If you’ve ever stood in your bathroom, looked around at the empty corners, and thought “This space could use a little life”—you’re not alone. Bathrooms are tricky places for plants. Between low light, high humidity, and often zero windows, it can feel impossible to find greenery that actually thrives. But the truth is: you don’t need natural sunlight to enjoy a lush bathroom jungle.
With the right plant choices, even a windowless bathroom can feel like a mini spa. I’ve tested (and killed!) enough houseplants to know which ones can survive in dark, steamy rooms — and which ones look gorgeous without constant fussing. Below, I’m sharing my favorite picks for windowless bathrooms, along with tips to keep them thriving.
Let’s dive into 19 bathroom-friendly plants that can transform your no-window bathroom into a green sanctuary.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
If I had to recommend just one plant for a no-window bathroom, it would hands-down be the snake plant. These plants are survivors — they tolerate neglect, low light, and irregular watering. In fact, they’ll likely thrive more if you leave them alone rather than fuss over them. Snake plants also act as natural air purifiers, helping to filter toxins and freshen up small spaces like bathrooms.
The upright, sword-like leaves bring a modern, architectural feel to a bathroom. Whether tucked beside a tub, perched on a shelf, or in a tall basket planter, a snake plant adds instant style. I’ve had one sitting in my guest bathroom for over a year now, and it looks as good today as when I first placed it there.
💡 Pro Tip: Use a grow light if your bathroom is completely windowless. A simple plug-in LED bulb near the plant will keep it vibrant for years.
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is another MVP for low-light bathrooms. With its glossy, deep-green leaves, it adds richness and shine to an otherwise dull corner. ZZ plants are practically indestructible and don’t mind infrequent watering. I love placing mine on a shelf above the toilet — it gives that forgotten corner a polished, stylish vibe.
One of the coolest things about ZZ plants is their ability to store water in their rhizomes, meaning they’ll forgive you if you forget to water them for weeks. They also look expensive, thanks to their sculptural, waxy leaves. Guests often comment on mine and assume it’s fake because it looks that perfect.
Pair it with neutral bathroom decor — think soft beige towels or a minimalist vanity — and it’ll look like you hired a designer.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is hands-down one of the easiest plants to grow indoors, even in windowless bathrooms. Its trailing vines make it especially fun to style — hang it in a macrame planter or let it spill down from a high shelf for a lush, cascading look. The heart-shaped leaves are charming and instantly soften hard bathroom lines.
One of the things I adore about pothos is its forgiving nature. Even if it gets a little “leggy” from low light, you can trim and propagate it in water — giving you free new plants. Bathrooms are the perfect environment for pothos cuttings because the humidity helps roots grow faster.
Pothos also pairs beautifully with other plants like snake plant or ZZ for a layered jungle vibe. If you’re nervous about starting your bathroom plant journey, pothos is the plant friend that won’t let you down.
4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
If you’re craving a flowering option, the peace lily is a winner. Known for its graceful white blooms and lush leaves, it can handle low light and loves humidity — exactly what your bathroom provides. Peace lilies are also champions at purifying indoor air, which is always a plus in smaller, enclosed spaces.
I’ve found peace lilies to be happiest when watered consistently and allowed to soak up the bathroom’s natural steam. In my powder room, mine even flowers a couple of times a year, brightening up the whole space.
They do wilt dramatically when thirsty (don’t panic!), but they bounce back within hours after a good drink. It’s almost like they’re politely reminding you not to forget them.
5. Boston Fern
Boston ferns are lush, feathery, and thrive in the exact environment most bathrooms offer: humid and cozy. I remember moving my Boston fern into my windowless guest bath during summer — it completely revived after struggling in my dry living room.
The cascading fronds add instant spa-like charm. Place them in a hanging basket or on a high shelf where their fronds can drape dramatically. They need consistent watering to keep the soil moist, but the bathroom’s natural steam helps a lot.
If your bathroom feels like it’s missing that “lush oasis” vibe, Boston ferns are the way to go.
6. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra)
The cast iron plant lives up to its name — tough as nails and nearly impossible to kill. It tolerates darkness, humidity, and occasional neglect, making it perfect for windowless bathrooms.
