Plant Care

Best Plants for Bathroom: 12 Humidity-Loving Houseplants That Thrive Your bathroom might be the most underrated room in your home for growing houseplants. The steam from hot showers, the consistent warmth, and the moisture-rich air create conditions that many tropical plants absolutely love. Whether you have a spa-like bathroom with a skylight or a small windowless powder room, there's a plant for it. Here at Divine Roots Botanicals, we've tested dozens of species in bathroom conditions — these are the 12 that thrive best. Why Bathrooms Are Great for Plants Most houseplants originate from tropical regions where humidity regularly exceeds 60%. In a typical home, humidity hovers around 30–50%, which is lower than many plants prefer. Bathrooms naturally solve this problem: Higher humidity: Hot showers push bathroom humidity to 70–90%, then it settles back to 50–60% — right in the sweet spot for tropical plants. Consistent warmth: Bathrooms rarely get cold drafts (no exterior doors opening constantly). Filtered light: Frosted windows and shower glass diffuse light beautifully — many plants prefer this over direct sun. The only challenge? Some bathrooms have limited or no natural light. We've noted which plants on this list can handle that. Bathroom Plant Quick Reference Plant Light Needed Humidity Love Size Pet Safe? Boston Fern Medium indirect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Medium–Large ✅ Yes Pothos Low–Medium ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Trailing ❌ No Peace Lily Low–Medium ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Medium ❌ No Spider Plant Medium indirect ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Medium ✅ Yes Calathea Medium indirect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Medium ✅ Yes Philodendron Low–Medium ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Trailing/Medium ❌ No Bird's Nest Fern Low–Medium ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Medium ✅ Yes Chinese Evergreen Low ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Medium ❌ No Tillandsia (Air Plants) Medium ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Small ✅ Yes Fittonia Low–Medium ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Small ✅ Yes Tradescantia Medium ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Trailing ❌ No Orchid Medium indirect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Small–Medium ✅ Yes The 12 Best Bathroom Plants 1. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) If there's one plant that was designed for bathrooms, it's the Boston fern. This lush, cascading fern is a humidity glutton — in dry air it drops fronds like confetti, but in a steamy bathroom it thrives gloriously with minimal fuss. Hang one from the ceiling or set it on a high shelf and let the arching fronds drape down. Why it works: Boston ferns crave humidity above 50% — exactly what your bathroom provides. The filtered light through a bathroom window is ideal because direct sun scorches their delicate fronds. Care tip: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. In a humid bathroom, you may only need to water weekly. Brown frond tips mean the air is too dry — if you see this elsewhere in your home, the bathroom is a better spot. Read our full Boston fern care guide. 2. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) Pothos is the ultimate set-and-forget bathroom plant. Train it along a shower rod, drape it from a shelf above the mirror, or let it cascade from a hanging planter. It tolerates low light conditions that would defeat most plants, and the extra humidity keeps its heart-shaped leaves glossy and vibrant. Why it works: Pothos thrives in low to medium indirect light and loves the humidity boost from showers. Golden pothos, marble queen, and neon varieties all perform beautifully. Care tip: In a humid bathroom, pothos needs less frequent watering — check the soil every 10–14 days. If the leaves start turning yellow, you're probably overwatering. Learn more in our pothos care guide. 3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) Few plants bloom in low light. The peace lily is the gorgeous exception. Its white, sail-shaped flowers appear even in dim bathrooms, and the glossy deep-green foliage adds a spa-like elegance. Peace lilies are also powerhouse air purifiers, making your bathroom feel fresher. Why it works: Peace lilies are native to the rainforest floor, where conditions are warm, humid, and shady — essentially a bathroom. The steam keeps the plant happy and reduces browning leaf tips. Care tip: Keep soil evenly moist. Peace lilies are famously dramatic — they wilt when thirsty and perk right back up after watering. In a bathroom environment, they need water less often. Read our peace lily care guide. 