These 25 Houseplants Are Built To Thrive In Dark And Humid Bathrooms

various potted houseplants decorated around a white sink in a bathroom in front of a panelled wall and window

By JONATHAN SWEET / Updated September 20th, 2024
Reviewed By PETER LICKORISH / Meets Our Editorial Guidelines

A well-chosen house plant can be the perfect way to add some energy, intrigue and character to a bathroom.

Not only are they great at brightening up the place, but they are also an excellent method of removing airborne contaminants from such an enclosed environment, to boot.

While the heat and humidity of the bathroom isn’t ideal for all plants, there are certain species which will positively flourish in those conditions.

Nonetheless, you should still watch out for signs of root rot or powdery mildew, which are common afflictions in near-constant moisture.¹

“Managing and coping with humidity is the key for happy bathroom plants,” says Peter Lickorish, a Lecturer in Horticulture.

“If the humidity is too low, leaves will often show crisping and wilting, whereas humidity that is too high tends to cause fungal problems and rot.

“Fungus gnats may also become a problem, for which there are sticky traps and nematodes.”

At the same time, light is a basic requirement for almost all flora, but certain cultivars are better adapted to deal with a dearth of it than others.

Indeed, fluorescent lighting can even supplement the needs of some plant types.

With that in mind, here are 25 species best suited to the dark and humid environs of a bathroom.

1) Air Plant

two air plants that have been suspended from the ceiling with some string against a grey wall

BOTANICAL NAME: Tillandsia spp.
COMMON NAME(S): Air Plant
HARDINESS RATING: H1C
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring / Autumn
SUNLIGHT: Bright, diffused light
WATERING: 1-2 times per week

Air plants dispense with soil altogether, so all you need is a frame or wire to attach them to.

Positioning them in a bathroom will mean that they’ll usually absorb all the moisture they need from the ambient conditions, as misting on the leaves is sufficient.

That means that the only thing you’ll have to supply them with is sunlight, so placing your air plant on the sill of a frosted glass window should suffice.

Failing that, the fluorescence given off by artificial lighting should be enough of a replacement to keep these hardy little creatures alive and kicking.

2) Asparagus Fern

asparagus fern that has been potted and mulched with stones in front of a window with a garden outside

BOTANICAL NAME: Asparagus setaceus
COMMON NAME(S): Asparagus Fern
HARDINESS RATING: H1C
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer
SUNLIGHT: Indirect light
WATERING: 1-2 times per week

The sinewy fronds of this attractive fern are the perfect accompaniment to a bathroom environment, especially since it thrives upon a steady supply of humidity.

It’s another one that prefers at least some sunlight, so a windowsill location is ideal.

Although it looks fuzzy enough to stroke, you should be mindful that it carries barbed thorns on its stems, so keep out of the reach of visitors.

3) Aspidistra

a big leafy aspidistra that is growing inside in a pot in front of a grey wall

BOTANICAL NAME: Aspidistra
COMMON NAME(S): Cast-Iron Plant / Bar Room Plant
HARDINESS RATING: H3
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer
SUNLIGHT: Indirect light
WATERING: Once per fortnight

Aspidistras are also known as cast iron plants, which should give you some idea of their virtually indestructible nature.

It’s one of the few varieties of houseplants which isn’t fussy about much light at all, making it a great choice for a guest bathroom that receives lower footfall.

It can also take or leave humidity levels, adding another plus point to its attractiveness in less-frequented locales.

4) Azalea

a potted pink azalea plant on a table inside in front of a white wall and white blinds

BOTANICAL NAME: Rhododendron simsii
COMMON NAME(S): Indoor Azalea
HARDINESS RATING: H4
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Winter
SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light
WATERING: Twice per week

Blessed with vibrant blooms in all shades, from brilliant white through luscious pink and into deep scarlet, azaleas can provide a colourful contrast to the pristine and sometimes impersonal décor of a bathroom.

They absorb water through their foliage, meaning they’ll thrive in a bathroom environment and your watering assistance will only be needed when the soil fully dries out.

They do require a modicum of sunlight, however.

“Moving from warmer rooms to cooler bathrooms in late autumn can help specimens that are less keen to flower,” shares Peter.

5) Begonia

potted begonia plant in the dark inside with a ray of sunshine hitting it

BOTANICAL NAME: Begonia
COMMON NAME(S): Begonias
HARDINESS RATING: H1B
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Winter
SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light
WATERING: 1-2 times per week

Because they absolutely adore heat and humidity, begonias and bathrooms are a match made in alliterative heaven.

