A dull office can drain energy, but adding plants can transform the space instantly. More than just decoration, plants improve air quality, reduce stress, and create a more inviting work environment. Research shows they can even boost productivity and focus.
The problem? Busy offices aren’t ideal for plant care, irregular watering, low light, and fluctuating temperatures make upkeep difficult. That’s why choosing the right plants matters.
This article covers ten low maintenance office plants that thrive with minimal attention. Whether your office has harsh lighting or forgetful employees, these resilient plants will bring greenery and freshness without the hassle.
Top 10 Low Maintenance Plants for Office Spaces
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), founded in 1970, is a global leader in container shipping, operating a fleet of over 500 vessels and serving 270 ports worldwide. The company has its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, and maintains a significant presence in the UK, with four office buildings located in Ipswich, Suffolk.
For more than two decades, MSC has been a valued client of Aztec Plants. This long-standing partnership has contributed to creating vibrant and welcoming workspaces for MSC employees and visitors alike.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
To optimise the functionality of the open-plan office space, Aztec installed barrier planters, effectively creating natural divisions between work areas. These planters were filled with Guzmanias, a plant species known for its vibrant yellow flowers, aligning with MSC’s branding and adding a touch of nature to the indoor environment.
This collaboration between MSC and Aztec Plants exemplifies how thoughtful integration of plant life into office spaces can enhance aesthetics, promote employee well-being, and reinforce corporate branding.
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is a popular choice for offices due to its tolerance for neglect. Its glossy, deep green leaves add a stylish touch to any workspace, and it can survive in low light and dry conditions.
Care Tips: Thrives in low to moderate indirect light but can tolerate shade. Water only when the soil is completely dry about once every two to three weeks. Dust the leaves occasionally to keep them looking fresh.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is a fast growing vine with heart shaped leaves that trail beautifully from shelves or hanging pots. It adapts well to different light conditions and requires very little maintenance.
Care Tips: Grows best in moderate, indirect light but can survive in low light. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Trim occasionally to prevent excessive growth and promote bushiness.
4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The spider plant is one of the easiest plants to grow indoors. It produces long, arching leaves and small baby plants that can be repotted or left to dangle for a decorative effect. It is also excellent at removing indoor air pollutants.
Care Tips: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels. Water lightly once a week, ensuring the soil dries out between waterings. Remove any brown leaf tips to keep it looking fresh.
5. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The peace lily is a beautiful plant with dark green leaves and occasional white flowers. It helps improve indoor air quality and thrives in low light conditions, making it perfect for office spaces.
Care Tips: Keep in low to medium indirect light. Water once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Wipe leaves regularly to prevent dust buildup.
6. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)
Aloe vera is a compact succulent with thick, fleshy leaves that store water. It is known for its air purifying qualities and medicinal benefits, as the gel inside its leaves can be used for skin irritation or burns.
Care Tips: Requires bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Water sparingly every two to three weeks allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
7. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Lucky bamboo is an attractive and symbolic plant that can grow in either water or soil. It requires very little attention and is believed to bring good luck and positive energy to a workspace.
Care Tips: Thrives in low to moderate indirect light. If grown in water, change the water every two weeks. If planted in soil, keep it lightly moist but not soggy. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
8. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
True to its name, the cast iron plant is one of the toughest indoor plants. It can withstand neglect, low light, and fluctuating temperatures, making it perfect for offices with less than ideal growing conditions.
Care Tips: Prefers low to moderate indirect light but can survive in dimly lit areas. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Dust the leaves occasionally to maintain their glossy appearance.
9. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
The rubber plant features large, glossy leaves that add a bold, modern touch to any office. It is adaptable to different light conditions and does not require frequent watering, making it a great low maintenance choice.
Care Tips: Grows best in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels. Water when the top few inches of soil feel dry. Clean leaves regularly to remove dust and maintain their shine.
10. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
The Chinese evergreen is a hardy, slow growing plant that comes in a variety of attractive leaf patterns. It tolerates low light and infrequent watering, making it one of the easiest plants to care for in an office.
Care Tips: Thrives in low to moderate indirect light. Water when the soil starts to dry out, usually every 10 14 days. Avoid cold drafts and extreme temperature changes.
These ten plants offer the perfect balance of beauty and resilience, making them ideal for office spaces. With minimal effort, they can transform a workspace into a greener, healthier, and more inviting environment.
Conclusion
Adding low maintenance plants to an office creates a healthier and more inviting workspace. These plants improve air quality by filtering out pollutants, help reduce stress, and contribute to a more relaxed and productive environment. Studies suggest that workplaces with greenery can boost focus and overall well being.
The best part is that these plants require minimal care, making them ideal for busy offices. With little effort, they can thrive in low light, tolerate irregular watering, and enhance office aesthetics. Introducing greenery to the workplace is a simple yet effective way to create a more pleasant and inspiring atmosphere.