Growli, if she wants a plant for her office she can buy one out of the money you are paying her. It's not like she is a waitress making minumum wage and depends on tips to get by. You aren't exactly flush with cash yourself. You will probably be buying her a plant regardless of anything anyone says, for various reasons, this is why it is inappropriate for her to even suggest it. If LC*M* wanted something sentimental, why not ask for a hand made card, or a picture.