35 Ideal Houseplants for Your Bathroom

Houseplants are a wonderful addition to any bathroom, offering both visual appeal and functional benefits by absorbing excess moisture. Bathrooms, with their warm temperatures and high humidity, create an ideal environment for plants that thrive in these conditions. Whether placed by the sink or in a hanging planter near a shower window, plants can soften the starkness of a bathroom and bring in a lively touch of greenery.

When selecting plants for your bathroom, consider three key factors: light availability, humidity levels, and temperature fluctuations. Opt for low-light species if your bathroom lacks direct sunlight, thriving on less than four hours of light daily. Plants that prefer indirect light can flourish near a window, while shade-loving varieties like ferns, air plants, and certain tropical species adapt well to low-light bathrooms.

Asparagus Fern

An airy, lacy asparagus fern loves the humidity of a bathroom. It does well in either moderate or bright light, so a spot by a window is best. Asparagus fern (Asparagus densiflorus) looks soft to the touch, but the stems have thorns, so beware. It can grow to two feet tall with branches that can sprawl laterally as much as six feet. This plant is highly toxic—keep it away from small children and pets.

• Color Varieties: Pale green foliage
• Sun Exposure: Bright artificial light or window sunlight
• Soil Needs: Well-drained potting soil
• Mature Size: Up to 3 ft. tall, 4 ft. wide

Lucky Bamboo

Lucky bamboo is a popular houseplant associated with bringing good luck to the home. Growing lucky bamboo (Bambusa spp.) in containers controls its size because it’s well-known as an invasive spreader when planted in the garden. But even when confined to containers, bamboo plants can become large, requiring repotting every year or so.

• Color Varieties: Pale to dark green foliage; variegated forms available
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Needs: Prefers sandy potting mixes but tolerates most potting soil mixes
• Mature Size: 1–5 ft. tall, 1–2 ft. wide (indoors)

Begonia

Many types of begonias grow well in containers, and they enjoy the warmth and humidity of a bathroom shelf. In particular, rex begonias (Begonia x rex), with their showy foliage, grow well indoors. Begonias like humid conditions but not water-logged soil, which can cause root rot. Begonias prized for their flowers need a bright spot in the bathroom with some direct early morning sunlight. Begonias grown for their foliage need a bright location away from direct sunlight.

• Color Varieties: Light-green, dark-green, bronze, or variegated foliage. Some varieties are grown for beautiful blooms while others are grown for their distinctive and unusual foliage.
• Sun Exposure: To encourage flowering, provide some direct sunlight; for varieties grown for their foliage, provide bright filtered light.
• Soil Needs: Begonias do best in general-purpose, soilless potting mix.
• Mature Size: 12-18 in. tall, similar spread

Bromeliads

Bromeliads are unusual specimens; they readily produce long-lasting blooms in locations where most houseplants do not blossom at all. Bromeliads flower with yellow, pink, or red blossoms in winter, and the blooms last for several weeks. Bromeliads include several different plant genera and dozens of species, many of which are epiphytic (drawing moisture from the air rather than from soil).

• Color Varieties: Dark green foliage and pink or red flowers
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light; avoid hot afternoon sun
• Soil Needs: Soil depends on genus and species; those requiring soil do well in a succulent potting mix.
• Mature Size: Varies by genera and species

Cast-Iron Plant

Aspidistra elatior is an excellent low-maintenance houseplant; it earned its common name, the cast-iron plant, because it is so hard to kill. A tropical plant growing two to three feet tall, this is one of the rare houseplants that will tolerate almost full shade. Variegated varieties need more light than solid-green specimens. It also does not require high humidity, making it good for guest bathrooms that aren’t used often.

• Color Varieties: Medium-green foliage; rarely flowers when grown as a houseplant
• Sun Exposure: Low, indirect light; tolerates full shade
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, peaty potting mix
• Mature Size: 2–3 ft. tall, 1–2 ft. wide

Chinese Evergreen

Few plants are as forgiving and adaptable as the Chinese evergreen, comprising about 20 species within the Aglaonema genus. These large-leaved, tropical perennials will thrive even if you forget to water and feed them. While they love humidity, they will also tolerate dry air, provided you keep them out of cold drafts, which can damage the leaves.

• Color Varieties: Dark green; some varieties are variegated
• Sun Exposure: Low, indirect light; no direct sun
• Soil Needs: Rich, well-drained potting mix
• Mature Size: 1–3 ft. tall, 1–3 ft. wide

Croton

You will find croton plants in an assortment of brightly colored foliage, and the pictum variety has multicolored leaves. These tropical broadleaf evergreens grow slowly, but they can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide, so be sure you give it enough room to spread out.

