to any small bathroom and can create a vibrant focal point. Moreover, the Flamingo flower is known for its ability to bloom throughout the year. This means it can provide a burst of color in any season.
Flamingo Flower Care Tips
- Light: Anthuriums prefer indirect sunlight.
- Water: Water regularly to maintain the humidity levels this plant craves. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Temperature: Medium-to-high warmth, suitable for most bathroom temperatures.
- Humidity: Loves the high humidity in a steamy bathroom.
- Maintenance: Anthuriums require very little maintenance. To encourage new growth, trim off any dead flowers or yellowed leaves periodically.
9 Other Best Houseplants for Small Bathrooms to Explore
- Spiderwort / Wandering Jew / Inch Plant (Tradescantia zebrina)
- Bird’s nest fern (Asplenium nidus)
- Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
- Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata)
- Pothos / Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum)
- Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)
- Heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
- Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
- Polka dot begonia (Begonia maculate)
Also Read: How to Choose a Color Palette for Your Home’s Interior Design
5 Best Plants for Large Bathrooms
Got a spacious bathroom? Here are the best large bathroom houseplant options for you!
#1. Calathea ‘Freddie’ / Prayer Plant
Other Common Names: Calathea Concinna Freddie, Zebra Calathea, Calathea Leopardina, Zebra Plant
Calathea ‘Freddie,’ also known as the Prayer Plant, is admired for its striking zebra-like stripes and glossy leaves. These plants are native to the Brazilian jungle and with a unique feature of closing their leaves at night and opening them during the day which is said to symbolize new beginnings and birth.
Tip: Calathea varieties like the ‘Freddie’ are more tolerant of low light compared to other Calathea types.
Calathea ‘Freddie’ Care Tips
- Light: Prefers bright to medium indirect light but can tolerate low indirect light.
- Water: Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering. Water when the top third of the soil dries out, usually every 1-2 weeks. Avoid tap water if possible; use filtered water.
- Temperature & Humidity: Thrives in high humidity environments like bathrooms. Avoid placing it near drafts or direct air vents.
#2. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
Named for the rubbery latex running through its stems, the rubber plant is an ideal addition to your bathroom with its glossy, striking leaves that bring a refreshing, natural feel. Its size makes it a great choice for adding greenery to your floor space and transforms your bathroom into a mini green paradise.
Rubber Plant Care Tips
- Light: Prefers medium-to-high levels of indirect sunlight but can tolerate lower light.
- Water: Water when the topsoil dries out.
- Humidity & Temperature: Loves high humidity, ideal for steamy bathrooms. Suits most temperatures, but thrives in warmth.
#3. Majesty Palm (Ravenea rivularis)
The Majesty Palm adds a stunning, graceful touch to spacious bathrooms with plenty of natural light. With its tall stature and arching, glossy green fronds, this plant is perfect for high-ceilinged spaces. Thus, making a bold statement in larger bathrooms.
Although it can grow up to 10-12 feet indoors, it’s manageable as a potted plant. The plant’s lush leaves thrive in humid environments, making it an ideal companion for the bathroom, especially for open, airy spaces.
However, due to its somewhat finicky nature, it’s better suited for experienced plant owners.
Majesty Palm Care Tips
- Light: Bright, indirect light but can tolerate some light shade. Place it near a window with filtered sunlight to help it flourish.
- Water: Water every 1-2 weeks; let soil dry halfway between waterings. Water more frequently in brighter light.
- Temperature & Humidity: Not too dry, not too moist (not a rainforest drench or a desert vibe). Optimal humidity is around 40-60%.
#4. Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa)
Other Common Names: Split-leaf Philodendron, Mexican Breadfruit, Hurricane Plant, Cutleaf Philodendron, Ceriman
The Monstera deliciosa, commonly known as the Swiss cheese plant, is famous for its large, glossy, dark green leaves that develop natural holes. Such a look can give your bathroom a unique tropical look. Its deep-green, waxy leaves and distinctive architectural structure also add an exotic flair for creating a jungle-like vibe in larger bathrooms.
Native to rainforests, its unique holey leaves allow rain to pass through easily. This means it can thrive in wet bathroom environments. And because this plant is hardy and easy-to-care-for, it is ideal for first-time plant parents or those seeking a low-maintenance option for their bathroom space.
