The best way to bring some personality into your sometimes-sterile bathroom is to add a plant. It’s crucial to look for solutions that are most appropriate for the conditions found in many bathrooms, though, as not all plants will flourish inside.
Because the humidity from the shower and the frequently low or indirect light replicate the plant’s natural environment, many of the best bathroom plants are tropical. But when it comes to bathroom plants, you don’t have to stick with the tropical type.
There are a few plants that do well in bathrooms, whether you want to add some greenery to the shared family bathroom or liven up a little powder room. To find out what those possibilities are and how to keep your plants happy and healthy in their new home, we asked plant experts.
Succulents
Succulents like aloe vera and elephant bush are perfect additions to bathrooms due to their minimal care needs. These hardy plants can thrive with little water, making them ideal for bathrooms that are not used daily, such as a guest powder room. “Succulents are a great choice for bathrooms because they can be left alone for extended periods and still flourish,” says Fran Lauretta, owner of Creations by Fran Flowers & More.
Size: Up to 9 inches tall
Growing conditions: Full to partial sun, dry, well-draining soil; water weekly or when the soil is completely dry
Rabbit Foot Fern
Rabbit foot ferns are excellent bathroom plants, as they love the humidity often present in these spaces. Jeanne Ha, owner of Park Florist, suggests keeping a misting bottle handy to give them a refreshing spritz while brushing your teeth. These delicate ferns bring a soft, natural feel to your bathroom decor.
Size: Up to 3 feet tall by 3 feet wide
Growing conditions: Partial sun, loamy, moist soil
Paphiopedilums Orchids
Bathrooms with indirect sunlight provide the perfect environment for Paphiopedilums orchids. Known for their elegant and colorful blooms, these orchids are surprisingly low maintenance. “Water them once a week with an ice cube or two, depending on their size,” advises Lauretta.
Size: Up to 2 feet tall
Growing conditions: Medium, indirect light; chunky, well-draining soil
Spider Plants
Spider plants are an excellent choice for those seeking a fuss-free bathroom plant. Their cascading green leaves create a lush appearance, and they thrive in humid conditions. “Spider plants are great for bathrooms as they are low-maintenance and enjoy the moist air,” says Lauretta.
Size: Up to 18 inches tall by 2 feet wide
Growing conditions: Dappled sun to full shade; moist, well-draining soil
Lemon Button Fern
The lemon button fern is a hardy and fragrant addition to any bathroom. Its small, lush fronds thrive in dimly lit spaces with minimal upkeep. As an added bonus, it emits a light, lemony scent that refreshes your bathroom naturally.
Size: 1 foot tall by 1 foot wide
Growing conditions: Partial sun to full shade; loamy, well-draining soil
Painted Nettle
Add a vibrant touch to your bathroom with the painted nettle, known for its colorful green and red foliage. This adaptable plant thrives in various lighting conditions, making it a perfect fit for bathrooms. “Painted nettle is easy to care for and brings bold colors to your space,” says Ryan Woltz, CEO of ēdn.
Size: Up to 3 feet tall by 3 feet wide
Growing conditions: Full sun to full shade; well-draining soil
Pothos
Pothos is a resilient and visually appealing plant that brings life to your bathroom. This trailing vine can be styled around shower rods or mirrors for a tropical vibe. “Pothos is easy to care for and perfect for bathroom spaces,” says Blythe Yost, CEO of Tilly.
Size: 6 to 8 inches tall by 13 feet wide
Growing conditions: Full to partial shade; loamy, occasionally dry, well-draining soil
Boston Fern
Boston ferns bring a touch of elegance to bathrooms. Their lush, arching fronds are well-suited for humid spaces. “Styled in decorative pots, these ferns can transform your bathroom into a chic, green retreat,” says Ha.
Size: 2 to 3 feet tall by 2 to 3 feet wide
Growing conditions: Dappled sun to full shade; loamy, well-draining soil
Walking Iris
Walking irises are delightful plants that produce charming blooms. Their ability to propagate through baby plants makes them a great choice for bathrooms. “These plants thrive in moist soil and shady conditions,” says Yost.
