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10 WFH desk plants to brighten up your workspace

We've compiled a list of the top 10 office desk plants under £20 that are easy to care for and perfect for boosting your mood and productivity.

6th Jun 2024

Did you know  that with just a small green addition, you could transform your dreary workspace into a vibrant oasis of productivity and happiness? 

Not only do plants add a much-needed pop of colour and life to your desk, but studies have shown they can also boost your mood, reduce stress, and even purify the air around you. But with so many options out there, which leafy friend should you choose? Fear not, because we’ve done the hard work for you and compiled a list of the top 10 office desk plants that are easy to care for, affordable, and most importantly, look great next to your laptop.

1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)


The spider plant is a classic choice for office desks. With its long, arching leaves and ability to thrive in low light conditions, it's practically indestructible. Plus, it's one of the best air-purifying plants around, removing formaldehyde and xylene from your workspace.

💰Price: £10.00

  • Air purifying 
  • Low maintenance 
  • Happy in both bright or low light indoors
Image source: Beard and Daisies
Image source: Beard and Daisies

2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

 

The snake plant is another low-maintenance option that's perfect for forgetful waterers. Its tall, upright leaves add a modern touch to any desk setup.

💰 Price: £10.00

  • Air purifying 
  • Good first plant 
  • Easy maintenance 
Image source: Patch Plants

3. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ plant is practically unkillable, making it ideal for those with a less-than-green thumb. It can survive in low light and with minimal watering, plus its glossy, dark green leaves look ultra-chic.

💰Price: £20.00

  • Excellent air-purifier
  • Enjoys bright, indirect light 
  • Easy maintenance
Image source: Dunelm

4. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Pothos, also known as devil's ivy, is a fast-growing vine that looks great trailing down the side of a bookshelf or filing cabinet. It's super easy to care for and comes in a variety of leaf colours and patterns.

💰Price: £6.99

  • Air purifier 
  • Best as a hanging plant 
  • Easy maintenance 
Image source: Plant for all seasons

5. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

Chinese evergreens are known for their lush, colourful foliage that can range from deep green to silver and red. They prefer medium to low light, making them perfect for cubicle life.

💰Price: £6.00

  • Air purifier 
  • Helps with stress
  • Versatile indoor plant
Image source: Prickle Plants

6. Aloe Vera

Not only does an aloe vera plant look cool and sculptural on your desk, but it's also practical. The gel inside the leaves can be used to soothe minor burns and cuts, perfect for those paper cut emergencies.

💰Price: £8.00

  • Air purifier 
  • Pet friendly 
  • Low maintenance
Source: Little Botanical

7. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

The peace lily is not only beautiful with its glossy leaves and delicate white flowers, but it's also an air-purifying powerhouse. It removes ammonia, benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air, making it a must-have for any office.


💰 Price: £10.99

  • Air purifier 
  • Low water requirements  
  • Happy in direct sunlight

Image source: House of plant

8. English Ivy

English ivy is another fantastic air purifier, and its trailing vines look great in hanging baskets or on high shelves. It's easy to care for and can tolerate low to bright indirect light. 

💰Price: £12.50

  • Air purifier 
  • Helps with respiratory symptom
  • Easy to grow and evergreen
Image source: Reggy's

9.  Philodendron

With its heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines, the philodendron is a classic choice for adding some greenery to your desk. It's low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of light conditions.

💰 Price: £8.99

  • Can survive in low light 
  • Low maintenance 
  • Air purifier 
Image source: House of Kojo

10. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea)


The bamboo palm is a great choice if you have a bit more space on your desk or floor. It can grow quite tall and bushy, providing a tropical vibe to your workspace. Plus, it's an excellent air purifier.]{.mark}

💰Price: £14.99

  • Believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
  • Easy to grow
  • Requires minimal maintenance
Image source: Van Meuwen.
So there you have it, 10 desk plants that are sure to liven up your office and make your 9-to-5 a bit more bearable. These plants not only add a touch of nature to your workspace but also help improve air quality and boost your mood. Whether you have a green thumb or are just looking for low-maintenance options, there's a plant on this list for everyone. Happy planting!