Plants for the Home Office: 10 Choices That Improve Concentration, Air Quality, and the Joy of Working

It's Monday morning, the alarm rings, and you prepare for another week of remote work. You sit at your desk, turn on the screen, and beside the monitor, a green plant welcomes you with its silent presence. It's not just a decorative element: it's a work tool. The greenery around your workstation reduces stress, increases ambient humidity, and improves your cognitive perception, making long hours at the computer more pleasant and less tiring. Studies such as the one conducted by the Universities of Exeter and Cardiff (2014) have demonstrated increased productivity in work environments enriched with plants. Our growers have selected 10 perfect plants for your home office, capable of transforming your workday. In the collection of easy-care office plants, you can find the current selection.

Why plants are good for people who work from home: what science says (and what it doesn't)

Office plants increase productivity, creativity, and well-being, according to the Exeter/Cardiff study (2014). They improve ambient humidity and reduce the perception of visual fatigue during hours spent at the computer.

When you work from home, your surroundings directly influence your mood and performance. Having plants in your home office is not merely an aesthetic choice, but a genuine investment in your physical and mental well-being. Scientific research has now clarified many of the benefits that indoor greenery can provide.

The renowned study conducted by the Universities of Exeter and Cardiff (2014) highlighted how introducing plants into a work environment significantly increases productivity. Not only that, but workers' creativity and perceived well-being also improved. These findings are significant for anyone who spends many hours in front of a screen.

Another fundamental aspect is regulating ambient humidity. In air-conditioned environments, the air tends to dry out, causing discomfort such as dry eyes and respiratory passages. The presence of 3-5 plants in a room of approximately 15 square metres can increase relative humidity, creating a more comfortable microclimate. This is particularly useful for anyone looking for plants for working from home, where comfort is essential.

Plants also help reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone, promoting a sense of calm and reducing mental fatigue. Simply looking at greenery has a soothing effect on the eyes and mind, helping you maintain concentration for longer.

It is important, however, to dispel some myths. Although the NASA Clean Air Study (1989) demonstrated plants' ability to filter certain pollutants in sealed environments, this effectiveness cannot be directly replicated in an open domestic environment. Plants do not replace a professional air purifier or remove electromagnetic fields generated by electronic devices. Their true value lies in their psychological benefits, increased humidity, and improved overall well-being.

The 10 plants recommended by our horticulturists for your home office workstation

The ten recommended plants are Sansevieria Laurentii, Sansevieria swasdii, Pothos, Philodendron Birkin, variegated Hoya kerrii, Beaucarnea, Calathea Sanderiana, Monstera deliciosa, Zamioculcas zamiifolia, and Spathiphyllum: plants chosen for ease of care, aesthetics, and benefits for those who work from home, suited to different light conditions and different workstation levels.

Creating an inspiring and peaceful workspace is easier than you think. Our horticulturists selected ten ideal plants for your home office, taking into account ease of care, aesthetics, and specific benefits for those who work from home. Here is our top 10 for your home office plants:

Sansevieria Laurentii – The queen of the desk

The Sansevieria trifasciata 'Laurentii', also known as the Snake Plant, is a timeless classic. Perfect for small and medium-sized desks (from 40x60 cm), it tolerates low light exceptionally well but thrives in bright, indirect light. Watering is minimal: once every 3-4 weeks in summer and every 6-8 weeks in winter. It is the ideal choice for anyone looking for desk plants that can withstand forgetfulness and purify the air even at night. Price from €20.

Sansevieria swasdii in ceramic from Le Officine

This compact Sansevieria variety, often presented in designer pots from Le Officine dei Giardini di Giulia (Sally, Pitti, Ares, Dioniso lines), is a gem for small spaces. It requires the same care as Laurentii, with indirect light and infrequent watering. Its sculptural look makes it a design focal point, perfect for anyone who wants a touch of botanical art. Price from €33,50.

Pothos – The most adaptable

The Epipremnum aureum, or Pothos, is the quintessential climbing plant. Ideal for placing on shelves or bookcases, allowing its stems to cascade gracefully. It adapts to various light conditions, from medium to low. Water when the potting soil is dry to the touch, about every 10-14 days in summer and every 3 weeks in winter. It is one of the best plants for a home office thanks to its versatility and ability to create an urban jungle effect. Price from €4,50.

Philodendron Birkin – Striped leaves, architectural look

The Philodendron 'Birkin' is an elegant plant with dark green leaves striped with creamy white, giving it an almost painted appearance. It fits well on medium-sized desks (from 60x80 cm) and prefers bright indirect light. Watering should be regular, keeping the substrate slightly moist while avoiding waterlogging, every 7-10 days in summer and every 2-3 weeks in winter. It adds a touch of sophistication to your home office. Price from €15,50.

