The Best Plants for Bedrooms Are What All of These Sleep-Friendly Spaces Have in Common

Reading up on Domino’s shopping guides is like having your own personal product concierge. We do the tedious part—deep-dive research, hands-on testing, and tapping experts for advice—so all you have to do is hit “add to cart.” That’s why we call them Simply the Best.

Plant stylist and founder of Free Plants Atlanta Briana St. Holder compares greenery in the bedroom to hanging artwork in your home: Both offer creative stimulation and a mood boost. “Some people love the aesthetic, but having plants in your sleeping space also feels good,” says Holder. “Why restrict them to just your living room or patio?” And there’s no time like the present to improve your well-being, right? Plants have a reputation for doing that and much more, which is why we tapped three botanical experts—Stephanie Horton, interior plant consultant and owner of Botanical Black Girl; Todd Carr of Hort & Pott; and St. Holder—to help us round up the best plants for bedrooms.

Our Favorites

• For the new-to-plants: Pothos
• For the forgetful: Snake Plant
• For the laid-back: Hoya
• For the devoted: Fiddle-Leaf Fig
• For the one who loves the drama: Begonia Maculata
• For the one who doesn’t hover: Philodendron
• For the one who loves to accessorize: Leopard Plant
• For the one drawn to dark colors: Rubber Tree Plant
• For the pet lover: Spider Plant

For the New-to-Plants: Pothos

Sun requirement: Medium to bright indirect light |  Watering schedule: Once every 1 to 2 weeks | Size: Up to 10 feet tall | Soil type: Well draining; slightly acidic pH from 6.1 to 6.8  

Why we chose it: This easy-to-grow greenery is ideal for beginner plant parents.

For the novice plant caretaker whose green thumb is still in training, this is one of the best plants for bedrooms. Experts rank it among the easiest to keep alive and thriving. Pothos can withstand soil slightly outside the recommended pH range, but pay close attention that it isn’t too acidic (5.8 and below) to protect its heart-shaped, waxy leaves from wilting and avoid possible root damage. Most pothos plants respond well to bright, indirect light, so placement near a bedroom window with light-filtering curtains would be an ideal setup. However, some varieties like the jade pothos perform well in low light (their leaves actually get greener in this setting), making it a perfect pick for those who prefer a dimly lit bedroom. Keep in mind that planting your pothos in well-draining, loosely packed soil will ensure that it grows with ease; otherwise it’s susceptible to fungal bacterial infections and root rot. Water it once weekly during warmer months, and reduce the frequency to once every two weeks during colder months. If you have furry buddies, consider placing the plant out of their reach—the pothos is toxic to cats and dogs.

For the Forgetful: Snake Plant

Sun requirement: About 5 or more hours of indirect sunlight |  Watering schedule: Once every 2 weeks | Size: From 1 to 8 feet | Soil type: Dry, well drained, nutrient rich; pH from 5.5 to 7.5 

Why we chose it: This striking pick has a reputation for its durability and is low-maintenance.

If time and effort are the only factors keeping you from plant parenthood, then here’s some incentive to add this flora to your shopping cart: Snake plants only require biweekly watering sessions thanks to thick leaves that store ample amounts of H2O. Yes, that means no more panicking if you forget to top them off—snake plants also perform best in dry soil (to check on their health, just watch out for drooping leaves, a sign of underwatering). As one of the highest oxygen-producing plants out there, according to a Harvard study, this beauty will take in oxygen and convert it into carbon dioxide at night, which can help purify the air from allergens and pollutants. 

For the Laid-Back: Hoya

Sun requirement: Mostly bright, indirect light, needs up to 4 hours of direct sunlight | Watering schedule: Weekly during the growing season; biweekly to monthly during fall/winter | Size: Up to 59 feet | Soil type: Well draining; pH from 6.1 to 7.3

Why we chose it: This robust semi-succulent adds a relaxed feel to your space. 

We get it, laid-back vibe lovers: Your bedroom decor never feels quite right until you’ve added yet another hanging plant to the rotation. So go ahead and expand on your jungle-esque setup with a hoya as your next plant pick. As a gorgeous tropical variety, the hoya appreciates a bit of humidity. It also has a pretty chill maintenance schedule: Let the top 2 inches of soil dry between waterings (weekly during the growing season, and one to two times a month during cooler seasons) and give the leaves an occasional misting. While they’re not toxic to people or animals, we suggest hanging them out of reach of nibbling pets whose digestive systems can’t safely process the leaves. Also they’re aromatic, so if you want a flowery scent in your bedroom, add this plant to your wish list.

For the Devoted: Fiddle-Leaf Fig

Sun requirement: Combination of indirect and direct sunlight | Watering schedule: When top inch of soil is dry, decrease watering during winter months | Size: Up to 10 feet tall indoors | Soil type: Well draining, loamy 

Why we chose it: This beautiful botanical tree loves light and humidity.

