Bathrooms are often overlooked as plant-friendly spaces, but they can actually be ideal for certain types of greenery. The naturally higher humidity from showers and baths creates a microclimate that’s perfect for plants that love moisture.
Bathrooms tend to offer something that most other rooms can’t—constant humidity. Thanks to steamy showers and warm water, these spaces create a cozy environment for certain houseplants that would otherwise struggle in drier parts of the home. Combine that with the often-limited light and compact layout, and you get a very specific niche where only the right bathroom plants will thrive.
With the right choices, even small or low-light bathrooms can support healthy plant growth. It’s all about matching the plant to the conditions.
Best Bathroom Plants That Don’t Die on You
Whether working with a bright, window-filled bathroom or one with only artificial lighting, there are live plants for bathroom spaces of all types. Below are 17 tried-and-true options, including care details and placement ideas.
Spider Plant
Extremely adaptable and perfect for hanging baskets. It’s one of the easiest air purifying house plants for beginners.
Light: Indirect, bright to low light
Water: Keep soil lightly moist
Bonus: Sends out “babies” you can propagate
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Tolerates low light and dry air but does well with humidity too.
Light: Low to bright indirect
Water: Let soil dry between watering
Air-purifying? Absolutely
Peace Lily
Thrives in high humidity and even produces white flowers.
Light: Low to medium
Water: Keep soil evenly moist
Good For: Moisture-absorbing bathroom plants
Boston Fern
Loves steam-filled rooms and looks lush in hanging planters.
Light: Indirect light
Water: Keep consistently moist
Tip: Mist regularly if the bathroom dries out
ZZ Plant
Ideal for bathrooms with no windows or very little natural light.
Light: Very low to bright, indirect
Water: Minimal—only when soil is dry
Great for: Lowlight plants bathroom
Aloe Vera
If the bathroom has decent sunlight, this plant doubles as decor and a natural remedy.
Light: Bright, direct or indirect
Water: Allow soil to fully dry
Pro Tip: Needs good drainage
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
One of the best inside house plants for trailing from shelves or hanging baskets.
Light: Low to bright, indirect
Water: Let topsoil dry out between waterings
Decor Bonus: Works great for plant decor indoor
Pothos thrive in humidity. They can be hanging or climbers, so they are great for a jungle vibe.
Philodendron
Similar to pothos, but with softer, heart-shaped leaves.
Light: Indirect light
Water: Water when top 1-2 inches are dry
Popular in: Best plants for apartments
Calathea (Prayer Plant)
Lush, tropical, and loves humidity—perfect for the bathroom.
Light: Medium to low
Water: Moist soil, hates chlorine
Note: Sensitive to dry air
English Ivy
Great for vertical growing or trailing over the side of a pot.
Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Keep soil slightly moist
Ideal For: Modern bathroom plants decor
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
A tough option that thrives on neglect—great for low-maintenance homes.
Light: Low light
Water: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
Bonus: Resilient in varying temps
Bamboo (Lucky Bamboo)
Grows in water, doesn’t need soil, and loves steamy conditions.
Light: Low to medium
Water: Keep base submerged in water
Symbolic: Often used for good fortune
Orchids (Phalaenopsis)
With the right humidity and indirect light, these bloom beautifully.
Light: Bright, filtered light
Water: Water weekly, avoid overwatering
Elegant: Adds luxury to modern bathroom decor
Air Plants (Tillandsia)
No soil needed. Absorb moisture from the air—ideal for steamy showers.
Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Soak weekly or mist regularly
Easy to Style: Hang from glass globes or driftwood
Dracaena
Stylish and tolerant of varying light—great floor plant.
Light: Medium to low
Water: Let top inch dry out
Helps With: Air purifying house plants
Dieffenbachia
Large-leafed and eye-catching, but avoid if you have pets.
Light: Indirect, medium light
Water: Keep lightly moist
Good for: Corner bathroom plants decor
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Another solid pick for best indoor plants, especially in low-light conditions.
Light: Low to medium
Water: Moderate moisture, not soggy
Low-Maintenance: Great for beginners
Growing Plants Indoors: Setup Tips for Bathroom Success
To keep growing plants indoors in the bathroom simple and effective:
- Use pots with proper drainage (no terracotta in super humid rooms—it can mold).
- Group plants with similar care needs.
- Add a small fan if ventilation is poor—this prevents mold and keeps leaves dry.
Humidity is a plus, but poor airflow isn’t. Bathrooms with windows are best, but if natural light is lacking, try LED grow bulbs.
Decoration Ideas for Bathroom That Feel Intentional
A well-placed plant can elevate the space without cluttering it. Consider combining function and design by using:
- Over-the-toilet shelving with space for two or three plants
- Floating wall planters for trailing vines
- Groupings of small plants by the sink using trays
Neutral ceramic pots pair well with most modern bathroom decor, and adding varying heights can bring visual interest. Keep it balanced—plants should complement the space, not overwhelm it.
Best Plants for Apartments (Especially the Bathroom)
For renters or those with limited space, these best plants for apartments are low-fuss and fit easily into compact bathrooms:
- ZZ Plant
- Pothos
- Peace Lily
- Air Plants
- Cast Iron Plant
Each of these handles inconsistent light and fluctuating humidity well, making them ideal for apartment dwellers trying to bring nature indoors.
Build a Bathroom That Breathes
Adding greenery to the bathroom isn’t just about aesthetics—it helps improve air quality, reduce humidity, and boost mood. Whether it’s a sleek plant decor indoor setup or a more lush, tropical vibe, the right plants make a big difference.
FAQs
What plant is best for a bathroom?
Peace Lily is one of the best plants for a bathroom. It thrives in high humidity, tolerates low light, and helps purify the air. It’s also fairly easy to care for as long as the soil stays consistently moist.
What is the best plant to hang in the bathroom?
Spider Plant is an excellent hanging plant for bathrooms. It’s low-maintenance, grows well in indirect light, and its arching leaves look great in hanging baskets or wall planters. Plus, it produces baby offshoots that can be propagated.
What plant absorbs moisture in a bathroom?
Boston Fern is a top pick for moisture-absorbing bathroom plants. It loves humidity, helps regulate air moisture, and its full, feathery foliage adds a lush, natural touch to any bathroom space.
What is the best plant to put in the shower?
Air Plants (Tillandsia) are ideal for inside the shower. They don’t need soil, absorb water and nutrients through their leaves, and thrive in the steam and warmth from daily showers. Just make sure they get indirect light and occasional air drying.
With these options, it’s possible to design a space that’s low-maintenance and high-impact. Start small, observe what works, and build your way into a calm, living space that feels more like a spa than just another room.
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