Hoya Kerrii Variegata – The sweetheart desk plant

The Hoya kerrii 'Variegata', or sweetheart plant, is an adorable, low-maintenance option, often sold as a single heart-shaped leaf. Perfect for small spaces on a desk. It requires bright indirect light and moderate watering, every 2-3 weeks in summer and monthly in winter, allowing the potting soil to dry out thoroughly. It symbolizes affection and is an excellent choice as a stress-relieving desk plant. Price €20.

Beaucarnea (Nolina recurvata) – Sculptural, stores water in its trunk

The Beaucarnea recurvata, or Ponytail Palm, is a sculptural plant with a swollen trunk base that stores water. It is ideal for people who travel often or tend to forget watering. It requires bright indirect light and very infrequent watering, every 3-4 weeks in summer and every 6-8 weeks in winter. Its unique shape makes it a striking design feature on the floor beside a desk or on a pedestal. Price from €30,50.

Calathea Sanderiana – Graphic leaf pattern

Calathea ornata 'Sanderiana' is loved for its leaves with pink or white patterns that look hand-painted. It requires medium indirect light and high humidity. Water every 7-10 days in summer and every 2 weeks in winter, keeping the substrate consistently moist. It is a plant that improves concentration through its beauty and movement (the leaves close at night). Price from €23,50.

Monstera Deliciosa – The icon for your living room and study corner

Monstera deliciosa, with its large, fenestrated leaves, is perfect for a larger corner of your living room and study. It requires bright indirect light and regular watering when the first few centimetres of soil are dry (every 7-10 days in summer and every 2-3 weeks in winter). Although it is not a desk plant, it is one of the best plants for a home office to create a lush and inspiring environment. Price from €18,90.

Zamioculcas zamiifolia (ZZ plant) – Glossy dark green, tolerates neglect

Zamioculcas zamiifolia, or ZZ Plant, is incredibly resilient and tolerant of neglect. Its glossy, dark green leaves make it an elegant addition to any study. It adapts to a wide range of light conditions, including low light. Water only when the soil is completely dry, every 3-4 weeks in summer and every 6-8 weeks in winter.

Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily) – Elegant white blooms

Spathiphyllum, or Peace Lily, is appreciated for its elegant white blooms and its ability to indicate when it is thirsty (the leaves droop). It prefers medium indirect light and consistent humidity. Water every 7 days in summer and every 10-14 days in winter, keeping the soil moist. It is one of the plants that purify the air in the office and adds a touch of serenity.

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How to match plants to your home office style (Scandi, Japandi, Industrial, Mediterranean)

In Scandi style, Philodendron Birkin and Pothos in light ceramic or raw terracotta work well; in Japandi, sculptural forms such as Sansevieria swasdii and Beaucarnea; in Industrial style, Monstera deliciosa and Zamioculcas with metal and dark terracotta; in Mediterranean style, Calathea Sanderiana and Sansevieria Laurentii in terracotta or glazed ceramic.

Integrating plants into your home office does not only mean adding greenery, but also harmonizing them with the existing interior style. Each style has its own distinctive features, and the right plants can enhance them, creating a cohesive and pleasant environment.

For a Scandi style, which favors light, clean lines, and natural materials, plants with simple leaves and pots in light ceramic or raw terracotta are perfect. Philodendron Birkin, with its delicate stripes, fits in beautifully.

Japandi, a fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics, seeks serenity and functionality. Here, sculptural and minimalist forms such as Sansevieria swasdii in a pot from Le Officine dei Giardini di Giulia or a floor-standing Beaucarnea fit perfectly.

For an Industrial setting, characterized by metal, raw wood, and dark tones, plants with a strong visual impact and a certain robustness are ideal. An imposing Monstera deliciosa or a Pothos climbing up a metal structure can create a fascinating contrast.

Finally, the Mediterranean style, with its warm colors, natural materials, and relaxed atmosphere, welcomes plants that evoke sun-drenched landscapes. Although not strictly Mediterranean, plants such as Calathea Sanderiana with its warm colors or Sansevieria Laurentii with its upright growth can evoke that sense of calm and nature.

Choosing the right pot is just as important as choosing the plant. A Made in Italy ceramic pot from Le Officine dei Giardini di Giulia can elevate your plant's aesthetic, transforming it into a true design element.

