Bathroom Plant Decor Ideas & Create Your Own Green Sanctuary

Bathrooms deserve just as much attention in terms of design as any other part of our home. They’re often overlooked when it comes time to decorate. Three years ago, I changed that when I put my first pothos on my bathroom shelf. It was a remarkable transformation – my bathroom suddenly felt like a relaxing spa.

Today I am sharing 12 bathroom plant decor ideas which have changed the way I view this important space. There’s a solution for every bathroom, whether you have a small windowless space or a large sun-drenched bath.

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Why your bathroom actually needs plants

Let’s discuss the practicality of bathroom plants before we look at design ideas.

Bathrooms are a great place to grow tropical plants. Showering gives these plants the moisture that they need. My Boston fern was struggling in my living area, but thrived when I moved it to above my bath.

Air purification is also aided by plants. Sarah, a certified horticulturist explained that some plants can absorb excessive moisture and reduce mold growth. They’re not meant to replace proper ventilation but they do contribute to a more pleasant-smelling room.

It’s important to not ignore the psychological benefits. Greenery has been shown to reduce stress. When you begin your morning routine, surrounded by greenery instead of bare walls, it sets a different tone.

Design 1: Shower Eucalyptus bundle

This is my favorite bathroom plant hack. The steam from the eucalyptus leaves releases essential oils that create an aromatherapy experience.

How I do it is: I purchase a bunch at my local farmer’s market, tie them with natural twine and hang them using the string from my showerhead. The bundle should be hung where the steam will surround it, not where water will hit it.

The eucalyptus usually lasts for 2-3 weeks before it needs to be replaced. The smell is amazing – refreshing, minty and spa-like. The vapors are especially effective during the cold season, when they help clear your sinuses.

Design 2: Corner Shelves with Cascading Pothos

Corner shelves can be a game changer for those with limited counterspace. Three floating corner shelves were installed at different heights to create a cascading look in my bathroom.

Pothos are extremely forgiving. Pothos plants tolerate low-light conditions and are therefore perfect for bathrooms with no windows. They have long, lush vines that create a jungle-like aesthetic.

White ceramic pots are a great choice for a modern, clean look. Terracotta is also a beautiful option for an organic feel. It’s important to have drainage holes in your pots. I found this out the hard way when I killed two plants by overwatering.

Place your shelves so that you can see them as you get ready. My shelves are directly across from my bathroom mirror so I can enjoy the greenery while brushing my teeth every morning.

Design 3: Windowill Garden

Don’t waste your bathroom window if you have one. I turned my bathroom window into a mini-greenhouse with a variety of small plants.

The current arrangement includes an aloe plant (which I use to moisturize my skin), a jade plant and air plants in shells that I collected over the summer. They are happy because of the natural light, and create a lovely view in my tub.

To maintain privacy, I planted taller plants at the outer edges of the garden and kept the central plant lower. This creates an attractive natural screen that doesn’t block all of the light. My bathroom walls are adorned with beautiful patterns created by the morning sun shining through the leaves.

Design 4: Above-Toilet Plant Ledge

The awkward space above your bathroom toilet is perfect for plants. I painted a wooden ledge white to match the trim on my bathroom. It was installed about two feet above the toilet tank.

I currently have three plants: a large snake plant at the center, and two smaller spider plants either side. Snake plants are virtually indestructible. I forgot to water mine for 3 weeks and it did not even blink.

Spider plants can produce plantlets which dangle from the spider plants, adding visual dimension and interest. I have propagated many babies from these spider plants and given them away to friends. It’s satisfying to have a plant that multiplies.

Design 5: Macrame Planters on Hanging Hooks

YouTube videos helped me create simple macrame hangers. I hung them at various heights, with each one holding a different type of trailing plant.

The first has a string succulent of pearls that looks like tiny beads falling down. The second plant is a philodendron, which has grown so large that I had to train the plant along the curtain rod. The third has a Boston Fern that loves the humidity in the bathroom.

Macrame is a great way to add texture and boho style to the bathroom. It softens hard surfaces like tile, mirrors, and glass. The installation was easy; I used ceiling hangers rated to hold the weight of plants and soil when they are wet.

Design:6 Bathtub Tray Garden

My clawfoot tub has a wooden tray which stretches across the bath. I have dedicated half of this to a small display of plants. This also works with built-in modern tubs.

Three small plants are kept here. A tiny peace lily with occasional white flowers, a pot of bamboo that isn’t real bamboo but looks like one and an airplant in a decorative container.

The steam that I generate when I bathe or shower benefits these plants. This spot seems to be a favorite of the peace lily, which has bloomed in my bathroom more than in my living space. Make sure that your tray will not accidentally spill plants into the bathwater.

