21 Best Plants For An Office With No Windows | No Sun Desk Plants
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Are you looking for the best plants for your windowless office?
If you work in a no-sun at home or at your job without natural light, it can be challenging to find plants that can survive and thrive. But fear not!
In this blog post, I'll provide you with a list of the best plants for a windowless office.
So, whether you work in a closet or a basement, you can still enjoy the benefits of having a little greenery in your workspace.
At A Glance: The Best Plants for a Windowless Office
Short on time? Here’s a condensed list of the most popular plants that thrive in low-light conditions and that are easy to take care of.
TOP PICK! Air Plant - No soil required, absorbs nutrients and moisture through its leaves.
Snake Plant - Dark green, upright leaves with yellow edges. Low maintenance, excellent air purifier.
Money Tree - Delicate, braided stems with rounded leaves. Brings good luck and prosperity, easy to grow.
Lady Palm - Tall, thin stems with lush, fan-shaped leaves. Elegant and graceful, thrives in low light.
Pothos - Trailing vine with variegated, heart-shaped leaves. Easy to grow, great for beginners.
Peace Lily - Dark green leaves with white, spoon-shaped flowers. Beautiful flowers, great air purifier.
Chinese Evergreen - Dark green leaves with silver markings. Tolerates low light and neglect, easy to care for.
Bird's Nest Fern - Deep green leaves that curve inward. Attractive foliage, great for hanging baskets.
Rubber Tree Plant - Large, shiny leaves with burgundy undersides. Large and dramatic, air purifying.
Monstera - Large, perforated leaves on long stems. Iconic and trendy, easy to care for.
Prayer Plant - Striking, patterned leaves that fold up at night. Unique foliage, easy to care for.
ZZ Plant - Thick, waxy leaves on upright stems. Tolerates low light and neglect, air purifying.
Philodendron - Trailing vine with heart-shaped leaves. Fast-growing, great for hanging baskets.
Spider Plant - Long, narrow leaves with "spiderettes" on long stems. Easy to grow, great for beginners.
Bromeliad - Colorful, spiky foliage with bright flowers. Tropical and easy to care for.
Arrowhead Plant - Trailing vine with arrow-shaped leaves. Easy to care for, great for hanging baskets.
Weeping Fig Tree - Tall, woody stems with lush, dark green leaves. Classic indoor tree, needs bright, indirect light.
Cast Iron Plant - Sturdy, dark green leaves on upright stems. Tolerates low light and neglect, reliable.
Aloe Vera - Thick, spiky leaves with healing properties. Succulent, easy to care for.
Dumb Cane - Large, striking leaves with white or yellow markings. Needs bright, indirect light.
Dragon Tree - Spiky leaves with a red tint, easy to care for.
Benefits of Plants in a Windowless Office
Adding plants to your workspace can offer numerous benefits, including:
Improved air quality: Plants help purify the air by removing harmful toxins and releasing oxygen. They can also increase humidity levels, which can be especially beneficial in dry indoor environments.
office plants have loads of benefits
Reduced stress and increased productivity: Studies have shown that the presence of plants in an office can reduce stress levels, increase focus and concentration, and even boost productivity. Plants can also help create a sense of calm and well-being, which can lead to a more positive work environment.
Enhanced aesthetic appeal: Plants can add a touch of beauty and elegance to any space, including a windowless office. They come in a variety of colors and shapes, allowing you to choose the perfect plant to match your style and decor.
The Best Plants For a Windowless Office: A More Detailed Look
Here’s a more detailed look at each of the plants I’ve listed above, including their country of origin and appearance, with photos for you to get a better idea of what you’ll be growing. They are ordered by popularity!
Air Plant
The Air Plant, also known as Tillandsia, is a unique houseplant that can thrive in a windowless office. Unlike most plants, the Air Plant does not require soil to grow and can absorb nutrients and moisture from the air.
This plant is native to South and Central America and comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. And since they do not require soil, they can be mounted on a variety of surfaces, such as driftwood or stones.
To care for your Air Plant, it's essential to mist it regularly with water, as the plant needs moisture to survive. You can also soak the plant in water for a few hours once a week to give it a thorough watering.
Snake Plant
The Snake Plant, also known as Sansevieria, is a popular houseplant that can thrive in a windowless office. This plant is native to West Africa and has long, stiff leaves that grow upright. The leaves of the plant are typically green, but some varieties may have yellow or white stripes.
One of the unique features of the Snake Plant is its ability to remove toxins from the air. Additionally, the plant can be used in Feng Shui to promote positive energy in a space.
