A tropical bathroom is typically known for its out-of-the-box decor using tropical plants & vibes of tropical regions. The main confusion arises in determining what plants to Choose for a Tropical Bathroom while converting a regular bathroom or setting up a new one.
Well, if you made up your mind, I'm here to help you out. Take out a notepad and a pen and make a chart listing a few factors after that you will be able to choose your perfect plant all by yourself in a moment.
Choosing the right plant depends on person-to-person preferences. Choosing the right plant as per your preference depends on these 7 factors :
Consider These Factors Before Choosing a Plant Which is Perfect for You
Humidity
Humidity helps to determine in which environment your plant will flourish at its ultimate potential, dry or wet. For example, tropical plants like ferns, Anthurium, and Monstera come from the tropical rainforest where humidity is very high. Naturally to make this kind of plant thrive you need to place it in your home where it can have most of the humid environment ie. Bathroom, Kitchen, etc.
The ideal humidity for indoor plants ranges from 40 - 60 %.
Temperature
Temperature is a crucial factor. It will help you to determine whether your region is suitable for flourishing the plant or not. Some plants are more humid and temperature-loving while some plants don't tolerate higher temperatures at all. For example, Gardenia needs a higher temperature to thrive than the snake plant which can thrive in lower temperatures.
3. Light
Before jumping into what plants to Choose for a Tropical Bathroom, you need to analyze the sunlight your bathroom receives throughout the day. The different plant needs different levels of light to thrive. for example, Tillandsia needs abundant sunlight to thrive if you place a snake plant in the direct sun can cause the leaf burn.
4. Air
It is important to check the plant before choosing the right plant for your tropical bathroom. fresh air, draft air, and airflow or not! Air movement indirectly affects the plant's growth. Some plants need good airflow whereas some plants don't like draft air or wind at all. Some plants are very responsive to CO2 and other pollutants. These plants absorb CO2 and pollutants from the air and improve the air quality index.
5. Toxicity
Before bringing plants to home, it is very important that hove do some research to be on the safer side. some plants are considered harmful if touched. For example, a Peace lily can bring skin irritation, burning of the mouth, nausea, etc. Small children and pets are more prone to them. Choosing non-toxic varieties of plants becomes a very crucial factor when choosing the right plant for your tropical bathroom.
6. Maintenance
Houseplants are like little babies. It needs your care and attention to flourish. If you are a working professional, it is more likely that you have constraints of time to take care of the plants and regularly water them. In this scenario, maintenance becomes a very important factor to consider. Plants that need low maintenance ie. snake plants are good options to consider.
7. Decor
And finally the decor, the factor which is the ultimate goal. Combining the right types of plants contributes to the symmetry of the decor is very tough. To do that you have to determine the sizes of the plants you require, you need a hanging plant or plant in a tub, and the color of the plants creates a wholesome experience and decor.
A Guide on How to Choose the Right Plant for Your Tropical Bathroom :
Let's make it more simplified. Here is a preference-wise list of plants from which you can choose your favorites without thinking too much about which plant is right for your tropical bathroom.
Plants for a Tropical Bathroom with a High Humidity Level:
Plants that Requires High Humidity and Higher Amount of Light :
1. Gardenia
Gardenia is a tropical plant from the coffee family. They grow in the morning sunlight and afternoon sunlight in warmer climates and tolerate full-day sunlight in cooler environments. But make sure roots are properly covered if you are placing them in your tropical bathroom.
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2. Nerve Plant
A Nerve plant is a high-maintenance indoor plant that needs a disciplined watering schedule. It is also known as the Mosaic plant, Net Plant, and Fittonia.
3. Lipstick Plant
Lipstick plant also known as Aeschynanthus is an evergreen subtropical plant that needs high humidity and higher light to survive. If you want to add some colorful plants to your tropical bathroom make sure to add it to your list.