Size: Up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide
Growing conditions: Partial to full shade; moist, well-draining soil
Bird Nest Ferns
Bird nest ferns are perfect for bathrooms with high humidity and low light. “While they require some natural light, they are a fantastic addition to spaces with indirect sunlight,” says Yost. Their wavy green leaves bring a tropical feel to your bathroom.
Size: 3 to 5 feet tall by 2 to 3 feet wide
Growing conditions: Dappled sun to partial shade; loamy, moist, well-draining soil
Foxtail Fern
Foxtail ferns, also known as asparagus ferns, add texture and greenery to bathrooms. “These plants love humidity and even produce delicate white flowers when thriving,” says Yost.
Size: Up to 18 inches tall by 18 inches wide
Growing conditions: Dappled sunlight to partial shade; moist, well-draining soil
Phalaenopsis Orchids
Phalaenopsis orchids are surprisingly low-maintenance and thrive on occasional watering. “Dunk them in the sink every couple of weeks and let the medium dry out between waterings,” says Yost. These orchids are a graceful addition to any bathroom.
Size: Flowers 3 to 6 inches wide
Growing conditions: Dappled sun to shade; water weekly
Tillandsia
Tillandsia, or air plants, are perfect for creative bathroom arrangements. They require no soil and can be displayed in various unique ways. “Just dunk them in water weekly to keep them healthy,” says Yost.
Size: 3 inches tall by 1 to 2 inches wide
Growing conditions: Indirect or partial sun; regular misting or dunking in water weekly
Majesty Palm
Majesty palms thrive in open, bright bathrooms with plenty of light. “The high humidity of bathrooms suits them well,” says Yost. Their tall stature makes them an impressive statement piece.
Size: Up to 10 feet tall by 6 to 20 feet wide
Growing conditions: Bright light; moist, well-draining soil
Maidenhair Fern
Maidenhair ferns bring a delicate charm to bathrooms. Their lace-like leaves thrive in indirect light and moist environments. “Ensure they stay hydrated to maintain their vibrant appearance,” says Ha.
Size: 1 to 2 feet tall by 1 to 2 feet wide
Growing conditions: Indirect, dappled light; occasionally wet, well-draining soil
Purple Oxalis
Purple oxalis, with its dark purple leaves, makes a bold statement in bathrooms. This shamrock family member thrives in low light. “Too much sun can fade its rich purple color,” warns Yost.
Size: Up to 18 inches tall by 2 feet wide
Growing conditions: Partial shade; dry to moist, well-draining soil
Kangaroo Paw Fern
Kangaroo paw ferns feature glossy, vibrant green leaves that brighten any bathroom. “They prefer humidity but dislike overly wet soil,” says Yost. Be cautious not to overwater this fern.
Size: 1 foot tall by 4 feet wide
Growing conditions: Bright to medium indirect light; well-draining soil
Snake Plant
Snake plants are hardy and thrive with minimal care, making them a favorite for bathrooms. “They can handle infrequent watering and adapt to various lighting conditions,” says Yost.
Size: 1 to 3 feet tall by 6 to 36 inches wide
Growing conditions: Partial shade; good-draining soil
Begonia
Begonias are perfect for bathrooms due to their love of humidity. Their vibrant foliage prefers indirect light. “Avoid placing them in direct sunlight to keep their leaves healthy,” advises Ha.
Size: 1 foot tall by 9 inches wide
Growing conditions: Shade to partial sunlight; moist, well-draining soil
Peace Lily
Peace lilies are elegant and low-maintenance plants. They tolerate lower light levels and high humidity, making them a great choice for bathrooms. “Their glossy leaves and occasional white blooms add a touch of sophistication,” says Ha.
Size: 1 foot tall by 1 foot wide
Growing conditions: Shade or partial light; moist, well-draining soil