Money Tree
The Money Tree Plant, also known as Pachira aquatica, is native to Central and South America and has a braided trunk and large, green leaves that can grow up to 12 inches long. The Money Tree is known for its unique appearance and symbolism of good fortune and prosperity.
Lady Palm
The Lady Palm plant has upright fronds with a fan-like appearance, making it an attractive addition to your workspace.
Lady Palms can grow up to 6-8 feet in height, so it's important to choose a suitable container that will accommodate their size.
Pothos
The Pothos, also known as Devil's Ivy, is native to the Solomon Islands and has heart-shaped leaves with a trailing growth habit and a variety of patterns and colors, making it an attractive addition to your workspace.
Peace Lily
The Peace Lily has dark green leaves and white flowers that bloom periodically. It is native to tropical regions of the Americas and its leaves that can grow up to 1 foot long. The Peace Lily is known for its beautiful white flowers and air-purifying qualities.
Chinese Evergreen
The Chinese Evergreen plant has lush, green leaves with unique patterns, making it a visually appealing addition to your workspace.
Bird's Nest Fern
The Bird's Nest Fern's unique appearance, with wide, flat fronds growing in a circular pattern, resembles a bird's nest, making it an interesting and attractive addition to your workspace.
To care for your Bird's Nest Fern, water it when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize your plant once every three to four months during the growing season, using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Rubber Tree Plant
The Rubber Tree Plant, also known as Ficus elastica, is a popular houseplant that has become a staple in many homes and offices. This plant is native to Southeast Asia and is known for its large, glossy leaves that can reach up to a foot long.
One of the unique features of the Rubber Tree Plant is its ability to grow into a tall, tree-like shape. With proper care, these plants can grow up to 8 feet tall, making them an impressive addition to any room.
Monstera
The Monstera, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant has large, glossy leaves with unique perforations that can grow up to 2 feet long. Native to tropical regions of Mexico and Central America, the Monstera is known for its unique foliage and ability to grow in low light conditions.
Prayer Plant
The Prayer Plant, also known as Maranta leuconeura, is a popular houseplant that can thrive in a windowless office. The plant is native to the tropical forests of Brazil, and its name comes from the way the leaves fold up at night, resembling praying hands.
It is a popular houseplant because of its unique and visually striking appearance. The leaves of the plant also move in response to light, following the sun during the day.
ZZ Plant
The ZZ Plant, also known as Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is a popular houseplant that can thrive in a windowless office. This plant is native to Eastern Africa and has waxy, dark green leaves that are shiny and smooth. The ZZ Plant is known for its ability to survive in low light and with minimal watering, making it a great option for busy individuals.
One of the unique features of the ZZ Plant is its ability to store water in its roots and rhizomes, allowing it to survive in low water conditions. The plant is also known for its air-purifying qualities, removing toxins such as benzene and toluene from the air.
Philodendron
The Philodendron is a popular houseplant that can be a great choice for a windowless office. It has heart-shaped leaves with a glossy sheen and a trailing growth habit, making it an attractive addition to your workspace.
One thing to keep in mind when caring for a Philodendron plant is that it can grow quite large, with some varieties reaching up to 10 feet in length. Regular pruning can help keep the plant at a manageable size and promote healthy growth.
Spider Plant
The Spider Plant, also known as Chlorophytum comosum, is a popular houseplant that can thrive in a windowless office. This plant is native to South Africa and has long, thin leaves that arch out from the center of the plant like spider legs. The leaves of the plant are typically green, but some varieties may have white or yellow stripes.
One of the unique features of the Spider Plant is its ability to produce baby plants, or "spiderettes," that can be easily propagated and grown into new plants. These baby plants can be left attached to the mother plant or separated and replanted in their own pots.
Bromliad
The Bromeliad plant comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, from small and delicate to large and dramatic, making it a versatile and eye-catching addition to your workspace.
One of the unique features of the Bromeliad plant is its colorful leaves and its ability to bloom in low light conditions.
Arrowhead Plant
The Arrowhead Plant, also known as the Syngonium plant, has arrow-shaped leaves that come in various colors, including green, white, and pink, making it a colorful addition to your workspace.
Arrowhead plants are low-maintenance and easy to care for, making them ideal for those who are new to plant care. They are tolerant of low light conditions, making them suitable for a windowless office.
Weeping Fig Tree
The Weeping Fig Tree, also known as Ficus benjamina is native to Southeast Asia and has glossy, green leaves that are oval-shaped and pointed at the end. The tree-like shape of the Weeping Fig Tree can add a touch of elegance to any space.
