Bringing living greenery into the bathroom transforms a functional space into a tranquil, spa-like environment. The unique microclimate created by a shower, characterized by high humidity and fluctuating temperatures, is an ideal habitat for specific types of plants. Successfully incorporating hanging plants requires selecting species naturally adapted to these conditions and the subdued light often found in bathrooms.
Understanding the High-Humidity Environment
The steamy environment of a shower mimics the understory of a tropical rainforest, the native habitat for many popular houseplants. High humidity significantly slows down plant transpiration, the process of water evaporation from aerial parts. This occurs because the air is saturated with water vapor, reducing the gradient for moisture to escape the plant’s stomata. Plants that thrive here prefer lower rates of water loss and struggle in dry indoor air.
This consistently moist air allows plants to conserve water, but it also means the soil will dry out much slower than in other rooms. Most shower environments also feature limited natural light, creating a habitat that favors shade-tolerant species. Plants adapted to the forest floor or those that grow on other trees, known as epiphytes, are best suited for this unique combination of low light and excessive moisture.
Top Plant Species for Shower Areas
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is a forgiving and popular choice, known for its low-light tolerance. Its trailing habit makes it perfect for hanging, allowing vines to cascade from a high shelf or hook. Pothos prefers its soil to partially dry between waterings, so the surrounding high humidity acts as a buffer against dry air.
Boston Ferns (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston Ferns are high-humidity dependents that struggle in typical dry indoor air, making the bathroom an ideal location. These lush, feathery plants thrive in partial shade. They require consistently moist, not soggy, soil to prevent their fronds from browning. Aim for a spot that receives indirect light to encourage dense, healthy growth.
Air Plants (Tillandsia)
Air Plants are true epiphytes that absorb moisture and nutrients directly through specialized cells called trichomes. These plants require no soil, making them versatile for creative hanging displays. While the shower’s humidity is beneficial, Air Plants must dry completely within four hours after getting wet to prevent the base from rotting.
Cut Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is a cut foliage option used to harness the aromatic benefits of the shower environment. The steam releases the volatile organic compound eucalyptol from the leaves, creating a natural, decongesting aromatherapy session. To maximize the effect, gently crush the leaves before tying a bundle of stems with twine and hanging it from the showerhead.
Installation and Maximizing Plant Benefits
Successfully hanging plants requires careful consideration of structural and drainage logistics. For lightweight potted plants, specialized suction cup hooks or suction-mounted shelves offer a no-drill solution for smooth tile or glass surfaces. Ensure the surface is cleaned and dry before application to maximize the hook’s weight capacity, typically under five pounds.
For heavier trailing plants, a tension rod installed horizontally across a shower opening can support more weight, often up to 22 pounds. All potted plants must have excellent drainage, requiring a planter with a drainage hole and a secure saucer to protect surfaces from water runoff. Placing any plant away from the direct spray of the shower stream will prevent overwatering and leaf damage.
The sensory benefits of plants like cut Eucalyptus are activated by the shower’s steam, which releases aromatic essential oils into the air, offering a temporary respiratory benefit. Additionally, plants such as the Boston Fern and Pothos contribute to air quality through phytoremediation. They absorb common household volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde and xylene through their leaves and roots.