Plants in the office can be a fun and economical way to spruce up your business, but what are the best indoor office plants for the modern workspace? When you're looking for plants that do well in an office, consider plants that are aesthetically pleasing, low-maintenance and long-living.
The Benefits of Plants in the Workplace
Indoor plants can soften a harsh, more sterile work environment, adding color and a welcoming feel, Houston Chronicle suggests. They add moisture to the air and reduce the noise levels. They release oxygen and absorb pollutants, helping keep the air cleaner, NBC News notes. Just the aesthetics of plants alone can decrease depression, stress and anxiety at work.
Before getting plants for the office, survey your employees to see if there's anything they're allergic to. And if your business has office pets, make sure you don't have plants that are toxic to them.
1. African Violet
The African violet is a beautifully colored flower that adds a lot of warmth and energy. The Spruce suggests this flower because it thrives in the average humidity and temperatures of a typical office. It needs light to bloom, but a fluorescent lamp will suffice, and it's small enough to fit in a cubicle space. The ASPCA lists it as non-toxic.
2. Spider Plant
The spider plant is a popular choice. It's easy to grow and its green-and-white striped leaves are attractive. NBC News recommends this plant because it only needs watering about once a week, and it often sprouts "baby plants" that you can grow in new pots. The ASPCA lists it as nontoxic to dogs and cats, but don't let a pet eat it excessively.
3. Cactus
A cactus is a great beginner's office plant. It's hardy and does fine on weekends or vacations without watering, NBC News says. Many produce flowers and you can get different varieties for a creative look. If you have office pets, research the toxicities first.
4. ZZ Plant
The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is an increasingly popular office choice, New York Magazine notes. It's a hardy plant that even thrives in a cubicle. It doesn't need direct sunlight or a lot of water, and it grows slowly. In fact, it does fine under fluorescent bulbs, The Spruce notes. The downside to this plant is every part of it is toxic. So be careful if children or pets are in the office.
5. Oxalis
The Oxalis comes in different colors, with deep purple being a favorite choice. They do well in low humidity and should be put near a window for the best color, The Spruce suggests. Its leaves fold up at night, which can be a fun reminder to go home. This one might be toxic to pets.
6. Lucky Bamboo
The Lucky bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana) doesn't require much light. Put it in a vase with some pebbles and it'll do great. But take care and water it with bottled water, since it's sensitive to chlorine. You can even train the stems to grow in fun shapes, The Spruce notes. Sadly, this one can be mildly toxic to pets.
7. Marimo Moss Balls
For a unique looking plant, turn to the Marino Moss Balls. It's actually an algae colony, so it grows really easily, New York Magazine reports. It just needs to be kept submerged in a vase or aquarium of water to grow.
8. Swiss Cheese Plant
The Swiss Cheese Plant grows fast and is inexpensive, but it may need to be pruned frequently. As it ages, its large, heart-shaped leaves develop holes, giving it a Swiss cheese appearance, Gardening Know How notes. It can grow in partial shade or full sun, but its soil should be kept moist and well-drained. This plant can grow pretty tall, so it does best in a large room like a conference room or large office, hallway or a business foyer, House Plants Expert suggests. Sadly, this plant can be toxic to dogs or cats, according to the ASPCA.
For the best indoor office plants that are easy to grow, try any of the suggestions above. These are plants that do well in an office, so you'll find success on your first try. They're a great way to add warmth and positivity to the workplace atmosphere.