4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) The spider plant's arching green-and-white striped leaves and dangling babies (pups) make it perfect for a bathroom shelf or hanging planter. It's one of the most forgiving houseplants and handles the temperature fluctuations of a bathroom without complaint. Why it works: Spider plants appreciate humidity and adapt to various light levels. They're also non-toxic to pets, making them a safe choice for households with curious cats or dogs. Care tip: Let the top inch of soil dry between waterings. Brown leaf tips usually indicate fluoride sensitivity — use filtered water. The plantlets that grow on long stems can be snipped off and rooted in water or soil. Full care details in our spider plant guide. 5. Calathea (Calathea / Goeppertia spp.) Calatheas are notoriously fussy about humidity — but put one in a bathroom and suddenly it's the easiest plant in the house. The stunning patterned leaves (pinstripes, medallions, peacock feathers) unfurl beautifully in the consistent moisture, and the filtered light through bathroom windows keeps colors vivid without scorching. Why it works: Calatheas demand 50%+ humidity and suffer terribly in dry air (brown edges, curling leaves). A bathroom is the only room in most homes where they consistently get what they need. Care tip: Use filtered or distilled water — calatheas are extremely sensitive to minerals and chemicals in tap water. Keep soil moist but not soggy. The leaves fold up at night (a phenomenon called nyctinasty) — this is normal, not a sign of stress. More details in our calathea care guide. 6. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) The heartleaf philodendron is another trailing champion for bathrooms. Its glossy, heart-shaped leaves stay compact and lush in humid conditions, and it's incredibly tolerant of low light. Train it along a medicine cabinet, wrap it around a towel rack, or let it cascade from a high shelf. Why it works: Philodendrons are rainforest natives that naturally grow in warm, humid, dappled-light environments — your bathroom replicates this perfectly. Care tip: Water when the top inch of soil dries out. In a humid bathroom, this may be every 10–14 days. Leggy growth means the plant wants more light; trim and propagate the cuttings. Read our philodendron care guide. 7. Bird's Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus) With its rippled, apple-green fronds radiating from a central rosette, the bird's nest fern looks like a living piece of sculpture. Unlike Boston ferns, it doesn't shed or drop leaves — the tidy growth habit makes it ideal for smaller bathrooms. Why it works: Bird's nest ferns are epiphytes (they grow on trees in the wild), where they collect rainwater in their central cup. Bathroom humidity keeps the fronds supple and prevents the crispy edges that plague ferns in dry rooms. Care tip: Water around the edges of the rosette, not directly into the center — water pooling in the "nest" can cause rot. Medium indirect light is ideal; avoid direct sun entirely. 8. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) For windowless or near-windowless bathrooms, the Chinese evergreen is a top pick. These tough plants handle very low light and appreciate the humidity bump. The silvery, green, or pink-patterned leaves brighten dark spaces beautifully. Why it works: Aglaonema thrives in exactly the conditions most bathrooms provide: warm, humid, and low-light. Darker-leaved varieties are the most shade-tolerant. Care tip: Let the top inch dry between waterings. Avoid cold drafts. Use well-draining soil. Read our full Chinese evergreen care guide. 9. Tillandsia (Air Plants) Air plants don't need soil at all — they absorb moisture and nutrients through their leaves. In a bathroom, the ambient humidity does most of the watering for you. Display them in geometric holders, on driftwood, or simply set them on a shelf near the shower. Why it works: Bathroom steam provides the regular moisture air plants need. In dry rooms, you'd need to soak or mist them frequently; in a bathroom, a weekly soak or even just the shower steam keeps them happy. Care tip: Shake off excess water after soaking — air plants rot if water sits in their base. They need some air circulation, so avoid enclosed terrariums in humid bathrooms. Medium light is best. 10. Fittonia (Fittonia albivenis) Fittonias — also called nerve plants for their intricate vein patterns — are drama queens that wilt spectacularly in dry air and perk right back up when misted. In a bathroom, the constant humidity keeps them perky without the drama. The white, pink, and red-veined varieties add a beautiful pop of color to vanity counters or windowsills. Why it works: Fittonias are rainforest ground-cover plants that need high humidity and low-to-medium light — bathroom conditions are essentially their native habitat. Care tip: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. These are compact plants that stay small, making them perfect for tight bathroom spaces. Read our fittonia care guide. 