Adding plants to your bathroom can transform it into a lush, serene sanctuary. With the right plant, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of greenery even in spaces where natural sunlight is limited. Shower plants, in particular, are an excellent way to introduce some vibrancy and natural beauty to your bathroom. These hardy plants thrive in high humidity and low light conditions, making them perfect companions for your shower.
Whether you have a spacious bathroom or a small shower nook, there are plants that will flourish in the steamy environment. Here’s a list of 21+ plants that will not only survive but thrive in your shower, elevating your bathroom’s ambiance with their lush, vibrant presence.
1. Spider Plant
Spider plants are one of the most adaptable plants you can have in your bathroom. They thrive in humid conditions and indirect light, making them perfect for the shower area. The long, arching leaves of the spider plant are visually stunning, and they produce offshoots, or “babies,” that dangle down like little green tendrils.
The spider plant is incredibly low-maintenance, making it ideal for those who may not have a green thumb. Just be sure to water it regularly, and ensure it’s not sitting in stagnant water. It will grow quickly, adding a touch of vibrancy to your bathroom with its lively, cascading foliage.
2. Boston Fern
Boston ferns are a favorite choice for shower plants, and for a good reason. Their delicate, feathery fronds love humidity and low light, which makes them a perfect match for your bathroom. Boston ferns thrive in a moist, warm environment, and they will grow lush and full, giving your bathroom a tropical vibe.
These ferns do require consistent watering, so be sure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Boston ferns also need good air circulation, so avoid placing them in a space where the humidity is excessively high. If you have a shower with good ventilation, this plant will flourish.
3. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Snake plants are known for their resilience, which makes them ideal for shower areas with varying light and humidity levels. The upright, sword-like leaves are striking and can vary in color from deep green to lighter shades with yellow accents. Snake plants do not require frequent watering, making them perfect for busy individuals who might forget about their plants from time to time.
One of the most beneficial aspects of snake plants is their ability to purify the air. They are known to remove toxins like formaldehyde from the air, contributing to a healthier bathroom environment.
4. Orchids
Orchids are a stunning addition to any bathroom, particularly in the shower area. While they require slightly more attention than other shower plants, their breathtaking blooms make them worth the effort. Orchids love the high humidity of bathrooms, especially the moisture that comes from shower steam.
Keep in mind that orchids do prefer indirect light, so place them in a spot where they can receive filtered light. Water them every week or so and ensure that the water drains away completely to prevent root rot. With the right care, your orchids will reward you with beautiful, long-lasting flowers.
5. Peace Lily
Peace lilies are excellent for bathrooms due to their love of humidity and low light. These plants are not only beautiful, but they also help purify the air by removing toxins. The glossy, dark green leaves contrast beautifully with their white, hood-like flowers, making them a striking addition to your shower.
Peace lilies are relatively low-maintenance plants, but they do require regular watering to keep their soil consistently moist. Be sure not to let the plant sit in water, as this could lead to root rot. Peace lilies will thrive in your shower and can bloom several times a year with the proper care.
6. Bamboo
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Bamboo is a great plant to place in your shower for its unique, sleek appearance and ability to thrive in humid environments. This plant can tolerate indirect light, and its long, slender stalks grow well in the moist conditions of a bathroom. Bamboo is an easy-to-care-for plant, and it can be grown in water or soil.
To keep your bamboo plant healthy, ensure the water level remains high enough to submerge the roots if you are growing it in water. If you prefer soil, make sure it stays moist but not waterlogged. Bamboo is a resilient plant that will add a touch of Zen to your bathroom.
7. English Ivy
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English ivy is an ideal plant for the shower, as it thrives in humid environments and can grow in low-light conditions. Its cascading vines can drape beautifully around the shower area or be trained to climb up the wall for a more dramatic effect. Ivy is a versatile plant that can grow in a variety of shapes, making it easy to incorporate into your bathroom decor.
English ivy is relatively easy to care for. Just be sure to keep the soil moist and prune the vines periodically to prevent overgrowth. Additionally, ivy can be toxic to pets, so if you have animals in your home, be cautious about placement.