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4. Staghorn Fern
A Staghorn Fern is a type of plant which fully non-toxic which means it is totally safe to place in the household. It is a tropical plant that needs high humidity and a high amount of indirect sunlight. One of the perfect choices for your Tropical Bathroom if you are more focused on privacy.
5. Bromeliad
Bromeliads are great indoor plants for people who live in frost-free areas like Florida and California throughout the year. The best thing about this indoor plant it blooms once throughout its lifespan and creates a very beautiful vibe. It will make your tropical bathroom more polychromatic in nature.
6. Alocasia
Alocasia is a very striking exotic tropical plant. The different patterns of Alocasia make it unique. This is a plant that needs high humidity and higher exposure to indirect sunlight to thrive.
7. Croton Petra
Croton Petra is a real showstopper! This Croton Petra is so colorful - it has red, orange, yellow, and green leaves all blended together. Crazy combinations! It will totally brighten up any boring bathroom.
8. English Ivy
English Ivy is an evergreen plant that requires high humidity which is perfect for your exotic tropical bathroom setup.
9. African Violet
With a tiny bunch of violet flowers covered in a frame of green leaves, African violet is a beautiful choice of humidity-loving indoor plants.
10. China Doll Plant
The delicate China Doll Plant brings some gorgeous drama. Those arching stems and abundant heart-shaped leaves offer loads of graceful movement. Perfect for classing up modern bathrooms, in my opinion.
Plants that Need High Humidity Low Light to Thrive:
1. Spider plant
Known for its long arching foliage, the spider plant sends out cascading shoots with baby plants at the ends acting like friendly houseplant pets for your bathroom décor.
2. Lemon Lime Maranta (Prayer Plant)
With striking striped leaves in contrasting shades of green and yellow, the Lemon Lime Maranta infuses cheerful pops of color into your bathroom plant collection. It is also known as a prayer plant.
3. Boston Fern
Mostly considered a household plant in the US, the Boston fern spills over its perches like leafy green fountains.
Subtly colorful oval leaves with intricate brushstroke patterns make the Calathea a living work of art for the bathroom, no frame required!
5. Peace Lily
Rising from thick green leaves, the Peace Lily's graceful creamy white blooms hint at its name by promoting harmony and natural serenity within the bathroom's space.
6. Heartleaf Philodendron
The iconic split-leaf Heartleaf Philodendron is an effortless cascade perfect for rolling down from a high shelf to adorn small bathrooms with a charming retro style.
7. Peperomia
Available in a delightful diversity of foliage styles, the adaptable Peperomia dazzles with trailing stems bedecked in lovely button-shaped leaves.
8. Flamingo flower
The flamingo flower, also known as the anthurium, is a popular houseplant known for its vibrant red or pink heart-shaped spathes. These long-lasting blooms add a touch of tropical flair to any home.
Tropical Bathroom Plants That Can Handle High Temperatures
Certain houseplants actually thrive in hot and humid bathroom conditions. When selecting plants, choose varieties that enjoy high moisture and temperatures, as they will flourish best. Look for tropical plants with flexible stems and foliage adapted to retain more water without getting diseased. This list recommends great heat-loving plant options ideal for steamy bathrooms. These plants will add nice visual interest without requiring excessive care. With the right plants suited to the environment, your bathroom can feel like a pleasant tropical oasis.
Plants that Thrives in High Temperatures and Keep the Room Temperature Low
1. Weeping Fig (Ficus Benjamina)
2. Areca palms
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3. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Plants That Require Little Maintenance In A Tropical Bathroom :
Plants that are easy to take care of and require minimal maintenance or no watering :
Create a tranquil and refreshing atmosphere in your bathroom with these low-maintenance tropical plants that thrive in the humid and dimly lit conditions of a spa-like retreat.
1. Paphiopedilums Orchids
One kind of orchid that is well-known for its unusual "slipper" shaped blossoms is the paphiopedilum. These orchids are reasonably easy to care for and come in a wide range of colors and designs.
2. Walking Iris
An iris with horizontal rhizomes that spread out along the ground, and roots at nodes to produce new plants, is known as a wandering iris. As a result, the plant appears to be "walking" throughout the scenery.