Any bedroom could benefit from having a fiddle-leaf fig as an occupant (it’s absolutely gorgeous), but this lush looker makes you work for the results, which won’t be a problem if you enjoy doting on your plants. Drench it when the top inch of soil dries, then allow it to drain and dry before watering again, and don’t forget to mist it throughout the colder months—it’s a natural jungle dweller, so humidity and warm temps are a must. (In other words, plan to bump the thermostat up a notch.) This indoor plant loves light and does well inside, but certainly prefers a few hours of direct morning and afternoon rays. As for fertilizer, fiddle-leaf figs require balance—a single spring feeding will do, then step it up to monthly during the summer. Be mindful of where you place this plant in your sleeping quarters: Dogs and cats will have to admire it from a distance, as it’s toxic to them.

For the One Who Loves the Drama: Begonia Maculata

Sun requirement: Bright, indirect light | Watering schedule: Weekly | Size: Up to 5 feet tall | Soil type: Sandy clay, loamy 

Why we chose it: Spotted leaves make this plant the star of any space it occupies.

It’s impossible not to fawn over this begonia—what’s not to love about a polka-dotted plant? With the right amount of care, this potted beauty grows quickly and will command attention wherever it stands, which makes it an ideal match for large bedrooms. To keep those naturally adorned leaves in tip-top condition, give your begonia a regular pruning treatment, fertilize one to two times a month, and repot it annually. Water this flora when the top inch of soil is dry, and it will thrive in appreciation. Its leaves, on the other hand, cannot handle much excess moisture—Domino’s chief content officer, Kate Berry, ran into that problem while tending to her begonias at home. “I had some out in the rain, and when their leaves got wet, they were not so happy,” she says. To avoid soft, soggy leaves and root rot, be sure to water begonias from the bottom and check on the soil frequently.

For the One Who Doesn’t Hover: Philodendron

Sun requirement: Medium and bright indirect light | Watering schedule: Weekly, less during winter | Size: 12 feet long | Soil type: Loose, well drained 

Why we chose it: This lush-leafed selection flourishes in many indoor environments.

This particular species is known as one of the most low-maintenance plants. Place it on a shelf or nightstand in your room where it will have plenty of elbow room to flourish, water it weekly, and watch it grow up to 3 feet wide and 12 feet long(!). It’s totally normal to see a few yellow leaves in an older philodendron, but several discolored blades may indicate too much sun exposure. Brown leaves could suggest over- or underwatering, but a philodendron can easily bounce back with adjustments. Some varieties such as the lacy tree can be toxic if consumed by pets, so consider placing them in a hanging basket if you have four-legged companions.

For the One Who Loves to Accessorize: Leopard Plant 

Sun requirement: Partial or dappled sunlight, no direct light | Watering schedule: Weekly | Size: 3 to 4 feet tall | Soil type: Fertile, rich and loamy, clay, well drained 

Why we chose it: This Japanese native has circular leaves that love the shade.

If you’re committed to a low-light bedroom setup, then incorporating this plant into your arrangement should be a cinch. Leopard plants—also known as Ligularia, green leopard, or tractor seat plants—have the cutest foliage that produces golden flowers, which can subtly brighten up your bedroom greenery. Don’t be afraid of overwatering either: This plant and its roots love moisture and rich, organic soil—at a minimum, it requires weekly watering. Add compost fertilizer before new growth in spring to keep it healthy. Also: Rearrange your bedroom furniture as often as you’d like, but try to keep your leopard plant in one (shady) spot. It thrives best when left undisturbed.

For the One Drawn to Dark Colors: Rubber Tree Plant

Sun requirement: 6 to 8 hours of indirect sun | Watering schedule: Weekly | Size: From 8 to 10 feet | Soil type: Well draining; slightly acidic pH from 5.5 to 7.0 

Why we chose it: This glistening piece of greenery comes in various shades, from reddish black to burgundy.

Also known as the Ficus Elastica, this popular plant is relatively easy to care for. Its multihued, supple leaves can tolerate low to medium light settings without question, as long as you give it several hours of bright, indirect sunlight each day. However, steer clear of direct exposure to prevent scorched leaves. The rubber tree only needs water on a weekly basis, but always allow its soil to drain completely before watering it again to ward off root rot. While getting up close and personal with this plant (to prune or give extra attention), handling it with long sleeves and gloves on is best—its milky white sap is considered toxic to the skin and eyes, and that goes for pets, too.

For the Pet Lover: Spider Plant

Sun requirement: Bright, indirect light | Watering schedule: Weekly | Size: 2 feet wide; 2 to 3 feet long | Soil type: Moist, well drained

Why we chose it: This thin, leafy plant can effortlessly beautify a room with its cascade of foliage.

