Bland to Botanical: 20 Bathroom-Friendly Plants & Styling Tips
Craving a bathroom that's more ‘spa retreat’ than ‘sterile box’? Infuse some green into your space! Indoor plants thrive in the steamy haven of your bathroom, instantly adding life and tranquillity — but navigating plant choices and styling in a humid space can be tricky.
Fear not, plant lovers! This guide is your roadmap to a flourishing bathroom jungle. We'll show you how to choose the perfect plant pals for your space, share some styling tips that'll make your bathroom the envy of your friends and help you create a relaxing oasis you'll love stepping into every day. So, ditch the tired decor and let's get growing!
The best plants for your bathroom
- Pothos
- Peace lily
- Eucalyptus
- Fiddle leaf fig
- Spider plant
- Monstera
- Umbrella tree
- Snake plant
- Succulents
- Zanzibar/ZZ plant
- Ficus
- Rhipsalis/mistletoe cactus
- Orchid
- Bird's nest fern
- Philodendron
- Daffodils
- Palms
- Calathea
- Fittonia vine/Nerve plant
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String of pearls
1. Pothos
Also known as devil’s ivy, Pothos can be identified by its marbled, heart-shaped leaves. This plant is popular for a reason — it’s relatively low maintenance and can survive even the most neglectful waterer. To make the most of this plant, raise it in a hanging pot so it can trail over the edges of its pot. These bathroom plants tolerate low light conditions, so near a window is perfect!
2. Peace lily
Peace lilies are an especially great plant for bathrooms because they love the humidity you can't usually get indoors. With shower steam, they basically water themselves (most of the time). Just stick your finger in the soil occasionally — dry means it's go-time with the watering can.
3. Eucalyptus
Koalas love it, and so do we. This Australian classic thrives in the bathroom's steam, releasing its spa scent with every hot shower. Breathe deep, decongest those sinuses and enjoy a touch of aromatherapy in your bathroom.
4. Fiddle leaf fig
For a big bathroom where you want to make a statement, a fiddle leaf fig is a great addition. Fiddle leaf figs need consistent, bright light (and not to be moved from it; they hate that!) and warm, wet environments like the bathroom.
5. Spider plant
The spider plant is one of the most adaptable houseplants and super simple to grow, making it a top pick for a newbie. This eye-catching plant will grow in a wide range of conditions and is genuinely hard to kill. It gets its name from the new growth — spiderettes — that dangle down from the plant like spiders.
6. Monstera
With its iconic leaves, the monstera plant has been a crowd favourite for years! It can thrive in many different environments, including your bathroom. Monsteras love direct sunlight and shower steam, turning your bathroom into their own personal rainforest. This plant will want to climb, so as it gets bigger, you may need to get a pole for the aerial roots to grab onto.
7. Umbrella tree
Umbrella trees are the ultimate rulebreakers for the bathroom. Sure, they'd love a permanent spot in the garden, but they can handle the steamy humidity of a bathroom, too. They add a jungle feel to your bathroom and are surprisingly low-maintenance when it comes to watering.
8. Snake plant
Snake plants in the bathroom? These plants could survive the apocalypse (and anything else you throw at them). Low light? No problem. Shower steam? They’ll soak it right up. This is the ultimate ‘set and forget’ house plant — all you have to do is stand back and let its beautiful leaves grace your bathroom.
9. Succulents
Contrary to popular belief, succulents can survive (and thrive) in your bathroom — the key is finding a ventilated spot near a window or by the entrance. These drought-loving bathroom plants adore the occasional steam session, but constant moisture is a no-go. Water them every few weeks — they'd much rather be underwatered than soggy!
10. Zanzibar/ZZ plant
Known as the plant that thrives on neglect, this almost indestructible plant will put up with an amazing amount of inattention — so much so it only needs to be watered four times a year. Zanzibar boasts elegant oval leaves that will grace your bathroom for many years.
11. Ficus
Love a steamy shower? Your ficus does too! These lush plants thrive in humidity and can even handle the dim bathroom light. Plus, they're low-key on the watering front. Win-win for a pop of greenery in your bathroom — just pick a petite one if your bathroom's on the smaller side.
12. Rhipsalis/mistletoe cactus
We’re obsessed with rhipsalis for bathrooms! This cascading plant thrives in a windowed bathroom's bright, indirect light. Plus, it's very low-maintenance — keep the soil moist (but not wet) with the occasional watering or steam session. Lush greenery without the drama!
13. Orchid
A lover of medium, indirect light, orchids love a high-humidity environment, so they do well in a bathroom with only a little natural light. Sit one on your vanity for a touch of elegance, or group a few together in a rustic container. Keep the roots damp but not wet.
14. Bird's nest fern
Ferns are an excellent option for your bathroom, especially varieties like the bird's nest fern. This particular plant does better in low-light environments, so if you want to brighten up a dimmer bathroom with a little greenery, this is your guy. It's forgiving and can handle lower moisture levels, but will do much better in a warm, humid environment.
15. Philodendron
Philodendron is a South American native that doesn't require much light to thrive. It likes its soil to be kept damp, and while it will tolerate dry conditions, it loves humidity — the perfect plant to keep in a low-light bathroom. Best of all, you can train it to happily vine along a windowsill or shelf.