They’ll do best on a bathroom shelf, while opting for a species which is prized for its foliage rather than its flowers (such as rex begonia) is the best way to ensure they cope with limited light levels.

Their absorption of ambient moisture should be sufficient in regularly-used bathrooms but don’t be afraid to water the roots gently if they’re looking thirsty.

6) Bird’s Nest Fern

a bird’s nest fern plant with long green leaves growing in a white pot in front of a white wall on a black and white table cloth

BOTANICAL NAME: Asplenium nidus
COMMON NAME(S): Bird’s Nest Fern
HARDINESS RATING: H1B
SUNLIGHT: medium to bright, indirect light
WATERING: Every 1-2 weeks

Another fern, the bird’s nest boasts bright green foliage and wavy, waxy leaves in large dimensions.

As such, it can impart a tropical aesthetic to your bathroom and will respond positively to the ambient moisture after a shower or bath.

It does prefer sunlight, but it’ll survive just fine in lower-light conditions.

7) Bromeliad

red flowering bromeliad with layered triangular petals

BOTANICAL NAME: Vriesia spp., Ananas spp., Aechmea spp.
COMMON NAME(S): Bromeliad
HARDINESS RATING: H1B
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer
SUNLIGHT: Medium to bright, indirect light
WATERING: Once per week

Famous for thriving in situations where most other plants would falter, bromeliads produce long-lasting blooms in a variety of soft colours during the winter months.

Many of the genera are epiphytic, meaning they absorb water through the air rather than through their roots, which is why they’re such a strong choice in the bathroom.²

However, they do require good ventilation, so leave the extractor fan running after use.

8) Chinese Evergreen

chinese evergreen plant growing in a white pot on a glossy counter with two black bottles either side of it, in front of a white wall

BOTANICAL NAME: Aglaonema
COMMON NAME(S): Chinese Evergreen
HARDINESS RATING: H1B
SUNLIGHT: Low to bright, indirect light
WATERING: Every 1-2 weeks

Humid or dry, bright or dim, the Chinese evergreen is extremely unfussy about the surroundings it’s grown in.

Indeed, it’s one of the most adaptable and resilient species out there, so a hot, dark and stuffy location like a bathroom poses no problem for it whatsoever.

There are around 20 different cultivars to choose from in the genus and each of them will bring some tropical charm to your bathroom space.

9) Croton

a croton plant with big wide green and reddish leaves in an orange pot on a shelve, with a window and white walls behind it

BOTANICAL NAME: Codiaeum variegatum
COMMON NAME(S): Croton
HARDINESS RATING: H1B
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer
SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light
WATERING: Once per week

Crotons are big fans of both excessive moisture and humidity levels, so it’s no wonder they’re often placed in bathrooms in the UK.

There are a multitude of broad-leaved varieties to choose from, some of which come in speckled or mottled patterns.

However, they do require as much indirect light as you’re able to give them, so near a window is best, while some species can outgrow a human adult in height, so make sure you have the requisite space available.

10) Dendrobium Orchid

potted dendrobium orchid plant with pink and white flowers growing on a windowsill next to a larger potted plant and a candle

BOTANICAL NAME: Dendrobium
COMMON NAME(S): Orchid
HARDINESS RATING: H1C
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Winter / Spring
SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light
WATERING: Every 1-2 weeks

Almost any orchid from the 1,500-strong genus will do well in the steamy confines of a bathroom since they invariably prefer a damp environment.

However, some of them are less tolerant of dimly lit locations than others, which is why we recommend the dendrobium orchid for those bathrooms which don’t enjoy a south-facing window.

“If you have a window, the sill will still be its happiest place,” shares Peter.

The pretty blossoms it produces are a delightful addition to any home.

11) Dragon Tree

a potted dragon tree houseplant with long thin leaves growing on a laminated floor in front of a white wall

BOTANICAL NAME: Dracaena draco
COMMON NAME(S): Dragon Tree
HARDINESS RATING: H1C
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer
SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light
WATERING: Once per week

If you have the space to accommodate a tree in your bathroom, the dragon tree is an exceptional choice.

That’s because they thrive in humid conditions and don’t mind too much if they’re deprived of sunlight, making them ideal for the steamy and sultry bathroom environment.

They’re capable of growing over six metres tall in the wild, but rest assured that potted varieties will never reach such lofty heights.³

12) Devil’s Ivy

a potted devil's ivy plant on a wooden surface in front of a wooden window frame

BOTANICAL NAME: Epipremnum aureum
COMMON NAME(S): Devil’s Ivy / Golden Pothos
HARDINESS RATING: H1B
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer
SUNLIGHT: Medium, indirect light
WATERING: Once per week

Also known as Golden Pothos, this attractive trailing plant looks best when displayed in a hanging basket at altitude in your bathroom.