Spider plants check all the boxes as one of the best plants for bedrooms. They are easy to care for, grow with ease (no wishing for longer stems here!), and have a distinct cascading appearance. Spider plants’ moisture needs can vary depending on the season. During the summer, water twice a week, adding enough liquid until it drains out the bottom of the planter, and perform a topsoil finger check: If the top inch is still damp, check again in a few days and hold off watering until it feels mostly dry. In the wintertime, it can survive on a less rigorous watering schedule—again, keep a close watch on the soil moisture and water accordingly. This plant not only looks good hanging, but experts tout it as one of the easiest trailing varieties to have around. Spider plants are safe for pets; they’re known to increase the humidity in a room; and they’re pretty resilient, so don’t fret if you occasionally slip up and forget to water.

How We Chose These Products

To select the best plants for bedrooms, we considered the required upkeep (from easy to finicky), accounted for their ability to fare in indoor environments, and noted their size and appearance (because what’s a bedroom design without aesthetics?). We also considered qualities such as air-purifying abilities, versatility, and growth rate. From there, we mapped out why each option would or wouldn’t work for different types of plant owners and spaces. Are they safe for pets? Do they require a ton of light and frequent repotting? Can they withstand a water-scheduling snafu? With the expertise of St. Holder, Horton, and Carr, we were able to handpick these plants, answer key questions, and more. 

Our Shopping Checklist

Commitment Level

There are a few main factors to consider when purchasing plants for your bedroom. First, identify your desired commitment level to plant parenting. “Do you want a set-it-and-forget-it plant, or would you rather be very hands on?” says Horton.

Home Environment

Optimal lighting for your preferred plant is a must, says St. Holder. Habits such as keeping your blinds drawn for the majority of the day could automatically rule out some of your houseplant faves that require regular exposure to the sun. Consider various factors. “How well lit (or not) is your bedroom?” asks Horton. “How many windows does the room have and which direction(s) do they face?”

Additionally, keep in mind that toxic plants may not be ideal if you have curious pets. “I have all kinds of plants because my dog does not bite the leaves,” St. Holder points out. “If you have a cat, they tend to nibble at leaves.”

Bedroom Design

Both St. Holder and Horton recommend that prospective plant buyers choose greenery based on bedroom aesthetics. For a modern, clean space, St. Holder suggests an eye-catching option like the snake plant. For more of a jungle vibe, she loves a monstera for its statement characteristics. 

“I suggest a large anchor plant like a dracaena or the still very trendy fiddle-leaf fig,” says Horton.” Having a large or established statement plant can easily make an impact in your bedroom without the concern of having too many.” 

Large or rare leafy wonders can be a splurge compared to everyday houseplants (which are typically reasonably priced), so budget accordingly, St. Holder advises. There’s a plant out there for every price point.  

Ask Domino

Q: Which of the best bedroom plants are the easiest to care for? 

Plants that require minimal watering and light exposure fare well in bedroom settings. St. Holder recommends ZZ plants and heart-leaf philodendrons for new plant parents who prefer low-maintenance options that don’t require a ton of light. And Horton sticks with the experts’ tried-and-true few, like the snake plant, vining pothos, or her personal favorite: the monstera deliciosa. “We’ve all seen their gorgeous split leaves (fenestrations), and they’re unmistakably one of the most satisfying plants to have and propagate in your home plant collection,” she says.

Q: How will I know if I’m giving my bedroom plants enough water? 

While it depends on the plant, St. Holder offers a couple of clues on how to tell if your plant is thirsting for water or drowning in moisture. Drooping or discolored leaves is one, as well as the texture. “Its leaves might get crunchy, which is a sign that it’s suffering from chronic dryness,” she adds.

Q: Which plants are best for large bedrooms?

Instead of fitting as many plants as possible into your sizable space, St. Holder recommends buying a few larger varieties like a bird-of-paradise, rubber tree, monstera, or even ones that trail such as a pothos and philodendron. And Horton shares that sentiment. “Think in multiples for larger bedrooms and stick with a small-medium-large approach,” she explains. “Your larger plant (5 feet tall or more) can easily green up a corner of your bedroom—a dracaena marginata tree is my favorite to place in a bedroom corner. A medium plant like a potted monstera deliciosa (2 to 3 feet tall) in a great floor planter can elevate the look in your bedroom in an instant. Lastly, a 4-inch pot of neon or marble queen pothos can tie everything together.”

The Last Word

While different varieties of flora have their own needs for care to consider, picking out the best plants for bedrooms can still be a fun process. Be honest about the level of care you’re willing to take on and how much space you have, and then enjoy the calm and comfort your new leafy roomies bring to your sleep sanctuary.