Bedroom plants chosen for the quieter, shadier conditions of most bedrooms: kentia and parlour palms, trailing pothos, dracaena and philodendron that cope with low light and occasional watering. Free tracked delivery across Ireland and 24 more EU countries.
What are the best plants for a bedroom?
The best bedroom plants tolerate low light, need little attention and keep a tidy shape. Kentia palm (Howea forsteriana) and parlour palm (Chamaedorea elegans) top the list: both handle shade, both are listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA, and their soft fronds give a calmer-feeling room you mostly use at the start and end of the day. Pothos, Dracaena 'Compacta' and philodendron are just as forgiving, but keep them out of reach of pets.
| Plant | Light | Best spot | Pet-safe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentia palm (Howea forsteriana) | Low to bright indirect | Floor corner | Yes |
| Parlour palm (Chamaedorea elegans) | Low to medium | Bedside table or shelf | Yes |
| Pothos (Epipremnum / Scindapsus) | Low to medium | Trailing from a shelf | No |
| Dragon tree (Dracaena fragrans 'Compacta') | Low to medium | Floor corner | No |
| Heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum 'Brasil') | Medium indirect | Shelf or dresser | No |
| Philodendron 'Green Princess' (Philodendron) | Medium indirect | Windowsill | No |
Where to put plants in a bedroom
Put plants somewhere you will actually see them and remember to water them: a windowsill, a corner beside the wardrobe or a bedside table. North-facing windows suit palms, pothos and dracaena well. Keep plants away from radiators, which dry the soil and leaves quickly, and stand each pot on a saucer or drip tray to protect furniture. Bedrooms are often cooler than living rooms, so plants use less water; check the top few centimetres of compost before watering rather than following a fixed schedule.
Frequently asked questions
What plant is good for a dark bedroom?
Kentia palm, parlour palm, Dracaena 'Compacta' and pothos all tolerate low light. They grow more slowly in shade but stay healthy if you water sparingly.
Which bedroom plants are safe for cats?
Kentia and parlour palms are listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. Pothos, dracaena and philodendron are not, so choose a palm if you have a curious pet.
Is it OK to keep plants in your bedroom?
Yes. Pick plants that suit the light in the room and that you will look after; a healthy plant that suits its spot needs very little from you.
Keep exploring: low light plants, palm plants and pet-safe plants.