One of the unique features of the Weeping Fig Tree is its ability to adapt to different environments. The tree can be pruned to maintain a desired shape and size, making it a versatile plant for any space. Additionally, the plant can be used in Feng Shui to promote positive energy in a space.
Cast Iron Plant
The Cast Iron Plant, also known as Aspidistra elatior, is a popular houseplant that can thrive in a windowless office. This plant is native to Japan and Taiwan and has dark green, shiny leaves that can grow up to 2 feet long.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is an ideal plant for a windowless office as it can tolerate low light conditions and still thrive. It is a succulent plant that stores water in its leaves, which makes it drought-tolerant and low maintenance.
The aloe vera plant has a unique appearance, with its thick and fleshy leaves growing in a rosette pattern. It is a popular choice for offices as it is said to purify the air, making the environment more comfortable to work in.
Dumb Cane
The Dumb Cane, also known as Dieffenbachia is native to tropical regions of Central and South America and has large, variegated leaves that can grow up to 2 feet long.
Parlor Palm
The Parlor Palm, also known as Chamaedorea elegans, is a popular houseplant that can thrive in a windowless office. It has lush, green fronds with a delicate appearance, making it an attractive addition to your workspace.
Peperomia
The Peperomia is a popular houseplant that can be a great choice for a windowless office. It has thick, fleshy leaves with a variety of textures and patterns, making it an attractive addition to your workspace.
Dragon Tree
The Dragon Tree has long, slender leaves with a reddish-purple edge, making it a visually appealing addition to your workspace. This plant is native to Madagascar and is known for its hardiness and ability to survive in low light conditions.
How to Care For Plants in Low Light Environments
The above plants are suitable for a windowless offices because they can tolerate low light conditions and require minimal care. However, they still need some light, so placing them near artificial light sources can be beneficial.
To care for your plants, water them when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Fertilize your plant once every two to three months during the growing season, using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
| Plant Name | Description | Maintenance | Light | Air Purifying |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Plant | No soil, absorbs moisture through leaves. | Low | Indirect | Yes |
| Snake Plant | Upright, yellow-edged leaves. | Low | Low to bright | Yes |
| Money Tree | Braided stems with rounded leaves. | Low | Bright, indirect | No |
| Lady Palm | Thin stems with fan-shaped leaves. | Low | Low to bright | Yes |
| Pothos | Trailing vine, variegated heart-shaped leaves. | Low | Low to bright | Yes |
| Peace Lily | Dark leaves, white spoon-shaped flowers. | Low | Low to bright | Yes |
| Chinese Evergreen | Dark leaves with silver markings. | Low | Low to bright | Yes |
| Bird's Nest Fern | Deep green leaves that curve inward. | Low | Low to bright | Yes |
| Rubber Tree Plant | Large, shiny leaves with burgundy undersides. | Low | Bright, indirect | Yes |
| Monstera | Large, perforated leaves on long stems. | Low | Bright, indirect | No |
| Prayer Plant | Striking, patterned leaves that fold up at night. | Low | Low to bright | Yes |
| ZZ Plant | Thick, waxy leaves on upright stems. | Low | Low to bright | Yes |
| Philodendron | Trailing vine with heart-shaped leaves. | Low | Low to bright | Yes |
| Spider Plant | Long leaves with "spiderettes" on stems. | Low | Bright, indirect | Yes |
| Bromeliad | Colorful, spiky foliage with bright flowers. | Low | Bright, indirect | Yes |
| Arrowhead Plant | Trailing vine with arrow-shaped leaves. | Low | Low to bright | Yes |
| Weeping Fig Tree | Woody stems with lush, dark green leaves. | Medium | Bright, indirect | No |
| Cast Iron Plant | Sturdy, dark green leaves on upright stems. | Low | Low to bright | Yes |
| Aloe Vera | Thick, spiky leaves with healing properties. | Low | Bright, indirect | No |
Tips for Caring for Plants in A Windowless Office
Caring for plants in a windowless office requires special attention to their watering and fertilization needs.
Watering and fertilization: It's important not to overwater plants, as they can develop root rot in the low light conditions. To ensure proper hydration, water the plants only when the top inch of soil is dry. Fertilize the plants regularly with a balanced fertilizer to provide them with the nutrients they need to thrive.
some plants can still thrive in a windowless office
Factors to consider when selecting plants for a low light office
When selecting plants for a windowless office, it's important to consider several factors to ensure that the plants thrive in such conditions.
Temperature and humidity levels: Some plants prefer warmer temperatures and higher humidity levels, while others can tolerate cooler and drier conditions.
