The 7 best plants to add to your workspace

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Before you plant yourself in your office chair, consider adding some plants to your workspace. Botanicals do so much more than add decoration; they can also freshen up the air and boost your productivity. Whether you have a well-lit corner in your apartment or a windowless nook, there’s a plant out there for you. Here are seven to know.

Aloe vera

If you’re looking for a plant that’s easy to care for, aloe vera is the way to go. Its long green leaves work as a filter, pulling toxins out of the air and keeping your workspace fresh. There are a number of succulent varieties, and hundreds of varietals, so there's one for you! It only needs water when the soil in the pot feels dry to the touch. Keep it in a well-lit area and it’ll thrive.

Jade

Jade plants don’t need much water, meaning they make the perfect plant for anyone who's forgetful or on the go. The deep jade color is an exotic addition to your space and will cheer you up when deadlines are getting you down. Keep it in bright light and allow the soil to get dry before watering.

ZZ plant

The ZZ plant is one of the hardiest around. It’s drought resistant and can thrive in any light. Whether you have a dimly lit cubicle or a window corner office, this is the plant for you. The green waxy leaves store water, so if you forget to water your ZZ plant before taking the weekend off, it’ll be fine when you get back to it on Monday.

Snake plant

Proof that not all things called "snake" are horrifying, this low-maintenance plant is perfect for that dark corner where nothing seems to grow. Snake plants grow tall and their multi-shaded leaves add a splash of beauty to any space. The long, stiff leaves store water, making this the perfect plant for digital nomads.

Anthurium

If you’re looking to add a splash of color to an otherwise drab space, go with the Anthurium. This plant prefers well-lit areas, but avoid keeping it in direct sunlight. The bright red, waxy, heart-shaped flowers can last eight weeks or more and will continue coming back all year, giving your office a flare of color for extra creative inspo.

Peace lily

With its beautiful green leaves and vibrant white flowers, you might assume that the peace lily is delicate. In fact, it is pretty tough. Peace lilies can grow in low-light areas and only need water once the soil is dry to the touch. These purifying plants pull toxins like trichloroethylene, benzene, and formaldehyde out of the air.

Parlor palm

The Parlor Palm is one of the most popular indoor plants around. It’s low-maintenance and slow growing, making it perfect for someone who isn’t particularly experienced — or lucky! — with plants. The long green leaves also work as an air purifier. Caring for your Parlor Palm is easy. They do best in low-light areas and only need water when the soil feels dry. Make sure to water it even less in the winter.

Geoff Gohlke is an avid writer of all things; from screenplays and short stories to blogs and web content. When he’s not plucking away at the keyboard, he’s tending to his vegetable garden or running through the Michigan backcountry he calls home.