Plants that survive air-conditioning, low light and busy offices, and where to place each one.
Part 1
For low light and air-conditioning
Snake plant (sansevieria), ZZ plant, pothos, philodendron, aglaonema and peace lily tolerate low light, irregular watering and dry, cool air. They suit cabins, corridors and workstations away from windows.
Part 2
For bright spots and lobbies
Areca palm, kentia palm, rubber plant, fiddle-leaf fig and bird of paradise need bright, indirect light and make strong statement plants for receptions and lobbies.
Part 3
What to expect from plants
Plants make offices more pleasant and are linked in workplace studies to better mood and comfort. Claims that a few pots will clean an office's air are overstated; ventilation does that. Choose plants for how the space looks and feels.