8. Air Plants (Tillandsia)
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Air plants are the perfect choice for anyone looking to add some greenery to their shower without worrying about soil. These unique plants absorb moisture from the air, making them ideal for bathrooms. Air plants don’t need to be placed in soil and can be mounted on a decorative piece of driftwood, hanging in your shower, or nestled into a terrarium.
While air plants do need frequent misting, they are low-maintenance overall. Just ensure they are in a well-ventilated area and provide them with occasional soaking in water to keep them hydrated. Their unusual, spiky appearance will add an interesting visual element to your shower.
9. Aloe Vera
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Aloe vera is a well-known plant for its soothing properties, especially for skin irritations and burns. While it’s most commonly found in kitchens or on windowsills, aloe vera can also thrive in your shower. Aloe vera enjoys the humidity of bathrooms and doesn’t require direct sunlight to grow.
This plant prefers to be on the drier side, so be careful not to overwater it. Aloe vera is a great option for bathroom spaces that don’t receive direct sunlight, as it does well in indirect light. Plus, you can use its gel for skin care, making it a handy plant to have around!
10. Pothos
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Pothos is a popular and versatile plant that does exceptionally well in humid bathrooms. This hardy plant can survive in low-light conditions, making it perfect for the shower or other parts of your bathroom. Pothos has heart-shaped leaves that can be variegated in green and yellow, creating a bright, cheerful display in your shower.
Watering pothos is simple – just ensure the soil stays moist, but not soaking wet. It can also tolerate some neglect when it comes to watering, making it an excellent choice for busy people. The vines of pothos can grow quite long, adding a beautiful, cascading effect to your bathroom.
11. Ficus
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Ficus plants are another great option for the shower area. With their wide, glossy leaves and attractive appearance, they can thrive in the humidity and low-light conditions often found in bathrooms. Ficus plants are relatively low-maintenance and grow at a steady pace, making them an attractive option for indoor plant lovers.
These plants do require regular watering, but be sure not to overwater them. Ficus plants prefer a slightly drier soil environment, so it’s essential to allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings. This plant will reward you with lush green foliage and an elegant aesthetic.
12. Philodendron
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Philodendrons are known for their heart-shaped leaves and their ability to thrive in low-light, humid environments—ideal for shower spaces. These plants are resilient and easy to care for, making them a great option for anyone looking to add some greenery to their bathroom without too much effort. Their trailing vines create an appealing cascading effect, adding a sense of natural beauty to your shower.
Philodendrons prefer to be kept in consistently moist soil, but be sure to avoid waterlogged conditions. They also do well in indirect light, so they can be placed anywhere in your bathroom with moderate lighting. This low-maintenance plant will thrive in your shower, making it both a functional and aesthetic addition to your space.
13. Bromeliad
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Bromeliads are known for their stunning, colorful blooms and their ability to thrive in high humidity environments. These plants are an excellent choice for your bathroom, particularly if you want to add a pop of color to your shower. They come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, yellow, and orange, making them eye-catching and vibrant.
Bromeliads thrive in humid spaces and require minimal care. They do not need a lot of soil and can even be grown in just water. Simply keep the base of the plant’s leaves filled with water, and they will do the rest. Be sure to place them in a spot where they will get indirect sunlight to encourage blooming.
14. ZZ Plant
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The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a hardy plant that can withstand low-light and humid conditions, making it an excellent candidate for the shower. Its thick, waxy leaves have a unique, glossy appearance that adds an element of sophistication to your bathroom decor. ZZ plants are also incredibly low-maintenance and can tolerate periods of neglect, making them perfect for busy individuals.
These plants do not need frequent watering; in fact, they prefer to dry out between waterings. The ZZ plant can survive in low light, so it’s ideal for bathrooms with minimal natural light. Just ensure the plant gets good drainage, and it will continue to thrive.
15. Cast Iron Plant
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The Cast Iron plant (Aspidistra elatior) is one of the most durable houseplants you can grow in your shower. Known for its ability to withstand tough conditions, this plant does well in high humidity and low light, making it a perfect fit for a bathroom. The large, glossy green leaves of the Cast Iron plant give it a bold, lush look that stands out in any space.