16. Daffodils
Daffodils in the bathroom? Totally unexpected but genius! These cheerful blooms love the steamy moisture from the air and don't mind a little dimmer lighting. Plus, who needs a spa day when you've got sunshine in a vase? Just swap the water every few days to keep them bright and beautiful.
17. Palms
Palms are having a major moment in bathrooms, and for good reason! Palms are native to tropical regions and thrive in shade and high-moisture environments. But the benefits go beyond aesthetics — some palms act as natural air purifiers, helping to remove mould in your bathroom!
18. Calathea
Calatheas add a touch of sophisticated greenery to bathrooms. Their rainforest roots crave moisture in the air, and steamy showers help keep their leaves lush and prevent them from crisping up. They also appreciate subdued lighting, making them a perfect fit for your bathroom.
19. Fittonia vine/Nerve plant
Fittonia vines are undeniably cute — their intricate veins create stunning, mosaic-like patterns on vibrant dark green leaves. They prefer a brighter window but can adjust to softer lighting, too. But beware — while they love humidity, these drama queens can wilt if overwatered. With a little extra TLC on watering, they'll look stunning in your bathroom.
20. String of pearls
Level up your bathroom glam with a string of pearls! These cascading plants are the ultimate low-maintenance companions — they thrive in humidity. Just give them some bright, indirect sunlight (think mornings by the window) and let their soil breathe between drinks. Easy care, stunning results? Sign us up!
How to style your bathroom plants
Form or function? In the bathroom, it's both! While picking your favourite plants is a great start, true bathroom bliss comes from maximising their impact. We'll explore light needs, clever placement tricks and stylish planters that elevate your bathroom plants and decor.
Look up
Think beyond the countertop! Hanging plants like spider plants or string of pearls add a nice touch when placed in macrame planters or terrariums. Floating shelves also offer the perfect platform to showcase a collection of succulents or air plants in quirky pots.
Create harmony
This is where your unique style comes into play. Consider the existing elements — are your tiles eclectic? Are your walls painted white? Let your plant choices complement your decor — a bathroom comes alive with playful flowers and tropical plants throughout. Don't be afraid to let your plant choices echo the colours and textures in your bathroom, creating a cohesive and stylish space.
Be practical
Light is the lifeblood of your botanical friends. Position light-loving bathroom plants like figs or nerve plants near a bright window, where they can bask in direct light from the sun's rays. For orchids and ferns that prefer softer light, find a spot further from the window, such as next to the sink, where they can enjoy indirect light.
Play with pots
The pot is the finishing touch for your bathroom plant masterpiece! Consider how it complements your decor. Classic white or black ceramic offers timeless elegance in a modern bathroom. Metallics or textured pots add a touch of luxury, while woven baskets have a natural, bohemian vibe. Remember, the pot should enhance both the plant and your bathroom's features.
Mix and match
Don't be afraid to experiment. Create visual interest by pairing plants with contrasting textures. Imagine the smooth, sharp leaves of a snake plant juxtaposed with the feathery fronds of a fern. Introduce pops of colour with daffodils or the variegated leaves of a devil’s ivy for a touch of vibrancy.
Styling beyond plants
Inspired to up the spa feel of your bathroom beyond just plants? Explore our stunning tile collections — the perfect backdrop for a flourishing indoor jungle. Browse our selection and discover tiles that complement your favourite plants and personal style, creating a truly immersive and cohesive environment.
Or, if you’re looking to give your bathroom a facelift without any renovations, see our bathroom essentials checklist!
Bathroom plant FAQs
How do I take care of my bathroom plants?
While your bathroom's natural steam is a gift to most plants, remember every guest deserves a personalised spa experience. Some, like ferns, love constant moisture, while others, like succulents, prefer their soil to dry out between waterings. Do a quick web search for your specific plant's needs to keep them thriving in your bathroom oasis!
Are there any poisonous plants I should avoid?
Safety first, especially with little ones and pets! Snake lilies, philodendrons and dieffenbachia are all popular houseplants that can be toxic if ingested. Do some research before bringing a new plant home.
Do I need to fertilise as often in the bathroom?
Probably not! The slower growth due to lower light often means less fertiliser is needed. A light feeding a few times a year is usually enough.
Should I use pots with drainage in the bathroom?
Tread carefully! Drainage holes are great for healthy plants but not so great for timber or paint! Use a waterproof outer pot or place a tray under the decorative one to catch excess water where the surface isn’t as durable as tile.
My bathroom plant is dying. Help!
Droopy leaves, yellowing foliage and stunted growth are all signs your plant might not be loving its environment. Check the light and soil and maybe give it a gentle talking to (just kidding… kind of).
Are there any low-maintenance options for bathrooms?
Absolutely! Snake plants, ZZ plants and pothos are all known for their resilience and ability to thrive with minimal care.
Courtney Cole
As an interior designer at TileCloud, Courtney brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the world of home renovation. With a Diploma in Interior Design and Decoration and a passion for creating stunning interiors, shes dedicated to helping people on their journey to transform their homes. Currently channeling her expertise into renovating her own home, she aims to share valuable insights, tips, and inspiration to assist others in achieving their dream space!