Which plants require the highest humidity levels?

Published: September 04, 2025
Updated: September 04, 2025

Tropical plants prefer fairly high humidity levels of about 60-80% to replicate their origins in the rainforest. Maidenhair ferns and similar species will quickly deteriorate in dry air. Their thin leaves will lose moisture quickly when humidity levels are low. I have designated areas in my home for these humidity-loving plants.

These plants developed in humid jungle understories, characterized by continuous moisture and high humidity. High/low humidity will cause your plants' leaves to curl and will leave brown edges. Their roots are also adapted to absorb atmospheric water through specialized cells. If you can replicate your plant's natural environment, it will experience less stress and will thrive! Always research the natural habitat of each species to care for the plant optimally.

Ferns

  • Examples: Maidenhair, Boston, bird's nest
  • Need 70-80% constant humidity
  • Require indirect light and moist soil
  • Warning: Crisp rapidly below 50%

Orchids & Anthuriums

  • Examples: Phalaenopsis, flamingo flower
  • Thrive at 60-70% humidity
  • Need aerial root moisture
  • Warning: Bud drop in dry air

Calatheas & Prayer Plants

  • Examples: Rattlesnake, medallion varieties
  • Require 65-75% humidity
  • Sensitive to tap water minerals
  • Warning: Leaf curling signals distress
Humidity Plant Care Guide
Plant TypeFernsIdeal Humidity
70-80%
Special CareGroup with pebble trays, avoid direct sun
Plant TypeOrchidsIdeal Humidity
60-70%
Special CareMist aerial roots daily, use bark medium
Plant TypeCalatheasIdeal Humidity
65-75%
Special CareDistilled water only, humidifier essential
Plant TypePeace LiliesIdeal Humidity
50-60%
Special CareTolerate lower humidity, flag droops when thirsty
Minimum humidity levels for survival in bold

Maintain humidity in plant groups by placing humidifiers near the plants. Bathrooms can provide the moisture and steam that ferns need. Terrariums are also a suitable option for small specimens. It is a good idea to combine pebble trays with clustering the plants together. With orchids, I keep the plants on humidity trays under grow lights. If possible, use hygrometers to measure humidity and place them at the level of the foliage.

Avoid typical errors, such as over-misting and mildew. Drainage is essential, but adding humidity is key. Be sure to rotate plants weekly to avoid uneven growth. Peace lilies are a great, forgiving starter plant, and then you can move on to more picky plants like calatheas. Regardless of what's in your rainforest oasis, with a little dedication, it will thrive.

Read the full article: 10 Essential Tips for Indoor Plant Humidity

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