Size and shape of the plants: Opt for plants that can fit comfortably in the available space, and choose shapes that complement the office decor.
Maintenance requirements: Choose plants that are easy to care for and don't require frequent watering or attention. If the office is especially busy, consider plants that can tolerate some neglect.
Artificial lighting and propagation: In a windowless office, it may be necessary to provide artificial lighting to supplement natural light. Additionally, some plants can be propagated easily, allowing for the creation of new plants without the need to purchase new ones.
Toxicity and allergies: Avoid plants that may be toxic to pets or people, and consider the potential for allergies when selecting plants for a shared space.
Cost: There are many affordable options for low light plants, such as spider plants, pothos, and ZZ plants.
Cleaning and pruning: Dust can accumulate on the leaves, hindering their ability to photosynthesize, so wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth periodically. Prune the plants as necessary to keep them healthy and prevent them from becoming too large for the space.
Artificial light: Providing artificial light is essential in a windowless office. LED grow lights can supplement natural light and provide the plants with the light they need to thrive. Be sure to position the lights so that they cover all the plants evenly.
Temperature and humidity: Keep the office temperature between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit and the humidity level between 30 and 60 percent. Use a hygrometer to measure the humidity level and a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
By following these tips for caring for plants in a windowless office, you can ensure that your plants stay healthy and vibrant, bringing life and beauty to your workspace
Q: What are some low light plants that can survive in a windowless office? A: Some low light plants that can survive in a windowless office include snake plants, pothos, Chinese evergreen, ZZ plants, peace lilies, and cast iron plants.
Q: How do I take care of plants in a windowless office?
A: To take care of plants in a windowless office, make sure to water them only when the top inch of soil is dry, fertilize them regularly with a balanced fertilizer, clean and prune them periodically, provide them with artificial light, and monitor the temperature and humidity levels.
Q: What are some plants that can purify the air in a windowless office?
A: Some plants that can purify the air in a windowless office include snake plants, peace lilies, Chinese evergreen, spider plants, and pothos.
Q: Can I use artificial light to help plants survive in a windowless office?
A: Yes, you can use LED grow lights to supplement natural light and provide the plants with the light they need to thrive in a windowless office.
Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when selecting plants for a windowless office?
A: Some common mistakes to avoid when selecting plants for a windowless office include choosing plants that require too much light or humidity, overwatering plants, selecting plants that are toxic to pets or people, and choosing plants that are too large for the available space.
Q: How do plants boost productivity and wellbeing in the office?
A: Plants can improve air quality, reduce noise levels, increase positive feelings, and provide a sense of control over the work environment, which can lead to increased productivity and wellbeing in the office.
Q: Which plants can thrive in low-light conditions?
A: Plants that can thrive in low-light conditions include snake plants, ZZ plants, pothos, peace lilies, and spider plants, among others.
Q: Can I have too many plants in the office?
A: While there is no fixed rule on how many plants are too many, it's best to strike a balance between aesthetics and functionality, keeping in mind the available space and the plants' care requirements.
Q: Can plants help reduce stress and anxiety in the workplace?
A: Yes, plants can help reduce stress and anxiety in the workplace by promoting relaxation and providing a sense of calmness and well-being.
Q: Do all plants require the same amount of care?
A: No, different plants have different care requirements, and it's essential to understand each plant's needs, including light, water, temperature, and humidity levels, to ensure optimal growth and health.
Q: Can I use artificial plants instead of real ones?
A: Yes, artificial plants can be used instead of real ones, but they don't offer the same benefits as live plants, such as air purification and stress reduction, and may require cleaning to prevent dust buildup.
Best Plants for Low Light Office: Conclusion
In conclusion, bringing plants into a windowless office can have numerous benefits, from improving air quality and reducing stress to enhancing productivity and boosting mood.
The key is to choose the right plants that can thrive in low-light environments and require minimal maintenance.
By following our guide to the best plants for a windowless office, you'll be well on your way to creating a thriving indoor garden that will keep you company and brighten up your workspace.
Remember to choose plants that suit your personal preferences and needs, and don't be afraid to experiment with different varieties until you find the perfect fit.
With a little bit of care and attention, you can transform your windowless office into a green oasis that supports your well-being and helps you stay focused and energized throughout the day.
Want more? Check out these articles for products to help you build the best home office setup in the world:
Andrew Macarthy has worked from home for over a decade. He is a social media consultant and the author of the #1 Amazon Web Marketing Bestseller, 500 Social Media Marketing Tips - with over 150,000 copies sold to date.
