The best plants for office productivity (and how best to care for them!)
Bringing plants into your workspace isn’t just about adding a touch of greenery—it’s about creating a calmer, healthier, and more inspiring environment. Studies have shown that introducing plants into ordinarily sparse office environments can reduce stress, improve air quality and increase productivity by 15%.
One of the main benefits of a green workspace is its impact on stress - adorning any office with plants isn't just visually pleasing; “Plants tap into our natural biophilia—the instinctive connection humans have with nature. Even a small desk plant can lift your mood and create a more inviting workspace” said Bloom & Wild’s plant expert, Keira Kay.
The best plants for productivity and office happiness
Whether you’re looking for low-maintenance desk plants or statement greenery for meeting rooms, we’ve got you covered. Here’s our guide to the best plants for your workplace, plus easy care tips to keep them thriving.
Best Plants for Your Desk
Chinese Money Plant (Pilea Peperomioides)
A compact and charming plant that’s perfect for small spaces.
Why you’ll love it: Said to bring good fortune (and who doesn’t want that at work?).
Care tips: Thrives in bright, indirect light and needs watering once a week.
Best spot: Desktops, windowsills, or small office shelves.
More care tips: Chinese Money Plant Guide
Snake Plant (Sansevieria) – The Ultimate Low-Maintenance Plant
If you’re a self-proclaimed plant killer, this one’s for you.
Why you’ll love it: NASA-approved air purifier that thrives on neglect.
Care tips: Water every 2-3 weeks and keep in bright light, but will still thrive in low-medium light..
Best spot: Office desks, low-light corners, or near electronics.
More care tips: Snake Plant Guide
Best Plants for Meeting Rooms & Reception Areas
Monstera Deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant) – A Statement Piece
A bold, tropical plant that makes an impact.
Why you’ll love it: Its dramatic leaves add instant style.
Care tips: Loves bright, indirect light and needs watering once a week.
Best spot: Meeting rooms, reception areas, or open-plan offices.
More care tips: Monstera Care Guide
Rubber Plant (Ficus Elastica) – A Touch of Elegance
A sleek, stylish plant that’s as easy to care for as it is beautiful.
Why you’ll love it: Air-purifying and mood-boosting.
Care tips: Keep in bright, indirect light and water when the topsoil feels dry.
Best spot: Reception areas, meeting rooms, or larger office spaces.
More care tips: Rubber Plant Guide
Best Plants for Air Purification
Golden Pothos (Devil’s Ivy) – The Hard-to-Kill Vine
A trailing beauty that’s perfect for shelves or hanging baskets.
Why you’ll love it: Cleans the air and thrives in almost any light.
Care tips: Water once a week and let the soil dry out between waterings.
Best spot: Shelves, hanging baskets, or cabinet tops.
More care tips: Golden Pothos Guide
Spider Plant – The Classic Air Purifier
A retro favourite that’s making a comeback.
Why you’ll love it: Removes toxins and produces baby plants you can share.
Care tips: Water once a week and keep in bright, indirect light.
Best spot: Hanging baskets, elevated surfaces, or desk edges.
More care tips: Spider Plant Guide
Best Plants for Stress Relief
Lavender – A Natural Relaxer
Perfect for creating a calming atmosphere in high-stress areas.
Why you’ll love it: Soothing scent that helps with stress and anxiety.
Care tips: Needs plenty of sunlight and watering once a week.
Best spot: Near quiet work areas or break rooms.
Rosemary – The Productivity Booster
A fragrant herb that’s great for focus.
Why you’ll love it: Has been said to improve memory and concentration.
Care tips: Loves bright light and needs watering when the soil is dry.
Best spot: Breakout spaces or near windows.
Office Plant Care Tips
Keep Your Plants Happy with These Simple Tips:
Water wisely – Overwatering is the #1 killer of office plants. Check the soil before watering.
Rotate your plants – This helps them grow evenly. Dust the leaves – A quick wipe keeps them looking fresh and helps them absorb light.
Group plants together – This helps maintain humidity, especially over the weekend.
Keep them away from air vents – Sudden temperature changes can stress them out.
Why Office Plants Are a Must-Have
Beyond looking great, office plants:
Reduce stress and create a more relaxing workspace.
Boost productivity by improving focus and creativity.
Improve air quality by filtering out toxins.
Make your office feel more inviting and homely.
Plants don’t just brighten a space—they help regulate humidity, reduce airborne toxins, and even absorb background noise. A well-placed Monstera or Rubber Plant can transform an office from sterile to soothing." – Keira Kay
The key to happy office plants? Choose ones that match your space and lifestyle. If you’re new to plant care, start with low-maintenance options like the Snake Plant or Pothos, and build your indoor jungle from there. For more plant care tips, visit our Plant Care Guides.
