There’s something special about having greenery in your bathroom. The bathroom might seem like a weird place for plants at first, but hear me out. With that extra humidity and (hopefully) some natural light from a window, you’ve actually got a mini-greenhouse on your hands!
I’ve killed more than my fair share of bathroom plants over the years. Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way which ones actually thrive in these conditions and which ones just slowly wither away while silently judging your shower singing.
The thing is, not all bathrooms are created equal. Some have huge windows with bright light streaming in while others have tiny frosted panes that barely qualify as windows. Your bathroom’s specific conditions will play a big part in which plants will be happiest there.
So, I’m going to help you find the 15 best plants that will not only survive but actually thrive in your bathroom with windows. I’ll cover everything from care tips to common issues, plus some unexpected benefits these plants can bring to your daily routine.
The 15 Best Plants for Bathrooms with Windows
1. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
If you’re looking for that classic spa vibe Boston ferns are your go-to. These fluffy beauties absolutely LOVE the steam from your shower.
Boston ferns thrive in high humidity (70% or higher is perfect) and indirect light, making them perfect for bathrooms with north or east-facing windows. They don’t need direct sunlight – in fact it can burn their delicate fronds.
Water your Boston fern when the top inch of soil feels dry. In the bathroom this might mean less frequent watering than other parts of your home since the ambient humidity helps keep them happy.
One thing I learned the hard way: these plants are drama queens about consistent care. I once went on vacation for a week and came back to a crispy fern that took months to recover. Consider setting up a small pebble tray with water underneath to boost humidity if your bathroom gets dry.
2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace lilies are like the perfect roommate – gorgeous, low-maintenance and they clean up after themselves (well, sort of – they’re excellent air purifiers).
These elegant plants do well in medium to low light conditions. This makes them perfect for bathrooms that don’t get tons of direct sunlight. The glossy dark green leaves and occasional white “flowers” (actually modified leaves called spathes) add a touch of class to any bathroom.
I water mine when they start to droop slightly – peace lilies are one of the few plants that will dramatically let you know when they’re thirsty without suffering permanent damage. Just don’t let them stay droopy for too long.
The soil should be kept consistently moist but not soggy. I use a well-draining potting mix and make sure the pot has drainage holes. Fun fact: peace lilies are on NASA’s list of top air-purifying plants, so they’re actively cleaning your bathroom air while looking pretty.
3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are practically indestructible making them perfect for beginners or forgetful plant parents.
These plants have long, arching variegated leaves and produce little “babies” (plantlets) on long stems. They prefer bright, indirect light but will tolerate lower light conditions, so they’re adaptable to most bathroom windows.
Water them when the top inch of soil is dry which might be less often in a humid bathroom environment. Spider plants aren’t particularly fussy about soil but I use a standard potting mix with good drainage.
I’ve had my spider plant for over five years now and it’s survived multiple moves, occasional neglect and even a brief period where my cat decided its leaves were salad. They’re remarkably resilient and will forgive almost any mistake.
4. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Also called mother-in-law’s tongue (no comment on that name!), snake plants are practically unkillable and perfect for low light bathrooms.
Their tall leaves come in various patterns of green and yellow and grow upright which makes them perfect for narrow spaces or bathroom corners. They can tolerate low light conditions but will grow faster with more light.
The best thing about snake plants? They’re extremely drought-tolerant. Water them only when the soil is completely dry – in a bathroom this might mean once every 2-3 weeks. Overwatering is the only reliable way to kill them, so err on the side of neglect.
I have one in my guest bathroom that I honestly sometimes forget exists for weeks. Even with that neglect it’s still thriving. Plus, snake plants are excellent air purifiers and one of the few plants that convert CO2 to oxygen at night, making them great bedroom companions too.
5. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos are the ultimate bathroom vine with their trailing stems that can grow several feet long.
Available in golden, marble queen, neon and other varieties, these adaptable plants thrive in medium to low light conditions. The vines look great draped over a shower rod or hanging from a high shelf.
Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Pothos are very forgiving if you forget to water them occasionally. They’ll actually let you know by getting slightly droopy leaves but they bounce back quickly.
I’ve propagated dozens of pothos plants from my original one – just cut a section of vine with a few leaves, stick it in water, wait for roots to form, and plant. It’s almost too easy to expand your collection.
6. Aloe Vera
Aloe isn’t just pretty – it’s practical too. This succulent has thick, gel-filled leaves that are famous for their soothing properties.
Aloe vera needs bright indirect light, so it works best in bathrooms with larger, south or west-facing windows. Unlike many bathroom plants aloe prefers to dry out completely between waterings. In a humid bathroom you might only need to water it once every 3-4 weeks.