Home office style comparison: recommended plants, visual rationale, suggested pot/ceramic

Home office style	Recommended plants	Visual rationale	Suggested pot/ceramic
Scandi	Philodendron Birkin, Pothos	Clean lines, neutral colors, delicate leaves	Matte light ceramic, raw terracotta
Japandi	Sansevieria swasdii, Beaucarnea	Sculptural shapes, minimalism, serenity	Made in Italy pots by Le Officine dei Giardini di Giulia (Sally/Pitti lines), concrete
Industrial	Monstera Deliciosa, Zamioculcas	Contrast with raw materials, strong visual impact	Metal, dark terracotta, fiber pots
Mediterranean	Calathea Sanderiana, Sansevieria Laurentii	Warm colors, relaxed atmospheres, natural accents	Terracotta, glazed ceramic (blue, olive green)

The 3-level rule: desk, shelf, floor

To maximize the biophilic effect without cluttering your workspace, arrange plants on three levels: a small plant on the desk, a trailing one on a shelf, and a larger one on the floor.

When it comes to decorating your home office with plants, arrangement is essential. An effective approach is the "3-level rule", which allows you to integrate greenery harmoniously and functionally, optimizing space and maximizing the benefits.

Level 1: the desk. This is your most immediate space. Choose a small, compact plant that does not obstruct your view or take up too much valuable space. A Sansevieria swasdii in a designer pot, a Hoya Kerrii Variegata, or a small Sansevieria Laurentii are perfect. Their discreet yet constant presence gives you a visual connection with nature, reducing stress and improving concentration.

Level 2: the shelf or bookcase. Above your desk or on a nearby bookcase, place a trailing plant or one that adds volume without encroaching on your workspace. Pothos is the ideal example, with its stems creating a green cascade. A Philodendron Birkin on a wider shelf can also add a touch of elegance. This level draws the eye upward, expanding the perception of space and adding depth to the room.

Level 3: the floor. To complete the biophilic effect, choose a larger plant to place on the floor, perhaps in a corner or behind the desk if space allows. A Monstera Deliciosa, Beaucarnea, or Zamioculcas zamiifolia are excellent choices. These plants create a focal point, fill the vertical space, and contribute significantly to ambient humidity. Make sure they do not obstruct the walkway or ergonomic chair.

This three-level arrangement not only makes the space more aesthetically pleasing, but also creates layers of greenery that mimic a natural environment, promoting a sense of calm and well-being. Always remember to consider each plant's light requirements when deciding on their final placement.

Focus better: 4 tips combining greenery, light, and routine

Improving concentration when working from home is possible by incorporating plants, optimizing natural light, creating a structured routine, and taking short green breaks.

Concentration is a valuable resource, especially when working from home. Here are four practical tips that combine the power of greenery with effective habits to keep your mind focused:

1. Create a visible "green spot": Position your favorite desk plant (such as a Sansevieria or Hoya Kerrii) so that it is always within your field of vision. When you feel your mind wandering, look at the greenery for a few seconds. This visual micro-break helps reset your mind and reduce eye strain, improving your ability to return to the task.
2. Optimize natural and artificial light: Plants thrive with the right light, and so do you. Position your workstation near a window to take advantage of natural light, but make sure your plants receive indirect light to prevent scorching. Supplement it with a good desk lamp that does not create reflections on the screen. A well-lit environment, both for you and your plants, boosts alertness and mood.
3. Establish a "green routine": Dedicate 5-10 minutes at the beginning or end of your workday to caring for your plants. Water them, mist them, and clean the leaves. This brief routine not only ensures the health of your plants, but also serves as a moment of mindfulness. It helps you disconnect from work and recharge your energy, improving your ability to concentrate for the rest of the day or preparing you for rest.
4. Incorporate brief "biophilic breaks": Every hour, get up from your desk and take a walk among your plants. Observe the new leaves, gently touch the texture, and smell the fragrance (if they have one). These brief interruptions, even just 2-3 minutes long, are a miniature form of "forest bathing." They reduce stress, stimulate creativity, and allow you to return to work with a fresher, more focused mind.

Mistakes to avoid when working from home (our growers' list)

The most common mistakes are underestimating light, overwatering, forgetting humidity, choosing plants that are too large for the space, not cleaning the leaves and neglecting pests. To avoid them, simply observe the actual light at your workstation, check the soil before watering and regularly inspect the leaves, especially the underside.

