Choosing the right plant for an office space involves balancing aesthetics, maintenance, and safety. For a low-maintenance, pet-safe option, the Costa Farms Money Tree stands out for its compact size and prosperity symbolism. If you prefer a stunning, no-fuss decorative piece, the Artificial Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree offers a realistic look without any care requirements. Meanwhile, the Costa Farms Starter Collection provides an easy entry point for beginners or those who want a variety of greenery in small spaces. Each option involves tradeoffs: real plants require care and may need more attention, while artificial plants excel in durability but lack natural benefits. Here’s what you need to know to make the best choice for your office environment.
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The Costa Farms Money Tree is ideal for those seeking a pet-safe, easy-to-care-for live plant that symbolizes luck.
- Artificial Fiddle Leaf Fig offers a highly realistic look with zero maintenance, perfect for busy or forgetful plant owners.
- The Costa Farms Starter Collection delivers multiple low-maintenance plants suitable for small spaces and beginners.
- Tradeoffs include real plants requiring care and potential transit stress, while artificial plants lack natural air-purifying benefits.
- Your choice depends on whether you want a living plant with health benefits or a maintenance-free decorative piece.
| Costa Farms Money Tree Live Indoor Plant, Easy Care, Pet Safe, Decor Pot |  | Best Overall Live Plant for Prosperity and Safety | Size: 12-16 inches | Plant Type: Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) | Pot Type: Decorative planter | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Artificial Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree with White Planter, 5ft Tall, Indoor Decor |  | Best Artificial Decor for Realistic Style | Brand: OAKRED | Recommended Uses: Indoor | Tree Type: Ficus | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Costa Farms Live Indoor Plants Starter Collection, 4-Inch Pots, 3-Pack |  | Best for Beginners and Small Spaces | Pot Size: 4 inches | Height at Dispatch: 8 inches | Number of Plants: 3 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Costa Farms Money Tree Live Indoor Plant, Easy Care, Pet Safe, Decor Pot
The Costa Farms Money Tree is a compact, visually appealing live plant that fits comfortably on desks or shelves. Its braided trunk and vibrant canopy make it an attractive centerpiece, while its pet-safe status offers peace of mind for households with animals. Compared with artificial options, it provides real greenery and air-purifying benefits, but it does require some care — primarily indirect light and watering — especially if stressed during transit. The limited size makes it ideal for small spaces, but larger office areas might need more substantial plants. This pick balances ease of care with natural beauty, making it a versatile choice for most office environments.
Pros:- Pet-safe and non-toxic to cats and dogs
- Arrives pre-potted, ready to display
- Believed to bring luck and prosperity
- Compact size ideal for desks or small shelves
Cons:- Requires indirect light and regular watering to stay healthy
- Limited size may not suit larger spaces
- Transit can stress the plant, needing some recovery time
Best for: Pet owners and beginners seeking a low-maintenance, lucky charm for their workspace
Not ideal for: Those looking for a large statement plant or who prefer zero maintenance
- Size:12-16 inches
- Plant Type:Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
- Pot Type:Decorative planter
- Pet Safety:Non-toxic to cats and dogs
Our verdict“A reliable, attractive live plant that combines ease of care with pet safety, making it a versatile choice for most offices.”
Artificial Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree with White Planter, 5ft Tall, Indoor Decor
This artificial fiddle leaf fig tree offers a striking, full appearance without any maintenance. Its three natural wood trunks and textured, lifelike leaves create a convincing look that can instantly elevate any indoor space. Compared to live plants, it requires no watering, pruning, or sunlight, making it perfect for busy offices or those with little green thumb confidence. The included white planter with artificial moss adds to its realism, though some might find the height or style doesn’t perfectly match their decor. It’s a practical, long-lasting decorative solution, especially in environments where real plants might struggle or die quickly.
Pros:- Highly realistic appearance with natural wood trunks
- No watering or pruning required
- Includes a sturdy white planter with artificial moss
- Suitable for various indoor spaces
Cons:- Artificial plants lack the air-purifying advantage of real plants
- Some may find the height or style mismatched with existing decor
- Limited to indoor use only
Best for: Those who want a vibrant, maintenance-free centerpiece that mimics real greenery
Not ideal for: Individuals seeking natural air-purifying benefits or who prefer live plants
- Brand:OAKRED
- Recommended Uses:Indoor
- Tree Type:Ficus
- Height:5 feet
Our verdict“A stunning, maintenance-free artificial plant ideal for adding greenery to busy or low-light offices without any upkeep.”
Costa Farms Live Indoor Plants Starter Collection, 4-Inch Pots, 3-Pack
This starter collection includes three different low-maintenance plants—such as Peace Lily, Snake Plant, Fern, or Pothos—each in 4-inch pots. Designed for small spaces like desks or shelves, it offers a quick way to introduce greenery without much fuss. Compared to single larger plants, this set provides variety and flexibility, though it’s less dramatic visually. The plants arrive healthy and ready to display, making it an excellent gift or first step into indoor gardening. However, their lack of drainage holes means careful watering is essential, and they can be sensitive to cold temperatures during transit, so some care may be needed initially.