Its tolerance of low light and high humidity levels means it’s an excellent option in that room of the house, while it will let you know if it’s not receiving enough moisture through browning of its leaves.

13) Lucky Bamboo

lucky bathroom stem that is growing around two bamboo toothbrushes and some toothpaste on a wooden wall

BOTANICAL NAME: Dracaena sanderiana
COMMON NAME(S): Lucky Bamboo
HARDINESS RATING: H1B
SUNLIGHT: Indirect light
WATERING: Once per week

This bamboo is highly versatile – not only does it not require bright sunlight, it doesn’t even need soil!

Instead, plant it in a container filled with water and pebbles, changing the former every few weeks, and you’ll be rewarded with a supremely attractive specimen that will bring major spa vibes to your bathroom.

It can even be shaped into the structure of your choosing!

14) Maidenhair Fern

maidenhair fern growing up a tiled bathroom wall

BOTANICAL NAME: Adiantum
COMMON NAME(S): Maidenhair Fern
HARDINESS RATING: H1C
SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light
WATERING: Every other day

In the wild, maidenhair ferns are often found where other plants fear to tread, such as the fissures between rocks.

That’s because they’re capable of soaking up all moisture within their vicinity and they absolutely love a humid environment, so the bathroom is the best place for them.

They boast smaller, daintier leaves than some of their counterparts and have a slow-growing habit, meaning it could take years before they reach full maturity.

15) Majesty Palm

a majesty palm plant with long thin tall leaves growing next to some pots on a shelf in front of a white wall

BOTANICAL NAME: Ravenea rivularis
COMMON NAME(S): Majesty Palm
HARDINESS RATING: H1A
SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light
WATERING: Every 1-2 weeks

One of the larger options on this list, majesty palms can reach up to 3m in an indoor environment and almost ten times that in their natural habitat.

As such, it’s important you ensure you have the dimensions to cater for this tree.

Having said that, those who meet its modest needs (consistent moisture, high humidity levels and as much sunlight as you can give it) will be rewarded with a breath-taking addition to their bathroom.

16) Marble Queen Pothos

marble queen pothos growing in a gold pot against a white background

BOTANICAL NAME: Epipremnum pinnatum ‘Marble Queen’
COMMON NAME(S): Marble Queen Pothos / Cubicle Plant
HARDINESS RATING: H1B
SUNLIGHT: Medium to bright indirect light
WATERING: Once per week

Sometimes referred to as the ‘cubicle plant’ because of its ability to withstand inhospitable environments, the marble queen pothos will feel right at home in your bathroom.

It’s capable of surviving in low-light conditions and although humidity isn’t a prerequisite to achieving its full potential, it certainly won’t hinder its growth.

Its trailing habit makes it ideal for hanging from your shower rail.

17) Monstera

a potted monstera plant on a small square table casting a shadow on a white wall

BOTANICAL NAME: Monstera deliciosa
COMMON NAME(S): Monstera / Swiss Cheese Plant
HARDINESS RATING: H1B
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring / Summer
SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light
WATERING: Every 1-2 weeks

Monsteras are one of the most common house plants across the UK, largely due to their attractive and instantly recognisable foliage and their hardy temperament.

They’re completely unfazed by any sort of humidity and while they will do better when given plenty of sunshine, they’ll cope just fine in its absence.

Their versatility makes them a great choice for any room in the house, including a dark and humid bathroom.

18) Peace Lily

a potted peace lily with white flowers in front of a window with a house outside

BOTANICAL NAME: Spathiphyllum wallisii
COMMON NAME(S): Peace Lily
HARDINESS RATING: H1B
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring / Summer
SUNLIGHT: Low to bright indirect light
WATERING: Once per week

Peace lilies are a perfect fit for the bathroom for several reasons.

Firstly, they have a strong preference for locations with high humidity and low light exposure, meaning a spot next to the shower is ideal.

Secondly, their iconic blossoms burst forth all year round, adding a touch of class to any room they’re placed in.

19) Philodendron

potted philodendron with huge leaves and red stems in front of a window with open blinds

BOTANICAL NAME: Philodendron
COMMON NAME(S): Philodendron
HARDINESS RATING: H2
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer
SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light
WATERING: Every 1-2 weeks

Split-leafed philodendrons bear a remarkable resemblance to monsteras, prompting many people to mistakenly believe they are one and the same.