• Color Varieties: Green, or combinations of yellow, pink, orange, red, bronze, purple, and green
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-drained potting mix with humus
• Mature Size: 3–8 ft. tall, 3–6 ft. wide

Dieffenbachia

Dieffenbachia does best with minimal care. Water them when the soil feels dry (feel just a few inches below the surface). This plant requires more light during the short days of winter and dappled light in the summer. Rotate your dieffenbachia plant every month so it grows evenly on all sides. These plants can reach several feet tall.

• Color Varieties: Combinations of green and yellow/white foliage
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Loose, fast-draining potting mix
• Mature Size: 3–10 ft. tall, 2–3 ft. wide

 Ferns

Ferns are a unique family of shade-loving plants that reproduce through spores rather than flowers and seeds. Many ferns make great houseplants and can handle the temperature fluctuations and humidity in a bathroom environment. Some can even be grown right in a shower stall where they are regularly soaked. Some recommended ferns for the bathroom include Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata), maidenhair fern (Adiantum raddianum), bird’s nest fern (Asplenium nidus), and button fern (Pellaea rotundifolia).

• Color Varieties: Light to dark green, depending on species
• Sun Exposure: Depends on the species
• Soil Needs: Depends on species; most thrive in moist, well-drained potting mix
• Mature Size: Depends on variety, 6-48 in. tall, 1-5 ft. wide

Gardenia

The gardenias most often grown as indoor plants are G. jasminoides, also known as cape jasmine. These tropical broadleaf evergreens are not particularly easy to grow indoors because they respond poorly to cold drafts or sudden blasts of heat. However, they can grow well in the humid conditions of a bathroom, provided they receive enough bright light. Gardenias can be large plants, growing to 6 feet tall, but they may be kept smaller with frequent pruning. Feed with an acidic fertilizer.

• Color Varieties: Dark green leaves; white flowers
• Sun Exposure: Needs 6 to 8 hours of sunlight for flowering
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, acidic potting mix rich with peat moss
• Mature Size: 5-6 ft. tall, 5-6 ft. wide

Orchids

Orchids comprise hundreds of species in dozens of genera in the Orchidaceae family of plants. Many orchids are ideal for growing in bathrooms so long as do not get too cold. Some species are planted in soil, while others are epiphytes (air plants) that absorb moisture from the air. Orchids can bloom for weeks, and because some varieties are smallish plants, you can cluster several together for quite a show. Some prefer moderate light; others need bright light.

• Color Varieties: Pink, red, purple, white, depending on the variety
• Sun Exposure: Depends on variety but needs light for blooms
• Soil Needs: Depends on type, generally requires a bark mix designed for orchids
• Mature Size: 1–3 ft. tall, 6–12 in. wide

Peace Lily

Peace lilies are elegant plants that require minimal care. They do best with regular watering and appreciate the humidity in the bathroom. Do not allow the soil to remain dry for extended periods of time. Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum spp.) do well in limited light; however, if your plant is not flowering, it might need a slightly brighter location. When feeding, use a very diluted fertilizer mix.

• Color Varieties: Glossy green foliage; white flowers
• Sun Exposure: Bright, filtered light
• Soil Needs: Well-drained potting mix
• Mature Size: 1–4 ft. tall, 1–4 ft. wide (indoors), up to 6 ft. tall (outdoors)

Philodendron

Philodendrons are tropical plants that thrive in bathroom conditions. Some varieties produce vines as long as 20 feet, while other varieties grow upright. Philodendrons are quite forgiving; they enjoy the humidity of a bathroom and tolerate occasional missed waterings. Most do fine with limited light, but if your plant isn’t growing well, try moving it to a brighter location.

• Color Varieties: Green or reddish foliage
• Sun Exposure: Moderate, indirect light
• Soil Needs: General-purpose, soilless potting mix
• Mature Size: Varies by species

Pothos

Pothos, also known as devil’s ivy (Epipremnum aureum), is another tolerant houseplant that thrives in low light and neglect. It grows best in bright, indirect light but will also survive in low light conditions, making it perfect for a bathroom. This plant grows long, trailing vines that can reach up to 10 feet or more, perfect for hanging baskets or letting it trail down a shelf. Pothos can be easily propagated from cuttings to create new plants.