Design 7: Vertical Garden

The project was more difficult, but it had a huge impact. It looks like living art. I installed a vertical planter system in my bathroom.

The system I used had pockets for each plant. I used a mix of textures and colors, including dark green pothos and silvery-green Philodendrons, as well as bright green Ferns. Variety creates visual interest, while still maintaining a cohesive palette of green.

Vertical gardens can be difficult to water. Each plant is removed once a week and I water it in the sink. Then, I let it drain, then put them back into their pockets. It prevents any water damage on my wall and ensures that the plants are properly hydrated.

Design 8: Bathroom Vanity Styling

I used to have a cluttered bathroom vanity, but now it’s streamlined with plants. My counter has one statement plant – it’s currently a beautiful orchid in a pot of white.

Bathroom conditions are ideal for orchids, despite their undeserved reputation as being difficult. They are happy with the humidity and indirect light coming from my window. My plant has bloomed twice since I put it in the bathroom.

Style it with carefully selected items, such as a soap dispenser, jewelry tray, and candle. The plant makes my daily routine more luxurious.

Design 9: Ladder Shelf Plant Display

I bought an old wooden plant stand at a thrift shop for $15. It leans against the wall and holds plants of varying heights on each rung.

Second rung: two medium-sized pothos in matching pots.
Third rung: A collection of smaller air plants, and a small succulent collection.
Top rung: A trailing line of hearts cascading down.

This design is especially useful in small bathrooms, as it makes use of vertical space instead of precious floor space. The rustic ladder brings warmth and character to a previously cold, minimalistic space.

Design 10: Medicine Cabinet Top Greenery

The flat area on top of the medicine cabinet is often overlooked, but it’s ideal for plants that can tolerate low light. It’s one of my most low-maintenance houseplants.

ZZ plants have dark, glossy leaves that reflect the bathroom lights beautifully. They can tolerate low light and irregular watering. It’s been growing in the same place for 18 months, with minimal care.

If you have small children, the height of the plant will keep it out of reach. The plant adds a touch of elegance to the room, without taking up any space.

Design 11: Shower Niche Plant Integration

I have a niche in my shower for shampoo and soap. But, one shelf is dedicated to a plant. I have a tillandsia air plant that does not require soil. It actually absorbs nutrients and water through its leaves.

Shower steam will keep it perfectly hydrated. It only needs to be watered once a week with a gentle rinsing under the shower spray. When guests visit our bathroom, it’s a great conversation starter.

Choose plants that are able to withstand being splashed on occasion. Some orchids and ferns are also suitable. Make sure that water drains away from the plants – standing water will cause rot.

Design 12: The Statement Flooring Plant

One large plant can make a huge statement if you have enough floor space. It’s stunning to have a large bird of paradise plant in my bathroom.

It’s almost five feet high and creates a jungle-like atmosphere. The large leaves help to fill the vertical space of a room that has high ceilings.

In bathrooms with plenty of natural light, large floor plants are best. Consider a large dracaena or snake plant if you have a small space or low light. They both tolerate low light levels and do not require as much room as tropical plants.

Bathroom Plant Success: Tips and Tricks

Here are some of my best tips after years of trial and error (and yes, you’ve seen me kill my fair share of plants).

Drainage cannot be negotiable. Every pot should have a drainage hole. I put mine on saucers that I use to collect excess water. I then empty them after watering.

Assess your lighting honestly. I thought that my bathroom was well lit until I measured it using a light meter application. The majority of bathrooms are darker than we imagine. Choose your plants carefully.

Watering according to humidity. Bathroom plants require less watering than those in rooms with a higher humidity. Shower steam is a significant source of moisture.

Rotate your plants periodically. Turn your plants every few weeks to ensure that all sides are exposed to equal amounts of light. It prevents them growing lopsided.

Be on the lookout for pest problems. Humidity can attract fungus-gnats. Allowing the soil to slightly dry between waterings has helped me prevent this.

Start small. Start small. I began with two plants and added more as my confidence grew.

Create Your Perfect Bathroom Oasis

Bathroom plant decor can be done in many different ways. It’s important that your bathroom is unique.

What is the size of your bathroom? How big is your bathroom? How much time do you have to devote to the care of plants? Ask yourself these questions honestly.

Choose one or two of these ideas that you find exciting. Then, implement them and see how they respond to the plants. Make any necessary adjustments. Gardening, even indoor gardening, is always an experiment.

It doesn’t need to be a large investment. The majority of my plants were between five and fifteen bucks. Pots were purchased at discount home stores and thrift shops. However, the impact has been priceless.

The bathroom is now a place where I want to spend my time. It has gone from being a functional room into one that I enjoy. My morning routine is more deliberate. The baths are relaxing. I feel more relaxed when I am surrounded by nature.