3. Foxtail Fern
The name "foxtail fern" comes from the fluffy, foxtail-like fronds of this particular fern. Due to its low light requirements and ease of maintenance, this fern is a popular houseplant.
4. Purple Oxalis
One variety of oxalis with purple flowers and leaves is called purple oxalis. Because it requires little maintenance and brings a splash of color to any space, this plant is a favorite indoor plant.
5. Spiderwort
Spiderwort is a kind of blooming plant that has flowers that resemble spiders and have three petals. Pollinators are drawn to these blooms because of their vast range of hues.
6. Air Plants
One kind of epiphytic plant that grows on other plants or objects for support is the air plant. These plants can obtain their nutrients from the water and air and do not require soil to thrive.
7. String of Pearls
String of pearls is a type of succulent that has long, trailing stems with bead-like leaves. This plant is a popular houseplant because it is easy to care for and it is very forgiving if it is neglected.
Plants for Tropical Bathrooms with Low Light Requirements:
Plant for a Bathroom With No Windows or Dark Bathroom :
1. ZZ Plant
The ZZ plant is a popular houseplant because it is very low-maintenance. It can tolerate low light and infrequent watering. The ZZ plant is also very forgiving of neglect, making it a good choice for people who are new to houseplants.
2. Cast Iron Plant
The cast iron plant is another popular low-maintenance houseplant. It is known for its ability to tolerate a wide range of conditions, including low light, infrequent watering, and even neglect. The cast iron plant is also very resistant to pests and diseases.
3. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a succulent plant that is known for its medicinal properties. The gel from aloe vera leaves can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions, such as sunburn, cuts, and minor burns. Aloe vera is also a popular houseplant because it is very easy to care for. It can tolerate low light and infrequent watering.
4. Golden Pothos
Golden Pothos is a popular vining houseplant that is known for its beautiful leaves. The leaves of golden pothos are variegated with yellow and green. This plant is very easy to care for and can tolerate low light and infrequent watering. Golden pothos is also a very forgiving plant, making it a good choice for people who are new to houseplants.
Plants for a Bathroom that has No Windows but is Indirectly Exposed to Sunlight
1. China Doll Plant
Plant for Bathroom with Artificial Lights :
1. Birds Nest Fern
The Birds Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus) is a popular houseplant due to its unique appearance. It has large, fan-shaped fronds that form a rosette shape, resembling a bird's nest. The fronds are typically a deep green color, but there are also varieties with variegated leaves. Birds Nest Ferns are relatively easy to care for, preferring bright indirect light and moist, well-draining soil. They are also tolerant of low humidity and infrequent watering
2. Philodendron Rojo Congo
The Philodendron Congo is also known as the Red Congo Philodendron. It is a climbing plant with beautiful, heart-shaped leaves that are deep red in color. The Philodendron Congo prefers bright, indirect light and moist soil. It is a good choice for people who want a colorful and easy-to-care-for houseplant.
Air & Odor Absorbing Plants for Tropical Bathroom :
Plants that Absorb Bad Odor from the Air
1. Wax Begonia
A lovely and simple-to-maintain houseplant, wax begonias can help purge the air of toxins like formaldehyde and benzene. They favor moist, well-draining soil and bright, indirect light. Wax begonias can flourish for many years and bring a touch of elegance to your home with the right care.
2. Lady Palm
Lady palms are yet another great option for air purification. They are renowned for their capacity to eliminate xylene, ammonia, and formaldehyde. Lady palms favor moist, well-draining soil and bright, indirect light. They are an excellent option for arid climates because they can also withstand relatively low humidity.
3. Red-Edged Dracaena
One kind of snake plant that is well-known for its exquisitely variegated leaves is the red-edged dracaena. They are also good at eliminating airborne pollutants like benzene, trichloroethylene, and formaldehyde. Well-draining soil and bright, indirect light are preferred by Red-Edged Dracaenas. They are a fantastic option for those who forget to water because they can withstand some drought.
