At ENZO Design Build, we understand that interior design goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that enhance the quality of life for their inhabitants. One of the most common challenges in condo renovation is designing bathrooms with little or no natural light.
Here we present the ten best plants that can transform these spaces into small green oases. Additionally, I will share with you the benefits of having plants in enclosed spaces, such as bathrooms or kitchens. To finish, I’ll give you some tips to help your plants survive and continue to provide you quality of life for many years.
Best Plants for Low-Light Bathrooms
Here are the 10 best choices of plants for bathrooms with little light, and no windows directly:
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Ideal for: Bathrooms with artificial light.
Why: The ZZ plant is exceptionally low-maintenance and can thrive even in artificial lighting conditions. Its ability to grow without direct sunlight and its minimal water requirements make it an excellent choice for those seeking a decorative touch with very little upkeep. This plant’s waxy, lush green leaves not only add to the decor but also help in stabilizing the indoor environment by moderating humidity levels.
Sansevieria
Ideal for: Windowless spaces.
Why: Sansevieria, commonly known as snake plant, is highly efficient at purifying indoor air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene. This makes it particularly valuable in bathrooms, which can often contain airborne chemicals from cleaning agents. Its robust nature allows it to thrive in low-light conditions, making it perfect for windowless bathrooms or spaces with limited natural light.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Ideal for: Creating a relaxing atmosphere.
Why: The Peace Lily is not only aesthetically pleasing with its glossy leaves and occasional white blooms but also acts as a natural air purifier. It can improve indoor air quality by filtering out harmful toxins, which is especially beneficial in the confined spaces of a bathroom. The presence of a Peace Lily can contribute to a more relaxing and refreshing bathroom environment. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Ideal for: Humid and shadowy environments.
Why: This lush fern thrives in the humid conditions typically found in bathrooms and can significantly improve the ambiance and air quality of the space. Its natural moisture absorption properties help to maintain comfortable humidity levels, reducing the likelihood of mold and mildew development. The Boston Fern’s dense fronds also add a beautiful touch of greenery, enhancing the bathroom’s aesthetic.
Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
Ideal for: Adding a tropical touch.
Why: The Heartleaf Philodendron is an ideal choice for adding a vibrant, tropical feel to any space. Its trailing or climbing vines can be styled to enhance any bathroom design, whether hanging from the ceiling or draped along shelving. This plant adapts well to low-light conditions and can help create a more inviting and lively space.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Ideal for: Hanging in elevated pots.
Why: Pothos is a versatile and attractive plant that features heart-shaped, glossy leaves which can brighten a low-light bathroom. It’s particularly effective in hanging baskets or high shelves where its vines can cascade gracefully, adding depth and character to the bathroom decor. Pothos also helps in purifying the air, making it a functional and visually appealing addition.
Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)
Ideal for: Interior windows or shelves.
Why: With its unique, ripple-edged leaves, the Bird’s Nest Fern is a striking addition to any bathroom. It thrives in low light and high humidity, which are common in bathrooms. This fern can add a lush, green focal point to the space while also helping to filter indoor air pollutants, contributing to a healthier environment.
Aglaonema
Ideal for: Adding color in dark places.
Why: Known for its colorful and patterned leaves, Aglaonema can bring a splash of color to darker spaces. Its ability to grow under fluorescent lighting as well as its low light tolerance makes it perfect for bathrooms without natural sunlight. Besides its decorative appeal, Aglaonema enhances indoor air quality, making it both a beautiful and practical choice for bathroom greenery.
Calathea
Ideal for: Design lovers.
Why: Calathea plants are celebrated for their ornately patterned leaves, which can introduce sophistication and a dynamic visual element to bathroom decor. These plants prefer indirect light and high humidity, aligning well with typical bathroom environments. They also act as natural air purifiers, improving the environment while elevating the room’s aesthetics.
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
Ideal for: The “forget to water” plant.
Why: The Cast Iron Plant is suited for those who may occasionally neglect their green friends. It’s incredibly hardy, thriving in low light and requiring minimal watering. This plant’s ability to endure lower maintenance conditions makes it an ideal match for the often fluctuating environment of a bathroom. Its lush, dark green leaves provide a constant touch of nature’s beauty, even in less than ideal lighting conditions.
Benefits of Having Plants in Low-Light Bathrooms
Including plants in bathrooms is not only aesthetically pleasing but also brings multiple benefits for health and well-being. Below, we explore how these improvements can manifest through air purification, psychological well-being, and space aesthetics.