Even the most passionate plant enthusiasts can make mistakes, especially when it comes to incorporating greenery into a home office. Our growers have compiled a list of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them, to ensure that your home office plants thrive and support you as much as possible:

• Underestimating light: Many people place plants in dark corners thinking they'll "survive." Even plants that tolerate low light in offices, such as Sansevieria or Zamioculcas, need a certain amount of indirect light to thrive. A common mistake is failing to consider the actual light during working hours. Observe the light at your workstation during the day and choose suitable plants.
• Overwatering: "Too much love" is often fatal. Root rot is one of the most frequent causes of death for indoor plants. Always check the soil before watering: it should be dry for the first 2-3 cm for most plants. If you're a beginner, opt for drought-tolerant plants such as Beaucarnea or Sansevieria.
• Forgetting humidity: Dry air in heated or air-conditioned environments is an enemy of tropical plants. Many plants for a home study, such as Calathea or Philodendron, love humidity. If you can't use a humidifier, mist the leaves regularly or place the plants on a tray of damp expanded clay.
• Ignoring size: A Monstera Deliciosa is magnificent, but it isn't a desk plant. Choose plants suited to the available space. For your desk, opt for compact varieties. For the floor, you can go for larger plants, but make sure they don't obstruct your movement or interfere with your workstation's ergonomics.
• Don't clean the leaves: Dust accumulates on leaves, clogging pores and reducing the plant's ability to photosynthesize. Gently clean your plants' leaves every 2-3 weeks with a damp cloth. This not only helps them breathe better, but also makes them shinier and more beautiful.
• Neglecting pests: A small problem can become an infestation. Check the leaves regularly (especially the underside) to spot signs of pests such as aphids or mealybugs. Act immediately with natural products such as neem oil or soft soap to prevent them from spreading.

How we choose plants for people who work from home: our process

We choose plants for people who work from home based on three criteria: resilience, that is, the ability to forgive the occasional lapse and adapt to different light and humidity conditions; specific benefits, such as improving humidity and creating a sense of calm; and aesthetics, so that each plant complements the study’s decor.

Selecting plants for your home workspace is a process that our nursery growers take very seriously. It is not just about beauty, but also functionality and well-being. Our young team of nursery growers, with its deep botanical knowledge, evaluates each species according to specific criteria that meet the needs of people who work from home.

First of all, we consider resilience. We know that time is precious, so we prioritize easy-care plants for people who work from home, which forgive the occasional lapse and do not require excessively complex care. The ability to adapt to different light and humidity conditions is a key factor, especially for office plants without windows or with variable exposure.

Next, we consider the specific benefits. Every plant in our selection is also chosen for its properties: its ability to improve ambient humidity, contribute to a sense of calm, or add an aesthetic touch that stimulates creativity. We consider how each plant can support you in your daily work.

Finally, aesthetics play a fundamental role. The plants should blend harmoniously with your interior design, whether it’s Scandinavian, Japandi, or industrial. That’s why we also offer pots and accessories, including Made in Italy ceramics by Le Officine dei Giardini di Giulia, which complete the look of the plant and your surroundings. Our goal is to provide you not just with a plant, but with an element that enriches your space and your working life.

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Frequently asked questions

Which plants should you put in a home office with little light?

For low-light environments, the best choices are Sansevieria Laurentii, Zamioculcas zamiifolia (ZZ plant), and Pothos. These plants are extremely tolerant and require minimal care, making them perfect for indoor offices or less brightly lit corners. However, make sure to place them where they receive at least some indirect light.

Do desk plants really help concentration?

Yes, science confirms it. Studies such as the Exeter/Cardiff study (2014) have shown that plants increase productivity and creativity in work environments. Their presence reduces stress, improves mood, and provides visual micro-breaks that help keep the mind focused during working hours.

How many plants are needed in a 12-15 sq m home office?

For a 12-15 sq m room, 3-5 plants of different sizes are recommended. For example, a large floor plant (Monstera), a medium one on a shelf (Pothos), and a small one on the desk (Sansevieria). This arrangement maximizes the aesthetic and biophilic benefits, contributing to better balance in ambient humidity.

How do you care for plants when you are on holiday in August?

For summer holidays, group the plants in a cool, bright place away from direct sunlight. Water them thoroughly before leaving. You can use DIY drip irrigation systems or pots with water reservoirs. For longer absences, ask a friend for help or consider hydroponics for plants that tolerate it.

Do plants in a bedroom-office where you sleep cause problems at night?

No, it is an unfounded myth. Plants consume oxygen and release carbon dioxide at night, but in minimal amounts that are not harmful to human health. In fact, their presence can improve sleep quality by reducing stress and increasing humidity, making the environment more comfortable.

How much does it cost to furnish a home office with quality plants?

The cost can vary widely. With a budget of 50-100 euros, you can purchase 2-3 medium-sized plants and basic pots. For a more complete setup with 3-5 quality plants, including designer pots or Made in Italy ceramics, you might spend between 150 and 300 euros. It is an investment in your long-term well-being.