Plants that Soak Up the Moisture in the Air & Improve Air Quality
1. Lilac
Lilacs are well-known for their fragrant blooms and for their ability to purge the air of pollutants. They work wonders at bringing in moisture from the air as well.
2. Purple Waffle Flower
This plant can provide visual interest to a room and is easy to maintain with its distinctive foliage. Additionally, it may aid in raising humidity levels.
3. Windmill Palm
Windmill palms are excellent at increasing humidity, as is generally the case with palms. They need moist soil and lots of sun.
Hanging Plants for Tropical Bathroom :
Hanging plants can be a great way to add some greenery to your bathroom with tropical decor. They not only give the area more visual appeal, but by removing extra moisture from the air, they can also help with air quality. Among the common hanging plants that do well in humid conditions are air
1. Lipstick Plant
2. Staghorn Fern
3. Pothos
Care & Maintenance of The Indoor Plants
- Water less frequently.
- de-log the logged water regularly.
- Place plants away from the shower area so that it doesn't get excess water on the leaves.
- Make drainage holes at the bottom of the tubs so that excess water can escape.
- Open bathroom windows or turn on exhaust fans periodically to circulate fresh air and prevent mold/mildew issues.
- Wipe plant leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to keep them dust-free and allow them to photosynthesize efficiently.
FAQ
1. Should I put a snake plant in the bathroom?
Snake plants are great for bathrooms as they thrive in low light and high humidity.
2. Can jade plants survive in a bathroom?
Jade plants can live in bathrooms, but they prefer bright, indirect light.
3. Does putting plants in the bathroom really eliminate the smell there or do they just purify the air?
Plants in the bathroom can help purify the air by removing harmful substances and releasing oxygen via photosynthesis. They can also aid in the removal of odors by absorbing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants. Peace lily, spider plant, snake plant, English ivy, fishtail fern, bamboo palm, aloe vera, dracaena, golden pothos, Boston fern, money tree, gerbera daisy, barberton daisy, weeping fig, and Chinese evergreen are some of the best air-purifying plants for bathrooms.
4. What are some leaf plants that require very little water and can live off the steam in the bathroom?
Ferns, air plants, and a variety of tropical and semi-tropical plants are excellent choices for bathroom leaf plants that require little water and can survive on steam. Explore which plants to choose that require very little water and can live off the steam in the bathroom here.
5. Why do plants always die in my bathroom?
The most possible reason for this can be the water logging and poor care. A plant is like a baby, make sure to take care of it on a routine basis.
6. Can too much humidity be bad for plants indoors?
Yes, excessive humidity can be harmful to indoor plants. Humidity levels above 80% are excessive for any plant and can prevent them from being able to "breathe" properly, resulting in mold and fungus infestations. Too much humidity can also cause powdery mildew or botrytis, which can kill your plants if not treated immediately. Most indoor environments, especially in the winter, lack adequate humidity for healthy indoor plants. With the exception of cacti and succulents, however, all indoor plants benefit from treatments that increase the humidity in their surroundings.
7. What is the ideal humidity level for indoor plants?
The ideal humidity for indoor plants ranges from 40 - 60 %.
8. Which indoor plants grow in water?
Philodendrons, African Violet, Baby's Tears, Spider Plant, Wandering Jew, Peace Lily, and other plants can be grown in water without soil.
9. Can Plants Create Humidity?
Plants increase air humidity through a process known as evapotranspiration. Water from the soil rises through the plant's roots, stems, and leaves (transpiration), where it evaporates into the air through pores on the leaves known as stomata. They can also aid in the removal of odors by absorbing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants. Peace lily, spider plant, snake plant, English ivy, fishtail fern, bamboo palm, aloe vera, dracaena, golden pothos, Boston fern, money tree, gerbera daisy, barberton daisy, weeping fig, and Chinese evergreen are some of the best air-purifying plants for bathrooms.