Use a well-draining cactus or succulent soil mix to prevent root rot. I keep mine in a terracotta pot which helps excess moisture evaporate.
The best part? If you get a sunburn or minor kitchen burn you can break off a small piece of leaf and use the gel directly on your skin. Definitely a plant that earns its keep.
7. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese evergreens are some of the most colorful plants you can grow in lower light conditions.
These beautiful plants have patterned leaves in shades of green, silver, red and pink, depending on the variety. They tolerate low to medium light and are perfect for bathrooms with small or frosted windows.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry and reduce watering in winter. They enjoy humidity but don’t require as much as ferns do, making them adaptable to most bathroom conditions.
I’ve had my silver bay aglaonema for three years and it’s one of my least demanding plants. It just steadily produces new leaves without any fuss or drama.
8. Orchids (Phalaenopsis)
I know what you’re thinking – aren’t orchids super difficult? Not bathroom orchids! Phalaenopsis orchids actually love bathroom conditions.
These elegant flowering plants thrive in the humid, bright, indirect light that many bathrooms provide. They prefer temperatures between 65-80°F, which is typically bathroom range.
Rather than growing in soil, orchids need a special orchid mix or sphagnum moss. Water by soaking the pot for 15 minutes once weekly, then allowing it to drain completely.
I had a bathroom orchid that rebloomed three times in two years, which I considered a massive success. The key is placing it near (but not directly in) a window and letting it enjoy the shower steam.
9. Air Plants (Tillandsia)
Talk about low-maintenance – air plants don’t even need soil!
These quirky little plants absorb water and nutrients through their leaves rather than roots. They come in many shapes and sizes, from tiny bulbous forms to larger sculptural varieties.
The bathroom is perfect for air plants because they love humidity. Place them near (but not in) a window for bright, indirect light. To water them, mist heavily 2-3 times a week or soak them in water for 20-30 minutes once a week, then shake off excess water and let them dry completely.
10. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Despite its name lucky bamboo isn’t actually bamboo at all – it’s a type of Dracaena.
This popular plant can grow in water alone (with some pebbles for support) or in soil. Its straight or curled stems can be arranged in various decorative patterns and are said to bring good fortune.
Lucky bamboo prefers indirect light and consistently moist conditions, making the bathroom ideal. If growing in water change it every 2-3 weeks to prevent algae buildup.
I’ve had the same lucky bamboo arrangement for nearly four years and it’s been one of my most reliable plants. It just steadily produces new leaves at the top while maintaining its interesting stem formations.
11. Fittonia (Nerve Plant)
With its striking veined leaves fittonia adds a pop of pattern to any bathroom.
These compact plants have green leaves with contrasting white, pink, or red veins. They prefer medium to low light and high humidity making them great bathroom companions.
Fittonias are dramatic about watering – they’ll completely collapse if allowed to dry out. But they usually recover quickly once watered. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
I’ve found that fittonias are perfect for terrariums or bathroom counter displays. Their small size (usually under 12 inches) makes them ideal for limited spaces.
12. Begonia
Rex begonias are the show-stoppers of the bathroom plant world with their colorful, textured leaves.
These plants have stunning foliage in combinations of green, silver, red, pink and purple. They prefer bright, indirect light and high humidity, so bathrooms with east or west-facing windows are ideal.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry and avoid getting water on the leaves, which can lead to powdery mildew. I use room temperature water and water from below when possible.
While they can be a bit pickier than some other bathroom plants their incredible appearance makes them worth the extra attention.
13. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English ivy’s trailing vines create a classic, elegant look in any bathroom.
This versatile climber can be grown in hanging baskets, trained up trellises, or allowed to cascade down from high shelves. It prefers medium light and consistent humidity.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry and mist occasionally if your bathroom runs dry. English ivy appreciates good air circulation to prevent spider mites, its main pest problem.
14. Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)
If you love the look of ferns but find Boston ferns too demanding, bird’s nest ferns are a more forgiving alternative.
These attractive ferns have broad, rippled fronds that emerge from a central rosette, resembling a bird’s nest. They prefer medium to low light and high humidity.
Water when the soil surface begins to dry and avoid getting water in the central “nest,” which can lead to rot. Unlike some ferns, they don’t need to be constantly moist.
I’ve had much better luck with bird’s nest ferns than with maidenhair or other delicate ferns. They seem to be more tolerant of occasional dry spells and temperature fluctuations.
15. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Last but certainly not least the ZZ plant is possibly the most forgiving bathroom plant on this list.
With its glossy, dark green leaves and architectural growth habit, the ZZ plant adds a modern touch to any bathroom. It can tolerate very low light conditions, though it grows faster with more light.