Pros:- Ideal for small spaces and beginner owners
- Arrives healthy and ready to display
- Includes popular, low-maintenance plants
- Great gift option
Cons:- Pots lack drainage holes, requiring careful watering
- Varieties may differ from online photos
- Sensitive to cold weather during transit
Best for: Beginner plant owners and those with limited space who want a variety of easy-care plants
Not ideal for: Experienced gardeners or those wanting large, statement plants
- Pot Size:4 inches
- Height at Dispatch:8 inches
- Number of Plants:3
- Plant Varieties:Assorted (e.g., Peace Lily, Snake Plant, Fern, Pothos)
Our verdict“A practical, affordable way to add multiple low-maintenance plants to small office spaces, perfect for novices.”
How We Picked
Our selection process focused on balancing practicality with visual appeal, prioritizing office-friendly plants that are easy to care for, safe around pets, and suitable for various environments. We looked at plant size, maintenance needs, safety features, and overall aesthetic value. The options were evaluated for their ease of setup, longevity, and compatibility with typical office conditions like low light or variable temperatures. We also considered the diversity of options — live versus artificial — ensuring there’s a choice for different preferences and skill levels. Ultimately, these picks aim to enhance workplaces with minimal fuss while offering a mix of natural and decorative appeal.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Office Plants
Choosing the right office plant depends on your space, your willingness to care for greenery, and your aesthetic preferences. Live plants bring natural benefits like improved air quality and a calming atmosphere, but they require ongoing maintenance and care. Artificial plants, on the other hand, offer instant visual appeal without any upkeep, making them suitable for busy or forgetful owners. When selecting a plant, consider safety features, size compatibility with your workspace, and whether you prioritize natural air-purifying benefits or decorative appeal. This guide will help you weigh these factors to find the best fit for your office environment.Live Plants vs. Artificial Plants
Real plants like the Costa Farms Money Tree and Starter Collection provide natural air purification and a lively aesthetic, but they demand regular watering, suitable light, and some patience. Artificial options like the Fiddle Leaf Fig require zero maintenance, making them perfect for high-traffic or low-light spaces. The choice hinges on your willingness to care for your plant and your desire for natural benefits versus convenience. Consider your environment, schedule, and whether you want the added health benefits of real greenery or simply decorative greenery that lasts forever.
Size and Placement
Small, tabletop plants like the Costa Farms Money Tree and Starter Collection fit neatly on desks and shelves, ideal for limited space. Tall artificial trees such as the Fiddle Leaf Fig can become focal points but may overwhelm smaller offices or clash with existing decor if not chosen carefully. Think about the available space and how much visual impact you want—compact plants for subtle greenery, tall trees for statement pieces.
Safety and Maintenance
Pet safety is essential if you have animals; the Costa Farms Money Tree is non-toxic to cats and dogs, offering peace of mind. Artificial plants eliminate safety concerns but do not improve air quality. Maintenance needs vary: live plants require watering, indirect light, and occasional pruning; artificial plants just need dusting. For high-traffic or busy environments, low-maintenance options tend to perform better long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are office plants safe for pets?
Many office plants, such as the Costa Farms Money Tree, are non-toxic to cats and dogs. It’s important to verify each plant’s safety before bringing it into a space with pets, especially if they tend to chew or nibble on greenery. Choosing pet-safe plants helps prevent accidental poisoning and creates a safer environment for all occupants.
How much light do office plants need?
Most office plants thrive in indirect or low light, but some, like the Money Tree, prefer brighter, filtered sunlight. Artificial plants don’t need light at all, making them suitable for windowless or dimly lit spaces. If you choose live plants, placing them near a window with indirect sunlight usually provides the best results without risking leaf scorch.
Can I keep artificial plants outdoors?
Artificial plants like the Fiddle Leaf Fig are designed for indoor use and typically aren’t durable enough to withstand outdoor conditions such as rain, direct sunlight, or wind. For outdoor greenery, look for specifically designed outdoor artificial plants that are UV-resistant and weatherproof. Otherwise, outdoor use of indoor-only artificial plants can lead to fading and damage.
What maintenance do live office plants require?
Live office plants generally need regular watering, appropriate light, and occasional pruning to stay healthy. It’s important to avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot, and ensure they are placed in suitable lighting conditions. Fertilizing every few months can also boost growth. Some plants, like snake plants or pothos, are more forgiving and require less attention, making them better choices for busy offices.
How do I choose the right plant for my office?
Start by assessing your space’s lighting conditions, your ability to care for plants, and whether safety or aesthetics are your primary concern. For busy environments or those new to plant care, low-maintenance options like the Starter Collection or artificial trees may be best. If you value natural benefits and don’t mind regular care, a Money Tree or similar live plant can add vitality and positive energy to your workspace.
Conclusion
For pet owners or those seeking a hassle-free, natural accent, the Costa Farms Money Tree offers a balanced combination of easy care, safety, and visual appeal. Beginners or anyone with limited space will appreciate the Starter Collection for its variety and simplicity. Those who want an everlasting, realistic look without the need to water or prune should consider the Artificial Fiddle Leaf Fig. Ultimately, your choice depends on your care capacity, safety concerns, and aesthetic preferences, but each of these options can brighten and personalize your workspace effectively.
