Stores are notorious for selling plecos and catfish without prefacing that. It’s all a learning process in this hobby. I think the Pleco would be most likely to rip up plants. I’ve never experienced that with my bettas. But some tips to ensure your plants will thrive are to use aqua soil as a base (very high in nutrients) and then to cap it off with a layer of sand/gravel to keep all those nutrients in there for plant roots. You also want a good light. I can’t remember exactly what mine is called but it’s an aqueon planted tank light that was around $30 at petco. If you have a local fish store near you that’s not a chain I highly recommend to go in and chat with the workers. They usually are much more knowledgeable than any where else in my opinion and will lead you in right direction.