Better Homes & Gardens says yes—your dark bathroom can still grow these 5 plants

May 14, 2025

A Quiet Corner With No Window? Here’s How to Fill It With Life

If you've got a small, windowless bathroom and always assumed plants were off the table — think again. Not everyone has natural light pouring in, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for dull and lifeless. With the right greenery, even the darkest corners can become beautifully soft, calming little sanctuaries. These five resilient indoor plants not only survive in low light — they often do better.

And around here, we've seen them grow happy and healthy in bathrooms with nothing but a flickering bulb and the scent of lavender soap.

1. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ Plant is like that dependable friend who never complains, no matter how you treat them. It thrives on neglect, doesn’t mind humidity, and positively thrives in low-to-no light. Its glossy, deep green leaves bring a sophisticated pop of colour that almost looks artificial — but it's 100% real and incredibly hardy.

To keep it looking its best, wipe the leaves once a month to remove dust. Water sparingly — too much attention is actually this plant’s worst enemy.

“I stuck mine in the ensuite months ago. Still alive. Still shiny. I’ve watered it…maybe twice?” — Local gardener, over coffee

2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Possibly one of the most asked-for indoor plants (even NASA put it on their list of air-purifying heroes), the Peace Lily doesn't ask for much — just a touch of water and a reminder of light every now and then. In windowless bathrooms, a Peace Lily will happily exist under a warm white LED bulb or indirect light from an open door.

Plus, the soft white blooms and gentle foliage can turn a cold bathroom into something gently tranquil, almost like a spa tucked away in a quiet part of the countryside.

3. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

Also known as Mother-In-Law’s Tongue, this one’s got attitude — and resilience in buckets. The upright, sword-like leaves bring a bit of architectural interest, and they don’t mind being left alone for weeks. Snake Plants are near-impossible to kill, tolerate dry soil, artificial light, and high humidity — making them perfect for those tiny bathrooms where no natural light peeks in at all.

Pop it in one of our sculptural ceramic planters for an added touch of charm — ask us in-store about our rotating planter selections perfect for indoor corners.

4. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

If your bathroom runs on the warm-and-steamy side — you’re in luck. Boston Ferns love humidity. While they prefer filtered light, many will tolerate a window-free bathroom if there’s consistent moisture in the air and the occasional artificial light boost.

Hang it from a hook or place it atop a corner shelf, and let its delicate, draping fronds soften the sharp edges of tiles and mirrors. Mist it often (especially in winter), or pair it with our easy-fill indoor mister available at the garden centre for quick weekday refreshes.

5. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

If indoor plants had a cheerleader, Pothos would be the one waving the pompoms. Give it a few weeks, and it’ll begin to trail beautifully over a cabinet or curl along your mirror. This plant grows fast, doesn't object to fluorescent lighting, and will tolerate the very limited light that bounces around a small space.

Try planting it in one of our lightweight hanging pots — they’re ideal for quick hooks over towel rails or high bathroom shelves. We’ve got self-watering options, too, perfect for when you’re not quite sure if it's time to water yet or not.

How to Keep Plants Happy in a Windowless Bathroom

Here’s the trick they don’t usually tell you:

It isn’t about the absence of light — it’s about consistency and small supports. Choose plants that tolerate low light, keep your bathroom lights on a little longer each day if needed, and rotate their positions every 2–3 weeks for a quick “light boost” from another room.

And if you're really leaning into the plant-parent journey, consider something like a basic grow light or LED-friendly globe – easy to install and honestly quite affordable. (One of our most popular globe options is dimmable and fits a standard light socket — ask about it in store!)

Good Design Doesn’t Need Natural Light

Let’s be clear. You don’t need sunlight to add life. With just a handful of the right indoor plants and a splash of patience, even a dark, quiet bathroom can become a green wonder. Around here, we've seen folks brighten entire homes by just sneaking plants into the most unexpected corners.

So don’t wait for the perfect conditions. Work with what you’ve got — and watch those stubborn little plants show off anyway.

Happy planting — and don't forget, if you’re ever unsure which indoor greenery suits your space best, just bring in a photo of your spot. We can chat through lighting, containers, and care tips that'll see your space bloom — no windows required.

Warm regards,

Candeece