This plant is low-maintenance and does not require frequent watering, making it ideal for bathrooms that may not get regular attention. Just be sure to water it when the soil feels dry to the touch, and it will flourish in your shower.
16. Pilea (Chinese Money Plant)
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The Pilea, or Chinese Money Plant, is a trendy and easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in humid bathroom conditions. Its round, coin-like leaves are striking and add a modern, minimalist touch to your shower area. This plant enjoys indirect light and humidity, making it perfect for a space with a lot of steam and moisture.
The Pilea is relatively low-maintenance. Water it when the soil feels dry to the touch, and avoid letting the plant sit in water. It’s also a relatively slow grower, so you won’t need to worry about it becoming too large for your bathroom space. Its unique look will add an interesting dimension to your shower area.
17. Ferns (Lady Fern)
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Lady ferns are another excellent choice for your shower, as they thrive in humid, moist environments. These plants have delicate, feathery fronds that grow in a graceful, arching shape, adding a touch of elegance to your bathroom. Lady ferns prefer indirect light and can be grown in areas with minimal sunlight, making them perfect for bathroom showers.
Watering is crucial for Lady ferns, as they require consistently moist soil. However, be sure not to let the plant sit in standing water, as this can cause root rot. With the proper care, your Lady fern will bring lush greenery to your shower space.
18. Begonias
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Begonias are a great option for anyone looking to add some colorful flowers to their shower. These plants thrive in the high humidity of bathrooms and are known for their vibrant blooms and striking foliage. Begonias come in various shapes and sizes, with some varieties producing showy, colorful flowers in shades of pink, red, and white.
These plants prefer indirect light and moist soil, but they do not like to be waterlogged, so ensure that the soil has proper drainage. Begonias also benefit from regular misting, especially in high-humidity bathrooms, to keep their leaves lush and healthy. Their vibrant colors will add a cheerful touch to your bathroom decor.
19. St. Augustine Grass
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St. Augustine grass might not be the first plant that comes to mind for a shower, but it’s a fantastic option for creating a lush, tropical atmosphere in your bathroom. This type of grass does well in high humidity and can add a natural, grassy aesthetic to your shower area.
You’ll need to grow St. Augustine grass in a shallow, well-draining pot to avoid root rot. It’s perfect for bathrooms with ample space, and you can also place it in a decorative tray or container for a modern, nature-inspired look. Regular watering and indirect light are essential for keeping it healthy and vibrant.
20. Lavender
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Lavender might be more commonly known for its outdoor garden presence, but it can also thrive in a bathroom with enough light and humidity. Lavender’s calming fragrance makes it a great choice for your shower, creating a spa-like atmosphere as you relax and unwind.
While lavender prefers a sunny spot, it can tolerate indirect light in a bathroom setting. Ensure that the soil is well-draining, and water the plant when the soil feels dry. Lavender is a relatively low-maintenance plant, and its fragrant blooms will fill your bathroom with a relaxing aroma.
21. Maranta (Prayer Plant)
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The Maranta, also known as the prayer plant, is a beautiful and unique plant that thrives in humid environments. Its striking foliage features vibrant patterns and colors, with leaves that fold up at night (hence the name “prayer plant”). The Maranta adds an exotic, tropical feel to your bathroom.
This plant prefers indirect light and consistently moist soil, making it perfect for a humid bathroom environment. Regular watering and occasional misting will keep your Maranta plant looking lush and healthy. Its vibrant foliage will brighten up your shower, making it a real focal point.
Conclusion
Adding shower plants to your bathroom is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a more relaxed and rejuvenating environment. Whether you’re looking for air-purifying plants, colorful blooms, or easy-care greenery, there’s a perfect plant for every bathroom space. From the vibrant orchid to the low-maintenance snake plant, these 21+ shower plants will add life, beauty, and a touch of nature to your bathroom.
When choosing the right plant for your shower, consider factors like light conditions, humidity, and how much care each plant requires. With the right choice, you’ll have a thriving indoor garden that enhances your bathroom’s ambiance and promotes a calming atmosphere. So, take your pick from these amazing options, and transform your shower into a verdant retreat!