11. Tradescantia (Tradescantia zebrina) The striking purple-and-silver striped leaves of tradescantia (commonly called wandering dude or inch plant) make a bold statement trailing from a bathroom shelf. It grows fast, propagates easily, and the humidity keeps the colors vibrant. Why it works: Tradescantia is adaptable to various conditions but looks its absolute best with consistent humidity and medium indirect light — both of which bathrooms provide. Care tip: Pinch back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth. Tradescantia can get sparse at the base over time — simply take cuttings from the tips and replant them in the same pot. See our tradescantia care guide. 12. Orchid (Phalaenopsis) Moth orchids aren't as finicky as their reputation suggests — especially in a bathroom. The humidity keeps their aerial roots plump and green, and the filtered light through a bathroom window is exactly what they prefer. Place one on the vanity counter for an instant spa vibe. Why it works: Phalaenopsis orchids are epiphytes from tropical forests, naturally growing in high-humidity, dappled-light environments. A bathroom with a window is surprisingly close to their native conditions. Care tip: Water every 7–10 days by soaking the pot for 10 minutes (or running water through the bark). Let the potting medium dry slightly between waterings. Don't use regular potting soil — orchids need bark-based media for their aerial roots. Tips for Bathroom Plant Success What About Windowless Bathrooms? If your bathroom has no natural light, you have three options: Choose ultra-low-light plants: Pothos, Chinese evergreen, and peace lily can survive on fluorescent bathroom lighting alone. Add a small grow light: A clip-on LED grow light on a timer provides the supplemental light plants need. Rotate plants: Keep two sets and rotate them weekly — one week in the bathroom, one week in a brighter room. Prevent Mold and Overwatering Use pots with drainage holes — excess moisture is amplified in humid rooms. Choose well-draining soil mixes with perlite or bark. Ensure some air circulation — crack the door or run the exhaust fan after showers to prevent mold on soil surfaces. Wipe down leaves if you notice soap or shampoo residue splashing onto them. Best Placement Ideas On the windowsill: Best for orchids, calatheas, and ferns that need more light. Hanging from the ceiling: Perfect for trailing plants like pothos, philodendron, and tradescantia. On the vanity counter: Small plants like fittonia, air plants, and small ferns. On a shelf above the toilet: Use this often-wasted space for spider plants or Chinese evergreens. In the shower: Hang a pothos or place a fern on a shower shelf for a true jungle-shower experience. Final Thoughts Your bathroom is a hidden oasis for houseplants. The humidity that fogs your mirror and steams your shower is exactly what tropical plants crave. Start with one or two low-maintenance picks like pothos or a peace lily, then expand your collection as you see how well they respond. Ready to transform your bathroom into a botanical retreat? Browse our best-selling plants, explore pet-safe options, or check out our small indoor plants perfect for tight bathroom spaces.

How to Care for Parlor Palm: The Complete Guide The Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans) has been a beloved indoor plant since the Victorian era — and for good reason. This elegant, slow-growing palm thrives in low light, tolerates dry air, and brings a tropical feel to any room without demanding tropical-level care. Parlor Palm at a Glance Botanical Name Chamaedorea elegans Common Names Parlor Palm, Bella Palm, Neanthe Bella Palm Plant Type Tropical palm Mature Size 2–4 ft. indoors Light Low to medium indirect Water When top inch of soil is dry Humidity Average to high (40–60%) Temperature 65–80°F (18–27°C) Soil Well-draining, peat-based mix Toxicity Non-toxic to pets Difficulty Easy Light, Water & Care Parlor Palms are true low-light champions. They prefer medium indirect light but handle low light well. Avoid direct sun, which scorches fronds. Water when the top inch of soil is dry. They're moderate drinkers — not drought-tolerant like succulents but not heavy drinkers either. Humidity & Temperature Average household humidity works fine, though they appreciate a boost (especially in winter). Temperature: 65–80°F. One of the best bedroom plants. Common Problems Brown Leaf Tips Low humidity or over-fertilizing. Increase humidity and dilute fertilizer. Yellow Fronds Overwatering or natural aging (old fronds yellow and should be trimmed). Spider Mites Common in dry indoor air. Mist regularly and wipe fronds with a damp cloth. Parlor Palms are non-toxic to pets — a great choice for pet-friendly homes. They're also excellent air purifiers. 