Do you ever stop to think about why it is that a lot of people have desk plants in their office? These verdant marvels may increase output in addition to providing aesthetic value and a welcome diversion from the monotony of the office. The Journal of Experimental Psychology: Applied published a study in 2014 that found a 15% improvement in productivity in working environments with desk plants. Even more recently, in 2023, researchers in the Netherlands found that having a desk plant increased participants' perceptions of privacy, comfort, and contentment with their work environment.
And these aren't the only ones; there is a plethora of research that backs up the idea that having office table plants around the office makes people happier. We can confidently state that these low-care desk plants provide a practical purpose beyond mere aesthetic enhancement.
Best office desk plants to get
Zebra Cactus
Those who love a little eccentricity will adore the Zebra Cactus. Its diminutive stature and distinctive striped design make it the cutest little office buddy. This low-maintenance succulent loves bright, indirect sunlight and needs very little watering. If you want to make a statement without making a big mess, it's a good option to consider. For people who have a tendency to overwater their plants, the Zebra Cactus is an excellent choice for a desk plant for the office because it does well in dry environments.
Money Plant
Most eco-conscious office workers choose money plants as desk plants for the office! It thrives in soil or water and doesn't need any upkeep or care. The name "devil's eye" has persisted due to the plant's resiliency. To propagate a money plant, cut the stem at an angle with at least two nodes and put it in water. In the practice of Feng Shui, the plant is thought to exude beneficial energy and vibrations.
Peace Lilly
The peace lily is an excellent option if you value aesthetics and are looking for some greenery to use as a background for your selfies at work. Although it is not a real lily, it looks very much like one because of the beautiful spathe (leaf) that encircles the bloom. Because it blooms so often, you can count on it to provide nonstop aesthetic pleasure, and it is a great choice for office table plants. Its showy appearance belies its very low maintenance requirements; all it needs is moderate light and consistent watering.
Rubber Plant
Contrary to what its name may imply, the baby rubber plant has no relation to the well-known rubber trees. The thick, waxy leaves that resemble its namesake are the inspiration for its name. This type typically grows no taller than a foot, making it ideal for adorning a small nook or cranny of your desk. In addition, the lustre is maintained by its thick, glossy leaves, and it is a great option for desk plants for the office! To keep it from burning, keep it out of direct sunshine, and water it cautiously; if the soil isn't totally dry, root rot can quickly occur.
Jade Plant
The Jade plant, which is sometimes called the "money tree," is a symbol of wealth and success. In addition to being lovely, the plant's round, fleshy leaves retain water, enabling it to thrive even in less-than-ideal environments. Although it can adjust to lower light conditions, it does best in strong light. Having a jade plant on your desk can do double duty: it will provide visual attractiveness to your workstation and motivate you to stay focused on your goals, thanks to its abundant symbolism. It is a great option for desk plants for the office!
Snake Plant
The snake plant, sometimes called mother-in-law's tongue, is a popular houseplant due to its attractive look and ability to filter the air. It can withstand a broad range of lighting conditions, and its long, upright leaves will give a dramatic flair to any workstation. Because of its resilience, this plant can go without watering for long periods of time, just when the soil becomes dry. The snake plant is a great option for increasing air quality, particularly in enclosed office areas, because it converts CO2 into oxygen at night.
Aloe Vera
The aloe vera plant is more than meets the eye; it serves a practical purpose and offers several advantages. A perfect choice for sunny windowsills, it flourishes in direct sunlight. The gel that is extracted from its leaves is well-known for its ability to soothe burns and skin irritations. This makes it an ideal treatment to have on hand for immediate relief during work breaks. Just like the others, it needs very little attention; in fact, you should only water it when the soil is totally dry. In addition to adding aesthetic value to your office, this plant also has practical uses in the form of natural skincare products, and a great option for plants for your work desk!