Water only when the soil is completely dry – in a bathroom, this might mean once a month or even less frequently. ZZ plants store water in their thick stems and bulbous roots, making them extremely drought-tolerant.
I’ve had mine for years in a corner that barely gets any light and it still puts out new growth regularly. If you’re worried about overwatering this is the plant for you.
Common Challenges (And How to Handle Them)
Even with the right plants bathroom gardening comes with its own unique set of challenges. Here’s how to handle the most common issues:
Inconsistent Humidity
Problem: Your bathroom might be humid right after showers but dry the rest of the time.
Solution: Group plants together to create a microclimate, use pebble trays filled with water beneath pots (keeping the pot above the water level), or consider a small humidifier for your bathroom plants if you live in a particularly dry climate.
Limited Light
Problem: Many bathrooms have small windows or frosted glass that reduces light.
Solution: Rotate plants regularly so all sides get light exposure, consider installing full-spectrum LED grow lights (they’re quite affordable now), or simply choose plants from the list that tolerate lower light conditions (like snake plants, ZZ plants, and pothos).
I installed a small LED grow light strip under my bathroom cabinet that runs on a timer – it’s been a game changer for my plants in the darker winter months.
Temperature Fluctuations
Problem: Bathroom temperatures can swing from hot and steamy to cool overnight.
Solution: Avoid placing sensitive plants directly next to windows that might get cold or in the path of heating/cooling vents. Most of the plants on this list can handle normal bathroom temperature fluctuations, but extreme swings (below 55°F or above 85°F) should be avoided.
Mold and Mildew
Problem: The same conditions that plants love can promote mold growth.
Solution: Ensure good air circulation with a small fan or by opening the door/window regularly. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves promptly. Consider adding activated charcoal to the bottom of pots or as a top dressing to reduce mold.
I had an issue with mold on my potting soil in the bathroom, but adding a thin layer of decorative aquarium gravel on top of the soil solved the problem while also looking attractive.
Tips for Keeping Bathroom Plants Healthy
Now that we’ve covered the challenges here are some proactive tips to keep your bathroom jungle thriving:
- Clean plant leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and bathroom product residue, which can block light absorption.
- Use bathroom-friendly fertilizers – I recommend diluted liquid fertilizer at half the recommended strength during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Consider the water you use – some plants are sensitive to chlorine and other chemicals in tap water. If your plants seem unhappy, try letting water sit out overnight before using it or use filtered water.
- Rotate plants quarterly to ensure even growth, especially if your bathroom window only provides light from one direction.
- Repot bathroom plants every 1-2 years with fresh soil to replenish nutrients and prevent root binding.
I’ve found that checking on my bathroom plants while brushing my teeth is a great way to incorporate plant care into my daily routine. Just a quick look each day helps me catch any issues before they become major problems.
FAQ
Can I put plants in a bathroom with no windows?
Yes, but you’ll need to provide artificial light and be more selective with plant choices. ZZ plants, snake plants, and pothos can survive with just artificial bathroom lighting. For other plants, install a full-spectrum grow light on a timer for 8-10 hours daily.
How often should I water bathroom plants?
It varies by plant and conditions, but generally less frequently than the same plants elsewhere in your home. The higher humidity means slower evaporation. Always check the top inch of soil – if it’s still moist, wait a few more days before watering.
Will plants help reduce bathroom humidity problems?
Somewhat, but don’t expect miracles. Plants do absorb some moisture from the air, but not enough to fix a serious ventilation issue. They can help moderate humidity levels slightly, but you’ll still need proper ventilation to prevent mold and mildew problems.
Can bathroom plants survive with just artificial light?
Some can! Plants like ZZ plants, snake plants, and pothos can survive with just the ambient artificial light from bathroom fixtures if they’re on regularly. For most other plants, you’ll want to supplement with a grow light or rotate them to brighter locations occasionally.
Are bathroom plants safe around children and pets?
Not all of them. Peace lilies, pothos, and English ivy are toxic if ingested. If you have curious pets or small children, stick to pet-safe options like spider plants, Boston ferns, and air plants, or place toxic plants on high shelves out of reach.
Final Thoughts
Bringing plants into your bathroom transforms an otherwise utilitarian space into something special. There’s something about brushing your teeth surrounded by lush greenery, especially when you know those plants are hard at work cleaning the air and adding oxygen to your environment.
I started with just one small pothos in my bathroom corner and now I have a collection that makes every shower feel like a mini tropical getaway.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different plants to find what works best in your specific bathroom conditions. Plants are more resilient than we often give them credit for and even if you lose one along the way (we’ve all been there), the ones that thrive will more than make up for it.