Air Purification
Plants like the peace lily and sansevieria are known for their ability to improve air quality in enclosed spaces, making them perfect additions for a low-light bathroom. These plants absorb pollutants and emit oxygen, creating a purer and fresher environment. This process not only benefits respiratory health but also contributes to a cleaner and healthier environment in one of the most used spaces in the home.
Regulating humidity is another significant benefit, especially in an area prone to moisture like the bathroom. Plants like the ZZ plant absorb excess moisture and help maintain a balance, reducing the possibility of mold growth and improving the overall air quality.
Psychological Well-being
Interacting with natural elements such as plants has a proven calming effect, which is especially valuable in a retreat space like the bathroom. Plants like the heartleaf philodendron and pothos can add an element of tranquility and help reduce stress and improve mood with their mere presence. Caring for these plants can also be a meditative activity, offering a peaceful break in the daily routine.
Furthermore, the act of caring for plants can increase the sense of well-being and personal satisfaction. For example, the regular care of the Boston fern can promote a routine that relieves stress and provides a sense of achievement and connection with nature.
Aesthetics and Decoration
Incorporating plants into the design of a bathroom can radically transform its appearance, turning a functional space into a relaxing oasis. The ZZ plant and calathea are examples of how plants can enrich the aesthetics of a bathroom, offering both vibrant greenery and attractive leaf design.
These plants not only fill empty corners but can also serve as decorative focal points.
The use of plants to enhance the aesthetics of the bathroom allows designers and homeowners to express creativity and style. Tailoring the selection of plants to complement or contrast with the bathroom’s color scheme and design can elevate the space’s perception and enhance the experience of its users. For example, a bird’s nest fern placed on a shelf can add a touch of natural elegance that is both refreshing and inspiring.
Necessary Care to Maintain Plants in Low-Light Bathrooms
Maintaining plants in a bathroom with low light may seem challenging, but with the proper care, these can thrive and beautify the space. Below, we detail how to manage crucial aspects such as watering, lighting, and humidity to ensure your plants’ well-being.
Watering
Proper watering is essential for the success of plants in any environment, especially in bathrooms with low light where the evaporation rate may be lower. Plants like the Sansevieria and ZZ plant, which are drought-tolerant, require less water than others.
It is important to regularly check soil moisture with a finger or a moisture meter and water only when the soil is dry to the touch. This preventative approach helps avoid overwatering, a common cause of plant death indoors.
Excess water can lead to root rot, especially in low-light environments where plants use less water. Ensure that pots have good drainage and empty saucers after watering to maintain an optimal moisture level.
Lighting
The lack of natural light in bathrooms can be an obstacle for some plants, but it can be effectively mitigated with the use of grow lights. These lights provide the necessary light spectrum for photosynthesis and can be an excellent solution for keeping plants like Calatheas and Philodendrons healthy.
Grow lights are available in various formats, from bulbs to panels, and can be set to simulate natural daylight cycles, which is beneficial for plant growth.
Placing grow lights at the proper distance from plants is crucial; too close can burn the leaves, while too far may be ineffective. Consult the manufacturer’s specific recommendations for the best results.
Humidity
Bathrooms typically have high humidity due to regular use of showers and baths, which can be beneficial for many indoor plants. However, it is important to ensure that ventilation is adequate to prevent excess moisture that could foster mold and disease in plants.
Plants like the Boston fern and bird’s nest fern thrive in high humidity, but even they need proper air circulation to avoid problems.
Ensure your bathroom is equipped with an air extractor or ventilate regularly to keep the environment fresh and healthy. Additionally, you can adjust the amount of moisture plants receive according to their specific needs, using humidifiers or water trays if necessary.
Incorporate plants into the design of bathrooms with low light
Incorporating plants into the design of bathrooms with low light is not only possible but also desirable to create spaces full of life and beauty. At ENZO Design Build, we are committed to helping you find the best design solutions to make every corner of your home a special place.
If you are looking for a comprehensive and reliable interior design or condo renovation service in Vancouver, you are in the right place. With many years of experience and multiple awards to back it up, ENZO Design Build is the contractor that will best understand and meet your needs. Contact us.
Author
Sahar Abrishami
Sahar Abrishami is the Lead Interior Designer and Co-Founder at Enzo Design Build, known for her innovative and personalized design solutions. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for transforming spaces, Sahar ensures every project reflects the unique needs and style of each client. Her expertise in interior design has helped redefine modern living spaces across Vancouver.