Its long, arching leaves have a timeless elegance. I’ve seen it styled beautifully in tall planters beside bathroom cabinets, where it adds graceful height and movement. If your bathroom lacks natural light and you’ve given up on plants, give this one a try — you’ll be surprised at how well it adapts.
7. Spider Plant
Spider plants are fun, quirky, and perfect for bathrooms. Their striped leaves arch beautifully, and they produce little baby “spiderettes” that dangle like charms. Bathrooms provide the right humidity for them to flourish, especially if you keep them in a hanging pot near your shower.
They’re also great for beginners — forgiving of missed watering and tough in almost any conditions. Plus, they’re pet-friendly, which is a win if your furry friends sometimes sneak into the bathroom.
8. Lucky Bamboo
Lucky bamboo is technically not bamboo at all, but it looks stylish and thrives in low-light bathrooms. Often grown in water-filled containers, it’s nearly maintenance-free. I keep mine in a tall glass vase with pebbles, and it instantly makes my bathroom feel like a spa.
You can style lucky bamboo in minimalist glass cylinders or arrange several stalks together for a lush display. The best part? It doesn’t even need soil, which means no messy repotting.
9. Calathea (Prayer Plant)
If you want drama, calatheas deliver. Their vibrant, patterned leaves look hand-painted and fold up at night like “prayer hands.” Bathrooms provide the humidity they crave, making them a great match for a no-window setup.
Calatheas can be a little finicky about water quality, so use distilled or filtered water if possible. But once you get the hang of their routine, they reward you with stunning foliage.
They’re a wonderful option for anyone who wants their bathroom to feel like a tropical getaway every time they step inside.
10. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
The parlor palm is a classic choice that never goes out of style. Compact and graceful, it looks beautiful in tight bathroom corners without overwhelming the space. These palms tolerate shade well and love humidity, making them one of the most reliable picks for bathrooms.
I’ve kept one in my master bath for years, and it continues to thrive with minimal effort. Its soft, feathery fronds create a sense of calm, almost like bringing a touch of the tropics into an everyday space.
11. Air Plants (Tillandsia)
For something a little quirky, try air plants. These little wonders don’t need soil at all — just humidity and occasional soaking. Bathrooms provide the perfect environment for them, especially if you mount them on driftwood, tuck them in glass terrariums, or display them in wall-mounted holders.
I love using air plants in guest bathrooms since they spark curiosity and always become a conversation starter. They require almost no maintenance beyond a weekly soak.
12. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese evergreens are another underrated gem for bathrooms with no windows. With their striking variegated leaves and ability to tolerate shade, they add both texture and color. They also come in a variety of patterns, from silver speckles to red-tinted leaves.
I’ve had success keeping mine on the floor near the shower — the steam keeps it happy without much extra work. If your bathroom feels bland, a colorful aglaonema will definitely liven it up.
13. Maidenhair Fern
Maidenhair ferns may look delicate, but they love bathrooms. The constant humidity keeps their lacy fronds from drying out, which is usually the biggest challenge with this plant.
Place them on a vanity or shelf where you can appreciate their fine texture up close. They do need consistent moisture, but in a bathroom setting, it’s much easier to provide than in other rooms.
14. Dracaena
If your bathroom has a bit more floor space, dracaenas are a great way to add height. Their tall, upright growth and dramatic foliage create a bold statement. They’re very forgiving when it comes to low light and infrequent watering.
Style them in tall planters for a modern vibe, or use them to fill awkward empty bathroom corners. They also come in several varieties, from narrow-leafed types to broad, variegated ones.
15. Orchids (with Grow Light)
Orchids may seem like high-maintenance divas, but with the right setup, they can thrive in windowless bathrooms. The key is a small grow light to mimic natural sunlight. Bathrooms provide the perfect humidity for orchids, so once you solve the light issue, they’ll reward you with stunning blooms.
I’ve kept a white phalaenopsis orchid on my bathroom counter for years. With a little LED grow light above it, it continues to bloom every few months, adding elegance and beauty.
Related Reads You’ll Love:
- If you’re looking to add greenery beyond the bathroom, don’t miss our guide on Thriving Indoor Plants for Dark Rooms.
- For outdoor inspiration, check out our list of Best Plants for Fence Lines.