However, they’re actually very different plants which belong to different genera, though both will do well in a bathroom environment.

But whereas monstera will grow upwards, philodendron tend to grow outwards, so make sure they have enough room to spread if you place one in your privy.

20) Purple Shamrock

purple shamrock inside a brown bag that has been placed in front of a window

BOTANICAL NAME: Oxalis triangularis
COMMON NAME(S): Purple Shamrock
HARDINESS RATING: H3
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer
SUNLIGHT: Medium to bright indirect light
WATERING: Every 1-2 weeks

Purple shamrocks boast an abundance of triangular-shaped leaves in the deepest purple, which creates a pleasing contrast again the white tiles of a conventional bathroom.

That colour scheme is brought further to life during the summer months when the plant will sprout forth a profusion of delicate pink blossoms, while its humidity-loving habit makes it an ideal option for a steamy bathroom shelf.

21) Fiddle-Leaf Fig

a fiddle leaf fig potted in a white container growing on a woody surface in front of a streaky white wall

BOTANICAL NAME: Ficus lyrata
COMMON NAME(S): Fiddle-leaf Fig
HARDINESS RATING: H1B
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer
SUNLIGHT: Bright, direct light
WATERING: Once per week

A native of the tropical jungles of Africa, the fiddle leaf fig is a plant which loves hot and steamy conditions.

Indeed, even the most humid bathroom environments might need to be supplemented with regular misting to keep this critter happy.

Though it does prefer some sunlight, it’ll do fine in dimly-lit bathrooms, but you might find that its pace of growth is slowed as a result.

Given that it can reach 3m in height indoors, that’s perhaps no bad thing.

22) Snake Plant

snake plant with long tall rigid leaves in a white pot in the corner of a tiled room

BOTANICAL NAME: Dracaena trifasciata
COMMON NAME(S): Snake Plant
HARDINESS RATING: H1B
SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light
WATERING: Once per fortnight

The stiff upright leaves of a snake plant make it immediately recognisable and can add some arresting allure to a bathroom corner, especially if complemented by other trailing or climbing species.

It isn’t fazed by stuffy environs and though it prospers best in well-lit rooms, it will cope admirably in conditions others would flounder in.

It may, however, lose its variegated colour pattern if not given enough UV radiation.

23) Spider Plant

a spider plant with long drooping leaves growing in a cream themed bathroom with a skylight

BOTANICAL NAME: Chlorophytum comosum
COMMON NAME(S): Spider Plant
HARDINESS RATING: H2
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer
SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light
WATERING: Once per week

The spider plant is the perfect choice for a family bathroom.

It’s happy in most conditions and will even self-propagate at will, with the tiny flowers it shoots forth in blooming season eventually dropping off and sprouting roots of their own.

It’s the opposite of claustrophobic, so plant it in a pot not much larger than its root ball for the best results.

24) String Of Turtles

string of turtles plant with round leaves cascading over the edges of the brown pot it is growing in in front of a white wall

BOTANICAL NAME: Peperomia prostrata
COMMON NAME(S): String of Turtles
HARDINESS RATING: H1B
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring / Summer / Autumn
SUNLIGHT: Bright indirect light
WATERING: Every 2-3 weeks

Peperomia are delightful little trailing plants which boast turtle-shaped leaves in striped or variegated shades of yellow and green.

As such, they make an elegant addition to your bathroom when placed atop the toilet cistern or sink, especially since their diminutive dimensions won’t take up too much space.

25) ZZ Plant

a zz plant in a grey pot casting shadows on the white wall behind it, next to a window with its curtains drawn

BOTANICAL NAME: Zamioculcas zamiifolia
COMMON NAME(S): ZZ / Fern Arum
HARDINESS RATING: H1B
FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer
SUNLIGHT: Low to bright indirect light
WATERING: Every 2-3 weeks

Also known as the eternity plant, this tough customer is forgiving of even the most forgetful home horticulturalists.

It thrives in low-light conditions and will gobble up any moisture in the atmosphere, meaning it only ever requires watering if its soil is allowed to dry out completely.

References

1
Saalau, E. (2014, February 14). Root Rots of Houseplants. Horticulture and Home Pest News. Retrieved May 2, 2023, from https://hortnews.extension.iastate.edu/2014/02-14/rootrot.html
2
S. (n.d.-c). Bromeliads. Wisconsin Horticulture. Retrieved March 13, 2023, from https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/bromeliads/
3
Dracaena draco | dragon tree. (n.d.). Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved March 13, 2023, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/6092/i-dracaena-draco-i/details