• Color Varieties: Green, variegated with white or yellow
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light but tolerates low light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining potting mix
• Mature Size: 6-10 ft. long (indoors), up to 40 ft. long (outdoors in tropical climates)

 Spider Plant

Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are popular houseplants known for their arching, grassy leaves and small white flowers that grow on long stems. They are easy to grow, tolerate a wide range of conditions, and thrive in the humidity of a bathroom. They produce offshoots or “spiderettes” that can be easily propagated. Spider plants prefer bright, indirect light but can also grow in lower light conditions.

• Color Varieties: Green with white or yellow variegation
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light but tolerates low light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining potting mix
• Mature Size: 1-2 ft. tall and wide

 Snake Plant

Snake plants (Sansevieria trifasciata), also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, are one of the easiest houseplants to care for. They thrive in low light, need infrequent watering, and can handle a range of temperatures. Their tall, upright leaves add architectural interest to any space, including a bathroom. Snake plants are also known for their air-purifying qualities.

• Color Varieties: Green with yellow or white edges
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light to low light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining potting mix
• Mature Size: 1-4 ft. tall, 6 in. to 2 ft. wide

 ZZ Plant

The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is another low-maintenance houseplant that thrives in low light and can tolerate periods of neglect. Its glossy, dark green leaves make it a striking addition to a bathroom. ZZ plants prefer well-draining soil and should be allowed to dry out between waterings. They can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide.

• Color Varieties: Dark green foliage
• Sun Exposure: Low to bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining potting mix
• Mature Size: 2-3 ft. tall and wide

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a succulent known for its medicinal properties. It thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers to dry out completely between waterings. Aloe vera’s spiky, fleshy leaves make it a unique addition to a bathroom. It is best suited for a spot near a window where it can receive plenty of light.

• Color Varieties: Green with white spots
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy potting mix
• Mature Size: 1-2 ft. tall and wide

Boston Fern

Boston ferns (Nephrolepis exaltata) are classic houseplants known for their lush, feathery fronds. They thrive in high humidity, making them perfect for bathrooms. Boston ferns prefer bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil. They are often grown in hanging baskets or placed on pedestals to show off their cascading fronds.

• Color Varieties: Green foliage
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining, peat-based potting mix
• Mature Size: 1-3 ft. tall and wide

Bird’s Nest Fern

Bird’s nest ferns (Asplenium nidus) are unique houseplants with wide, wavy fronds that resemble a bird’s nest. They thrive in the high humidity of a bathroom and prefer low to moderate indirect light. Bird’s nest ferns should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. They make a striking addition to any bathroom with their unusual foliage.

• Color Varieties: Green foliage
• Sun Exposure: Low to moderate, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining, peat-based potting mix
• Mature Size: 1-2 ft. tall and wide

Bamboo Palm

Bamboo palms (Chamaedorea seifrizii) are elegant houseplants with tall, slender stalks and feathery fronds. They thrive in low to moderate light and high humidity, making them perfect for bathrooms. Bamboo palms prefer consistently moist soil but should not be waterlogged. They can grow up to 8 feet tall, adding a touch of tropical elegance to any bathroom.

• Color Varieties: Green foliage
• Sun Exposure: Low to moderate, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining potting mix
• Mature Size: 4-8 ft. tall, 2-4 ft. wide

Dracaena

Dracaena plants are popular houseplants known for their striking foliage and easy care. They thrive in low to moderate light and prefer to dry out between waterings. Dracaena plants can grow quite tall, making them a great choice for adding height to a bathroom. They come in various species, including Dracaena marginata and Dracaena fragrans.

• Color Varieties: Green with yellow or white variegation
• Sun Exposure: Low to moderate, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining potting mix
• Mature Size: 2-10 ft. tall, 1-3 ft. wide

Fiddle Leaf Fig

Fiddle leaf figs (Ficus lyrata) are trendy houseplants known for their large, glossy leaves. They thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer to dry out slightly between waterings. Fiddle leaf figs can grow quite large, making them a statement piece in any bathroom. They require occasional dusting to keep their leaves clean and shiny.

• Color Varieties: Green foliage
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining potting mix
• Mature Size: 6-10 ft. tall, 2-3 ft. wide

Parlor Palm

Parlor palms (Chamaedorea elegans) are classic houseplants known for their delicate, feathery fronds. They thrive in low to moderate light and high humidity, making them perfect for bathrooms. Parlor palms prefer consistently moist soil but should not be waterlogged. They are relatively slow-growing and can reach up to 4 feet tall.

