Bathrooms might not seem like the ideal spot for houseplants—low light, high humidity, and temperature swings don’t sound like a recipe for success. But surprisingly, there are plants that absolutely thrive in these spa-like conditions. In fact, some houseplants prefer the bathroom to any other room in your home.
Thanks to the moist air from showers and baths, these plants can go longer without watering, and many of them love the indirect or filtered light that bathroom windows typically provide. If you’ve ever struggled to keep a plant alive on a sunny windowsill, you might find that moving it to the bathroom completely changes the game.
This list features 16 houseplants that not only tolerate the bathroom environment—they grow better in it. From trailing vines to bold leafy greens, these plants will turn your bathroom into a lush, tropical retreat, no matter the size or layout.
Pothos
If you’re looking for a plant that thrives on neglect, consider Pothos. Known for its trailing vines, this plant doesn’t shy away from steamy bathrooms. Its vibrant green leaves are not just pleasing to the eye; they’re also excellent at purifying the air.
What’s great about Pothos is its adaptability. It can survive low-light conditions, making it ideal for bathrooms without windows. Plus, it’s easy to propagate, allowing you to share its beauty with friends.
Interestingly, this plant is often considered a symbol of perseverance, thriving even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Spider Plant
The Spider Plant’s charm lies in its intricate web of leaves. Known for its air-purifying properties, it thrives in the humid bathroom atmosphere. Its ability to adapt makes it a favorite among plant enthusiasts.
In bathrooms with indirect sunlight, the Spider Plant grows like wildfire. It’s also pet-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about curious paws.
Did you know that the Spider Plant was a popular household plant during the Victorian era? Today, its classic appeal continues to grace many homes, especially bathrooms where it enjoys the humidity.
Boston Fern
With its bushy fronds, the Boston Fern is a bathroom staple. This plant adores humidity, making it perfect for steamy showers. Its lush foliage adds a touch of the tropics to any space.
While it prefers indirect light, it can adapt to lower light as long as there’s enough moisture in the air. Regular misting will keep its fronds vibrant and healthy.
Historically, Boston Ferns have been used since the 19th century to add greenery to indoor spaces. Their timeless beauty makes them a beloved choice for plant lovers everywhere.
Peace Lily
Peace Lilies bring serenity to any bathroom with their elegant white blooms. They thrive in the humid, low-light conditions often found in bathrooms.
Despite their delicate appearance, Peace Lilies are robust plants. They’re excellent at removing toxins from the air, making them both a beautiful and functional addition.
In the realm of symbolism, Peace Lilies are often associated with tranquility and purity. Their presence in a bathroom can add a sense of calm to your daily routine.
Snake Plant
The Snake Plant is known for its architectural shape and resilience. Ideal for bathrooms, it can withstand low light and humid conditions effortlessly.
This plant is a natural air purifier, combating toxins while requiring minimal care. Its striking leaves add a modern touch to any setting.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera, known for its healing properties, finds a happy home in bathroom environments. Its thick leaves store water, making it well-suited for humid spaces.
Not only is Aloe Vera a soothing remedy for skin issues, but its sculptural form adds visual interest. It’s a plant with purpose, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits.
Philodendron
Philodendrons are beloved for their heart-shaped leaves and easy-going nature. They adapt well to the varying light conditions in bathrooms.
These plants are fast growers, especially in humid environments. Their trailing vines can create a lush, green curtain, perfect for adding privacy or breaking up hard lines.
Bamboo
Lucky Bamboo is a symbol of prosperity and good fortune, thriving in water-filled vases. Its presence in bathrooms, with high humidity, mimics its natural habitat.
This plant requires minimal care, simply needing its water changed regularly. Its elegant, vertical growth adds a sense of tranquility and order to bathroom spaces.
Cast Iron Plant
True to its name, the Cast Iron Plant is almost indestructible. It thrives in low-light and humid conditions, making it an excellent choice for bathrooms.
Despite its tough nature, its broad leaves provide a gentle, calming aesthetic. This plant’s resilience is matched by its ability to enhance air quality.
Orchid
Orchids are the epitome of elegance, with blooms that can last for months. In bathrooms, their need for humidity and indirect light is perfectly met.
These plants add a touch of luxury, making everyday routines feel more indulgent. Their graceful forms are a testament to beauty and resilience.
ZZ Plant
The ZZ Plant is a study in simplicity and striking appearance. Its glossy leaves reflect light beautifully, making it ideal for bathrooms with limited natural light.
Renowned for its hardiness, this plant requires little attention to thrive. It’s a symbol of endurance, capable of flourishing where others might falter.
Bird’s Nest Fern
Bird’s Nest Fern stands out with its unique frond pattern. Its love for moisture makes it a perfect bathroom companion.
This fern’s vibrant green fronds emanate from a central rosette, adding a touch of the exotic. It’s a plant that thrives under minimal care, as long as there’s humidity.
Chinese Evergreen
The Chinese Evergreen is celebrated for its colorful foliage. Its adaptability to low light and high humidity makes it a bathroom favorite.
With minimal watering needs, it’s a low-maintenance beauty. Its presence can brighten dim corners, offering a splash of color where it’s least expected.
Maidenhair Fern
Maidenhair Fern captivates with its delicate, lacy fronds. It flourishes in humid environments, making it a natural fit for bathrooms.
While it prefers indirect light, its beauty is unmatched, offering a fine-textured contrast to harder surfaces. It’s a classic choice for those who appreciate fine details.
Jade Plant
Jade Plants are prized for their thick, succulent leaves. They store water, making them well-suited for the fluctuating humidity of bathrooms.
Their compact size and slow growth allow them to fit neatly on windowsills or shelves. Often associated with prosperity, Jade Plants can bring a sense of balance and positivity to any space.
Begonia
Begonias bring a pop of color with their patterned leaves and occasional blooms. In bathrooms, their need for humidity is met, and they thrive.
These plants offer diversity in leaf shape and color, enhancing visual interest. Whether in a pot or hanging planter, Begonias can transform a bathroom into a vibrant oasis.