Indoor plants have become a cornerstone in modern commercial interior design, offering a blend of aesthetic and functional benefits. Large indoor potted plants not only transform the look of a space but also improve air quality, reduce stress, and create a more welcoming environment. In a business setting, these plants can enhance the customer experience, boost employee morale, and even contribute to better productivity.
This article explores the top large indoor plants that are perfect for commercial use, from office spaces and lobbies to restaurants and retail stores. Whether you’re looking for low-maintenance plants or elegant options to elevate your design, these selections will meet your commercial needs.
Table of Contents
1. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
The Fiddle Leaf Fig has become one of the most sought-after large indoor potted plants for businesses. With its broad, dark green leaves, it creates a statement in any commercial space, giving off a chic and sophisticated vibe.
- Size: Can grow up to 10 feet indoors.
- Light Requirements: Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Watering Needs: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Ideal For: Office lobbies, upscale restaurants, and retail stores.
The Fiddle Leaf Fig thrives in high-ceiling spaces and brings a touch of nature into otherwise sterile commercial environments. However, it does require some care, making it best suited for locations where occasional plant maintenance is possible.
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Known for its resilience, the Snake Plant is perfect for commercial environments where low maintenance is a priority. Its sword-like leaves not only look modern but are also known for their air-purifying properties.
- Size: Can grow up to 4 feet indoors.
- Light Requirements: Tolerates low light but prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
- Watering Needs: Very drought-tolerant; water sparingly.
- Ideal For: Offices, waiting areas, and cafes.
This plant is ideal for areas where there’s little time for plant care. It helps remove toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air, making it a practical choice for indoor environments.
3. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
The Rubber Plant is another excellent option for commercial interiors. Its large, glossy leaves provide a bold visual appeal, and it is well-suited for modern, minimalist designs.
- Size: Can reach 8-10 feet indoors.
- Light Requirements: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some lower light conditions.
- Watering Needs: Water when the top layer of soil is dry.
- Ideal For: Offices, conference rooms, and showrooms.
The Rubber Plant’s low-maintenance nature and striking appearance make it an excellent choice for commercial settings where space needs to be utilized for aesthetic impact.
4. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
The Bird of Paradise is known for its large, lush leaves and striking tropical appearance. It creates a dramatic focal point in commercial spaces and thrives in well-lit areas.
- Size: Grows up to 6 feet indoors.
- Light Requirements: Needs bright, direct sunlight.
- Watering Needs: Keep the soil moist but avoid waterlogging.
- Ideal For: Hotel lobbies, restaurants, and large retail spaces.
For businesses wanting to make a bold statement, the Bird of Paradise delivers both in terms of appearance and presence. It’s ideal for locations with plenty of natural light.
5. Kentia Palm (Howea forsteriana)
The Kentia Palm is a timeless choice for commercial environments. Its elegant fronds create a tropical feel without overwhelming the space, making it perfect for more conservative or formal interiors.
- Size: Can grow up to 12 feet indoors.
- Light Requirements: Tolerates low to medium light conditions.
- Watering Needs: Water moderately and allow the soil to dry between waterings.
- Ideal For: Hotel lobbies, reception areas, and office corners.
This plant is low-maintenance and brings an understated yet luxurious touch to any space. Its versatility allows it to be placed in both high-traffic and low-traffic areas.
6. Monstera Deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)
The Monstera Deliciosa has large, fenestrated leaves that add a touch of exotic beauty to commercial spaces. It’s a plant that makes a visual impact and thrives indoors with the right care.
- Size: Can grow up to 8 feet indoors.
- Light Requirements: Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Watering Needs: Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Ideal For: Restaurants, offices, and retail spaces.
This plant’s large, decorative leaves are sure to draw attention, making it perfect for locations where design is a key focus. It adds both a natural and artistic element to commercial interiors.
7. Dracaena Marginata (Dragon Tree)
The Dracaena Marginata, also known as the Dragon Tree, is a hardy plant with narrow, pointed leaves that add a sleek, modern look to any interior space.
- Size: Can grow up to 6-10 feet indoors.
- Light Requirements: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light.
- Watering Needs: Water when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Ideal For: Offices, waiting rooms, and business lounges.
The Dragon Tree’s air-purifying qualities and low-care needs make it an ideal candidate for commercial use, especially in modern or minimalist spaces.
8. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
For businesses seeking a near-indestructible plant, the ZZ Plant is a perfect choice. It thrives on neglect, making it ideal for offices or commercial spaces that don’t have a dedicated plant care routine.
- Size: Can grow up to 3-4 feet indoors.
- Light Requirements: Tolerates low light but grows best in bright, indirect sunlight.
- Watering Needs: Water only when the soil is completely dry.
- Ideal For: Offices, cafes, and low-maintenance commercial spaces.
The ZZ Plant’s waxy, attractive leaves make it both a durable and stylish option for businesses looking to add greenery without a lot of hassle.
9. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
The Areca Palm is a popular large indoor plant that works well in bright, open spaces. Its feathery fronds create a lush, tropical feel, making it a great addition to commercial environments with a lot of natural light.
- Size: Can grow up to 6-7 feet indoors.
- Light Requirements: Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Watering Needs: Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering.
- Ideal For: Hotel lobbies, restaurants, and office atriums.
This palm is a great option for businesses looking to create a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere.
10. Corn Plant (Dracaena fragrans)
The Corn Plant is an easy-to-grow, low-maintenance large indoor plant that offers a tropical look with its tall, arching leaves. It works well in a variety of commercial settings.
- Size: Can grow up to 6 feet indoors.
- Light Requirements: Prefers low to medium light.
- Watering Needs: Water when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Ideal For: Office corners, waiting rooms, and retail stores.
The Corn Plant is perfect for filling empty spaces in large rooms, adding a bit of green without requiring much upkeep.
Benefits of Large Indoor Potted Plants for Commercial Spaces
1. Aesthetic Appeal
Large indoor plants make a statement and help create a more polished and professional look in commercial spaces.
2. Air Purification
Many of these plants, such as the Snake Plant and Rubber Plant, improve air quality by removing toxins, which can contribute to healthier indoor environments.
3. Stress Reduction
Studies have shown that having plants in the workplace can reduce stress and boost employee well-being and productivity.
4. Noise Reduction
Large plants can absorb sound, making them ideal for busy commercial environments that need noise control.
5. Improved Customer Experience
In places like hotels, restaurants, and retail stores, large indoor plants help create a more pleasant atmosphere, making customers feel more comfortable and at ease.
FAQs
Q1: What are the best large indoor potted plants for low-light conditions?
A: The Snake Plant, ZZ Plant, and Corn Plant are excellent choices for low-light commercial spaces.
Q2: How often should I water large indoor potted plants?
A: Watering needs vary by plant, but most large indoor plants prefer the soil to dry out between waterings. For example, the ZZ Plant requires very little water, while the Bird of Paradise needs consistent moisture.
Q3: Can large indoor plants purify the air in commercial settings?
A: Yes, many large indoor plants like the Snake Plant, Rubber Plant, and Fiddle Leaf Fig are known for their