👉 Shop Parlor Palm (Bella Palm) Frequently Asked Questions Can Parlor Palms grow in low light? Yes! Parlor Palms are one of the best palms for low-light conditions. They naturally grow under the canopy of taller trees in tropical forests. Are Parlor Palms safe for pets? Yes. Parlor Palms are non-toxic to cats, dogs, and children. How fast do Parlor Palms grow? Slowly. Expect 4–8 inches of growth per year. They'll reach 2–4 feet over several years. Their slow growth is actually an advantage — they won't outgrow their space. Can I propagate a Parlor Palm? Parlor Palms are grown from seed and don't propagate from cuttings. Division of multi-stemmed plants is possible but risky — palms have sensitive root systems. Victorian elegance meets easy care. Shop Parlor Palm at Divine Roots. 🌿 Related Reading How to Care for Peace Lily How to Care for Calathea

How to Care for Dracaena: The Complete Guide Dracaena is the architectural statement plant that practically takes care of itself. With bold, strappy foliage and a tolerance for neglect that few plants can match, Dracaenas are a go-to choice for offices, living rooms, and anywhere you want effortless greenery. Dracaena at a Glance Botanical Name Dracaena spp. Common Names Dracaena, Dragon Tree, Corn Plant, Janet Craig Plant Type Evergreen tropical tree/shrub Mature Size 2–10 ft. indoors Light Low to bright indirect Water When top half of soil is dry Humidity Average (40–60%) Temperature 60–80°F (16–27°C) Soil Well-draining potting mix Toxicity Toxic to pets Difficulty Beginner-friendly Light Requirements Dracaenas thrive in a wide range of light conditions, from low light to bright indirect. Variegated varieties need more light for their best colors. Avoid direct sun, which scorches leaves. Watering Let the top half of soil dry out between waterings. Dracaenas are drought-tolerant and very sensitive to overwatering. Every 10–14 days in summer, every 2–3 weeks in winter. Water quality: Dracaenas are extremely sensitive to fluoride in tap water — it causes brown leaf tips. Use filtered or distilled water. Humidity & Temperature Average household humidity is fine. Temperature: 60–80°F. Avoid cold drafts below 55°F. Soil & Fertilizing Well-draining potting mix with perlite. Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer with balanced fertilizer at half strength. Dracaenas are light feeders. Propagation Dracaenas propagate from stem cuttings. Cut a section of cane (with or without leaves), place upright in moist soil or water. New growth emerges from the nodes in 2–4 weeks. Common Problems Brown Leaf Tips Almost always fluoride in water. Switch to filtered/distilled water. Can also indicate low humidity or over-fertilizing. Yellow Leaves Overwatering. Let soil dry out more between waterings. Lower leaf yellowing is normal aging. Leggy Growth Cut the stem at the desired height — new growth sprouts below the cut. Root the top section for a new plant. Dracaenas are excellent air-purifying plants — NASA's study found they remove formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. 👉 Shop Sanderiana Dracaena · Shop Janet Craig Compacta Frequently Asked Questions Can Dracaena grow in low light? Yes! Dracaenas are among the best low-light houseplants. Solid green varieties like Janet Craig handle very dim conditions well. Why does my Dracaena have brown tips? Most commonly caused by fluoride in tap water. Switch to filtered or distilled water. Trim brown tips with clean scissors. Is Dracaena toxic to pets? Yes, Dracaena is toxic to cats and dogs. Choose pet-safe alternatives if you have pets. How tall do Dracaenas grow indoors? Most Dracaena species reach 4–6 feet indoors over several years, though some can grow to 10 feet. They grow slowly and can be pruned to any desired height. Effortless elegance, any room, any light. Shop Dracaena at Divine Roots. 🌿 Related Reading Easy Care Houseplants Best Indoor Plants for Beginners How to Care for Peace Lily How to Care for Calathea