• Color Varieties: Green foliage
• Sun Exposure: Low to moderate, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining potting mix
• Mature Size: 2-4 ft. tall, 1-2 ft. wide

Rubber Plant

Rubber plants (Ficus elastica) are popular houseplants known for their large, glossy leaves and easy care. They thrive in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels. Rubber plants prefer to dry out slightly between waterings. They can grow quite tall, making them a great choice for adding height to a bathroom.

• Color Varieties: Green with reddish-brown or variegated leaves
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light to low light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining potting mix
• Mature Size: 6-10 ft. tall, 2-4 ft. wide

Maidenhair Fern

Maidenhair ferns (Adiantum raddianum) are delicate houseplants with lacy, bright green fronds. They thrive in high humidity, making them perfect for bathrooms. Maidenhair ferns prefer bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil. They can be a bit finicky but are well worth the effort for their beautiful foliage.

• Color Varieties: Green foliage
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining, peat-based potting mix
• Mature Size: 1-2 ft. tall and wide

English Ivy

English ivy (Hedera helix) is a versatile houseplant that can be grown in pots, hanging baskets, or as a trailing plant. It thrives in the high humidity of a bathroom and prefers bright, indirect light. English ivy should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is easy to propagate from cuttings.

• Color Varieties: Green or variegated foliage
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining potting mix
• Mature Size: 6-12 in. tall, trailing up to 10 ft. long

Calathea

Calatheas are tropical houseplants known for their striking, patterned foliage. They thrive in high humidity and prefer bright, indirect light. Calatheas should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. They come in various species, each with unique leaf patterns and colors.

• Color Varieties: Green with white, pink, or purple patterns
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining, peat-based potting mix
• Mature Size: 1-2 ft. tall and wide

Fittonia

Fittonia, also known as nerve plant, is a small houseplant with striking, veined leaves. It thrives in high humidity and prefers bright, indirect light. Fittonia should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is a low-growing plant, making it perfect for terrariums or as a ground cover in larger pots.

• Color Varieties: Green with white, pink, or red veins
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining, peat-based potting mix
• Mature Size: 3-6 in. tall, 6-12 in. wide

Anthurium

Anthuriums are tropical houseplants known for their glossy, heart-shaped leaves and bright, long-lasting flowers. They thrive in high humidity and prefer bright, indirect light. Anthuriums should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. They can add a splash of color to any bathroom with their red, pink, or white flowers.

• Color Varieties: Green foliage with red, pink, or white flowers
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining, peat-based potting mix
• Mature Size: 1-2 ft. tall and wide

African Violet

African violets (Saintpaulia spp.) are popular houseplants known for their beautiful, velvety leaves and bright flowers. They thrive in high humidity and prefer bright, indirect light. African violets should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. They come in various colors, including purple, pink, white, and blue.

• Color Varieties: Green foliage with purple, pink, white, or blue flowers
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining, peat-based potting mix
• Mature Size: 6-12 in. tall and wide

Swiss Cheese Plant

The Swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) is a popular houseplant known for its large, perforated leaves. It thrives in high humidity and prefers bright, indirect light. Swiss cheese plants should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. They can grow quite large, making them a great choice for adding a tropical touch to a bathroom.

• Color Varieties: Green foliage
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining potting mix
• Mature Size: 3-10 ft. tall, 2-3 ft. wide

Air Plants

Air plants (Tillandsia spp.) are unique houseplants that do not require soil to grow. They thrive in high humidity and prefer bright, indirect light. Air plants should be soaked in water for a few hours every week and allowed to dry completely before being returned to their display. They come in various shapes and sizes, making them perfect for creative displays in a bathroom.

• Color Varieties: Green, silver, or red foliage
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: None
• Mature Size: Varies by species

Chinese Money Plant

The Chinese money plant (Pilea peperomioides) is a popular houseplant known for its round, coin-shaped leaves. It thrives in high humidity and prefers bright, indirect light. Chinese money plants should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. They are easy to propagate from offshoots and make a charming addition to any bathroom.

• Color Varieties: Green foliage
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining potting mix
• Mature Size: 6-12 in. tall and wide

Alocasia

Alocasia plants are tropical houseplants known for their large, arrow-shaped leaves. They thrive in high humidity and prefer bright, indirect light. Alocasias should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. They come in various species, each with unique leaf patterns and colors.

• Color Varieties: Green with white, pink, or purple patterns
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Needs: Well-draining, peat-based potting mix
• Mature Size: 1-3 ft. tall and wide