Bringing greenery into your office isn’t just a decor trend—it’s a science-backed strategy for improving air quality, reducing stress, and boosting creativity. Studies have shown that plants in workspaces can enhance focus, increase job satisfaction, and even filter indoor pollutants. But not all plants thrive under fluorescent bulbs or limited natural light. That’s where low-maintenance, low-light-tolerant varieties come in.
Whether you work in a cozy home office or a shared studio space, these houseplants will thrive without demanding much from you. Plus, we’ll show you where to source them—from stylish plant boutiques to trusted office retailers.
- Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Often dubbed the “cubicle plant,” pothos is a favorite for office dwellers because of its tolerance for low light and irregular watering.
Why it’s great:
- Grows in hanging baskets or trailing on shelves
- Can survive fluorescent lighting
- Filters pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene
You can find starter pothos plants at retailers like The Sill, Home Depot, or Trader Joe’s. For stylish planters, explore design-forward options at Shoplands or at CB2 and Anthropologie.
- ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is virtually indestructible and ideal for beginners. Its glossy, dark green leaves make it a visually striking addition to any desk or corner shelf.
Why it’s great:
- Survives with infrequent watering
- Tolerates low or indirect light
- Thrives in both warm and dry environments
Find this plant online from Bloomscape or local nurseries. Pair it with minimalist ceramic pots available at West Elm, RetailMinds or Wayfair for a clean, modern look.
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Also known as the “mother-in-law’s tongue,” the snake plant is one of the most resilient houseplants around.
Why it’s great:
- Requires very little light
- Filters out toxins like nitrogen dioxide and xylene
- Grows upright, saving space on smaller desks
It’s widely available at major retailers like Lowe’s, IKEA, or through boutique sellers like Plants.com. Add a woven basket from Target or RetailMinds for a boho-inspired finish.
- Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
For those wanting a plant with a little more flair, the peace lily offers lush leaves and occasional white flowers.
Why it’s great:
- Adapts well to indoor lighting
- Naturally cleans the air
- Signals its need for water by drooping (helpful for forgetful plant parents)
Peace lilies are commonly stocked at Home Depot, Trader Joe’s, or Whole Foods. For office-friendly pots, shop at Staples or curated home office collections at Shoplands.
- Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
With striped leaves and a spiky silhouette, the spider plant adds visual interest to a room without demanding much care.
Why it’s great:
- Thrives in bright, indirect or artificial light
- Propagates easily, making it a giftable plant
- Removes airborne toxins like carbon monoxide and formaldehyde
Look for spider plants at Ace Hardware, Office Depot & OfficeMax, or local greenhouses. Display them in hanging baskets or on a wall shelf near your desk.
- Philodendron
A close cousin to pothos, philodendrons come in a variety of sizes and shapes, all with lush green leaves perfect for softening the lines of your workspace.
Why it’s great:
- Adapts to artificial lighting
- Requires minimal care
- Works well on bookshelves or filing cabinets
Pair a philodendron with office decor from Book Boulevard, or find plant-friendly accessories at Crate & Barrel, World Market, or Target.
- Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
With variegated leaves and a strong resistance to low light, Chinese evergreens are perfect for adding a splash of color.
Why it’s great:
- Tolerates low humidity and minimal sun
- Comes in several color varieties
- Air-purifying and easy to grow
Available at Lowe’s, World Market, or Amazon. For modern planters, browse options from AllModern, RetailMinds, or Staples using Fluz.
Bonus Tip: Choosing the Right Planter
While the plant itself is important, so is its presentation. Choose pots that complement your workspace style—whether you prefer matte ceramic, minimalist metal, or woven textures.
Great places to shop:
- West Elm for mid-century modern
- Target or CB2 for affordable elegance
- RetailMinds or Shoplands for workspace-friendly decor
- Walmart for budget-friendly options
Adding houseplants to your office doesn’t just make your space look good—it also creates a more grounded, breathable environment for focus and flow. With low-maintenance picks like pothos, snake plants, and ZZ plants, you can turn any workspace into a green retreat. Whether you shop at national retailers, independent plant shops, or brands available on Fluz, the key is to choose greenery that suits your space and schedule.
Your workspace can be productive and peaceful—and a few plants might be just what it needs to thrive.
