Bathrooms can create a humid environment similar to a rainforest, but many make the mistake of selecting plants that don't thrive in such settings.
As we spend more time at home, houseplants are gaining popularity, with a 79% rise in interest compared to last year, according to Google trends.
Kiera Kay, a plant expert, suggests selecting plants that can tolerate shade or low to medium light, enjoy higher humidity, and prefer warm temperatures.
It's best to keep the soil slightly drier to balance the humidity and prevent over-watering.
Avoid succulents, Jade plants, and Hibiscus, as these types typically struggle in the warmer, less sunlit atmosphere of a bathroom.
Experts note that temperature and humidity fluctuations mean the bathroom can be unsuitable for certain plants. Consider the plant's native region; if it's not from a tropical area, it may not do well in humid conditions.
Here are the plants you should never place in your bathroom.
1. Strelitzia Nicolai
Commonly known as the white bird of paradise, this tall plant can reach up to six feet indoors, making it suitable for large spaces like entryways and living rooms. Its large leaves can overwhelm a bathroom's limited space.
- See more: 10 effective air-purifying plants for your workspace
2. Jade Plant
Jade plants are a popular gift in Asia, symbolizing prosperity. While they thrive at the front of a house, they require more open space than a bathroom can provide.
3. Hibiscus
Hibiscus plants require plenty of sunlight to flourish. During winter, they need to be in the sunniest spot, which is unlikely to be your bathroom, as they need bright light to bloom consistently.
Only bring a Hibiscus near water when you need to rinse it off.
- See: Monty Don's plant watering advice – avoid browning leaves
4. Ponytail Palm
Ponytail palms thrive in bright light or full sun. Although they can survive in lower light, they shouldn't be kept in a bathroom as they originate from desert environments and prefer less humidity.
Avoid placing them near drafts, as this can dry out their leaves.
5. Gardenia
Gardenias are stunning but challenging to care for. They flourish with morning sunlight and afternoon shade, so unless your bathroom has a sunlit window, it's best not to keep them there.
- See more: Plants for mental health and well-being
6. Euphorbia Candelabrum
This plant requires moderate summer watering but should remain dry during winter. Humid conditions can lead to cactus corky scab, causing yellow and brown spots, making it unsuitable for bathrooms.
7. Monkey Mask Monstera
While this plant enjoys humidity, its soil needs to dry out between waterings, especially in winter. Bathrooms tend to retain moisture, making it difficult for this plant to thrive.
- See more: 6 low-light plants – perfect for brighter spaces during the dark winter months
8. Arboreum Zwartkop
Arboreum plants are low-maintenance and popular. They do best in the brightest window of the house. Like many succulents, they thrive better with less water, so bathrooms are not ideal due to their damp conditions.
9. Howea Forsteriana
This tropical plant requires minimal care and is often described as versatile. However, it needs less water in winter and doesn't prefer humid conditions, making it unsuitable for bathrooms.
10. Haworthia Truncata
Haworthia Truncata is a unique house plant with distinct leaves. It requires watering only when the soil is completely dry, which can take up to three weeks or longer in winter. A bathroom won't provide the right conditions for its success.
Which plants thrive in a windowless bathroom?
Several plants can survive in a windowless bathroom. Varieties such as peace lilies, Boston ferns, philodendrons, and spider plants can adapt well to low light. They can be hung or placed on shelves for an attractive display.
