Best plants for low-light offices
Every workspace benefits from a touch of greenery, from happier employees to productivity gains — and of course the stunning aesthetics. But creating an indoor jungle can seem out of reach for ground-floor offices and workplaces with little sunlight.
Natural light conditions have a huge impact on mental health and our ability to perform at work — meaning low-light environments are the spaces most in need of plants, and the boost to employee health and wellbeing they bring.
If you’re struggling to find greenery to brighten up the darkest corners, we’re here to help. Low light? No problem! We’ve put together a list of the best office plants for low light workplaces.
ZZ plant: the best for no light
You would think a native of drought-prone east Africa might be fussy about sunlight. Not the Zamioculcas zamiifolia. The hardy ZZ can tolerate natural light levels of pretty much zero — perfect for hallways with no windows.
With spear-shaped leaves, the ZZ’s dark green foliage adds an interesting design feature to shaded spaces. As well as their stunning looks, these plants boast impressive air purifying qualities to help you breathe a little easier at work.
Monstera: the best for that influencer aesthetic
If you want to bring cafe vibes into your workplace, Swiss cheese plants are the way to go. These popular houseplants can be found on Instagram feeds and in hipster cafes around the world. And — while they’re used to the spotlight — they won’t be fazed by low light.
The Monstera’s beautiful leaves are filled with holes — adapted to capture the specks of light that filter down through the canopy of its rainforest home. Use these attractive plants to divide rooms and break up spaces between desks.
Kentia palm: the best for making a statement
One look at the Howea forsteriana’s elegant fronds and you’ll be transported to a tropical paradise: think sun-drenched beaches and white sands. These palms thrive in low to medium light — so they’ll need a bit of brightness.
As one of the taller indoor plants that tolerate low light, Kentia palms make a great statement piece. Place them at the end of a desk to break up office space. Or use them to line a room, adding a touch of style to your workplace.
Heartleaf philodendron: the best for cascading green
Add a splash of color to dull offices with the lovely philodendron scandens. Its heart-shaped leaves are patterned in shades of green and yellow, depending on the variety. Heartleaf philodendrons do best in low to medium natural light conditions.
These trailing plants are perfect for cascading and training along surfaces. Set them on shaded shelves or countertops with little light to add some eye-level greenery to your workplace.
Pothos trebie: the best for air quality
Like philodendrons, the pothos trebie (or satin pothos) is a cascading plant. Native to forested areas of Southeast Asia, these pothos prefer indirect sunlight — but they can grow in low to medium light conditions.
With silky dark-green leaves that are speckled in silver, the gorgeous satin pothos is sure to catch attention. Set them on shelves or dividers to brighten up the space. And if you’re still having trouble selecting office plants for low light, Plantclub is here to help.
Plantclub.io provides you and your colleagues with the benefits of plants, wherever you work. Rent office plants and transform your space into a green oasis, with flexible monthly membership options to suit your size. Diversify your employee perks with a dedicated company store, where you can give green gifts and your team can buy plants for their home office. Book a time to chat with us today.
Written by Lily Pollock