Swiss Cheese Plant Care Tips
- Light: Thrives in indirect light, perfect for low-light bathrooms.
- Water: Allow the soil to dry out about 75% between waterings. Monsteras don’t need constant watering but enjoy the high humidity of bathrooms.
- Temperature & Humidity: Loves humid environments and warm conditions, similar to its rainforest origins.
- Bonus Tip: Polish its leaves with coconut oil occasionally to keep them looking glossy and healthy.
#5. Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)
Other Common Names: Small-leaved Rubber Plant, Java Fig, Indian Rubber Plant, Chinese Banyan, Benjamin Tree
The weeping fig is an elegant evergreen houseplant recognized for its shiny green foliage and slightly drooping branches. Its leaves are elongated, light green when young, and darken as they mature. Depending on the variety, some leaves may have attractive patterns with colors like yellow, white, or variegated shades.
In nature, the weeping fig can reach heights of up to 18 meters. But indoors, it stays around 3 meters. Moreover, you can train smaller varieties as bonsais.
NOTE:
- Air Purification: The weeping fig helps filter pollutants like formaldehyde from the air.
- Allergy Caution: The milky sap contains allergens similar to latex, which may cause reactions for sensitive individuals.
Weeping Fig Care Tips
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Green-leaf varieties handle lower light, while variegated types need more. Avoid moving the plant frequently.
- Water: Water when the topsoil is dry, but avoid overwatering. Mist leaves regularly to maintain humidity.
- Temperature: Ideal temperatures are above 20°C; avoid drops below 16°C. It can go outdoors in summer if warm enough.
- Humidity: High humidity is essential. Mist leaves regularly, especially in drier indoor spaces.
7 Other Plants for Large Bathrooms to Explore
- Asparagus Fern / Foxtail Fern (Asparagus densiflorus)
- ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
- Peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii)
- Bird’s nest fern (Asplenium nidus)
- Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
- Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
- Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Other Important Things to Know About Choosing the Best Houseplants for Your Bathroom
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Plants for Your Bathroom
- Consider the “right plant, right place” principle. Choose plants that thrive in warm, humid bathroom environments.
- Assess specific bathroom conditions like size, shape, temperature, light, and humidity before choosing a plant.
- Choose plants based on available light.
- Pick plants that tolerate warmth or cooler conditions depending on your bathroom’s temperature.
- Opt for moisture-loving plants for humid bathrooms. Choose low-maintenance plants for less humid guest bathrooms.
- Consider available space. Compact plants work well in small bathrooms while larger spaces can accommodate bigger plants.
- Match the plant’s aesthetic to your bathroom’s style and color scheme.
- Factor in your ability to maintain the plant, choosing low-maintenance options if necessary.
To get the most out of your bathroom design and decor, let Nero Tapware help you create a space that combines elegance and functionality with your personal touch. We offer a wide selection of premium tapware and accessories to help you showcase your unique taste. Get in touch with us today!
FAQs
What plants are best for bathrooms?
The best bathroom plants that can thrive in humid environments and some even in low light conditions and windowless bathrooms include the following:
For bathrooms with no light or low light:
- Snake plant
- Boston fern
- Spider plant
- Peace lily
- Pothos
- Heartleaf philodendron
- ZZ plant
For small bathrooms:
- Lucky bamboo
- String of pearls
- Air plant
- Moth orchid
- Flamingo flower
For large bathrooms:
- Calathea ‘Freddie’ (Prayer plant)
- Rubber plant
- Majesty palm
- Large Swiss cheese plant
- Weeping fig
What plant absorbs moisture in a bathroom? What plants are good for damp rooms?
Moisture-absorbing plants for bathrooms that can reduce mold and mildew by absorbing excess moisture in the air include the following:
- English ivy
- Spider plant
- Aloe vera
- Boston fern
- Bamboo sanderiana
- Peace lily
- Snake plant
- Calatheas
- Pothos
- Orchids
Can plants survive in a bathroom without light?
For windowless bathrooms with no or low light, consider the following houseplants:
- ZZ plants
- Pothos
- Spider plant
- Snake plant
- Boston fern
- Peace lily
- Hearlef philodendron
What plants smell good in the bathroom?
If you want your bathroom to smell nice, you can try the following houseplants:
- Gardenia
- Jasmine
- Hoya
- Orchid
- Peace lily
- Lemon button fern