How to Care for Chinese Evergreen: The Complete Guide Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) is one of the most forgiving, beautiful houseplants you can grow. With stunning foliage in shades of green, silver, pink, and red — and a remarkable tolerance for low light and neglect — Aglaonema earns its place as a staple in homes, offices, and anywhere green beauty is welcome. Chinese Evergreen at a Glance Botanical Name Aglaonema spp. Common Names Chinese Evergreen, Aglaonema Plant Type Evergreen tropical perennial Mature Size 1–3 ft. tall Light Low to medium indirect Water When top 1–2 inches of soil are dry Humidity Average to high (40–70%) Temperature 65–80°F (18–27°C) Soil Well-draining potting mix Toxicity Mildly toxic to pets Difficulty Beginner-friendly Light Requirements Chinese Evergreens are among the best low-light houseplants available. They evolved on the forest floor of Southeast Asian tropical forests, where light is scarce and filtered. Low light — Solid green varieties thrive here. Perfect for offices and north-facing rooms. Medium indirect — Ideal for most varieties. Variegated and colorful types need medium light for their best colors. Bright indirect — Fine, but not necessary. Avoid direct sun, which bleaches and burns leaves. Pro tip: Pink and red Aglaonema varieties (like Red Vein) need more light than green varieties to maintain their vivid coloring. Watering Chinese Evergreens are drought-tolerant and forgiving of missed waterings. Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. In winter, let the soil dry out more between waterings. Spring/Summer: Every 7–10 days Fall/Winter: Every 10–14 days Signs of overwatering: Yellowing leaves, mushy stems, root rot Signs of underwatering: Drooping or curling leaves that bounce back after watering Humidity Average household humidity works fine for Chinese Evergreens. They appreciate higher humidity (50–70%) but won't struggle in standard conditions. Group with other plants or use a pebble tray if your home is very dry. Temperature Keep in 65–80°F (18–27°C). Chinese Evergreens are sensitive to cold — temperatures below 60°F can cause leaf damage. Keep away from cold drafts and air conditioning vents. Soil Standard well-draining potting mix works well. Add perlite for extra drainage. Repot every 2–3 years — Chinese Evergreens are slow growers and don't mind being slightly root-bound. Fertilizing Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer with balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength Stop in fall/winter Chinese Evergreens are light feeders — less is more Propagation Chinese Evergreens propagate by division or stem cuttings: Division: Separate offset plants during repotting. Ensure each division has its own roots. Stem cuttings: Cut a 6-inch stem, let callous for a day, then plant in moist soil or water. Roots develop in 3–6 weeks. Common Problems Yellow Leaves Most commonly overwatering. Check drainage and reduce watering frequency. Can also indicate cold stress. Brown Leaf Tips Low humidity, fluoride in water, or over-fertilizing. Switch to filtered water and increase humidity. Leggy Growth Insufficient light. Move to a brighter spot. Prune tall stems to encourage bushier growth. 👉 Shop Aglaonema Queen · Shop Aglaonema Red Vein · Shop Aglaonema Starter Plant Frequently Asked Questions Can Chinese Evergreen grow in low light? Yes! Solid green varieties are among the best low-light houseplants available. Variegated types need medium indirect light for their colors, but green Aglaonemas genuinely thrive in dim conditions. How often should I water Chinese Evergreen? Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry — roughly every 7–10 days in warm months. They're drought-tolerant and forgiving, so erring on the side of less water is always safer. Are Chinese Evergreens toxic to pets? Yes, mildly. Aglaonema contains calcium oxalate crystals that cause oral irritation in cats and dogs. Keep out of reach or choose pet-safe plants. Why is my Chinese Evergreen drooping? Usually underwatering or cold stress. Check soil moisture — if dry, water thoroughly. If the soil is moist and the plant is still drooping, check for root rot or cold drafts. Add effortless elegance to any room. Shop Chinese Evergreen at Divine Roots — colorful, forgiving, and beautiful in any light. 🌿 Related Reading Air Purifying Indoor Plants Easy Care Houseplants Best Indoor Plants for Beginners How to Care for Peace Lily How to Care for Calathea

The best low light indoor plants for dark rooms, north-facing windows, and offices. Includes care tips for growing plants in minimal light.