Decorative plants are not just an aesthetic addition to our homes, they also have exceptional benefits for our health. NASA scientists discovered that some household plants are excellent air purifiers, capable of removing harmful toxins from the air. This article will walk through several decorative plants that can elevate your interior design and support a healthier living environment.
Spider Plants (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are hardy, low-maintenance houseplants that thrive well under indirect light. They remove benzene, formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, and xylene, pollutants commonly released from furnishings, fireplaces, and smoking. An adult spider plant can effectively purify air in approximately 200 square feet of space.
Snake Plants (Sansevieria)
Snake plants, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, are sturdy plants that can grow in different lighting conditions and require minimal watering. These plants are effective at removing benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, toluene, and xylene from the air. They’re also known for releasing oxygen at night, making them an ideal choice for bedrooms.
Peace Lilies (Spathiphyllum)
Peace lilies are not only beautiful but also pack substantial air purifying abilities. These plants can absorb acetone vapor, alcohol, benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene through their leaves and release purified air. Their need for low light and weekly watering makes them an easy plant for anyone to care for.
Boston Ferns (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston ferns are popular due to their lush, feathery leaves. They have a high transpiration rate, which increases humidity, making them ideal for dry climates. They are powerful air purifiers, removing compounds like formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the air.
English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English ivy, a versatile climber, is renowned for its capacity to remove airborne mold and feces particles, making it beneficial for those with allergies. It’s also effective in combating the harmful effects of benzene, formaldehyde, toluene, and xylene. However, this plant is toxic if ingested, so it’s not recommended for households with pets or small children.
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese evergreens, with their spotted, variegated leaves, make attractive decorative pieces. As they age, their efficiency in eliminating toxins like benzene and formaldehyde increases. This plant thrives under low light conditions, making it a great low-maintenance choice.
Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
The rubber plant is a perfect decorative element due to its large glossy leaves and tree-like appearance. This plant is efficient in removing formaldehyde from the air, produced by smoking, cooking, and using certain cleaning products. Keep this in a part of the house that gets bright, indirect light for best growth.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Also known as devil’s ivy, pothos have vibrant, cascading vines that make them a popular choice for hanging baskets. Pothos efficiently remove toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, toluene, carbon monoxide, and xylene from indoor air.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera, renowned for its healing properties, also helps to filter out formaldehyde and benzene from the air. It is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal watering and a sunny location.
Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum morifolium)
Chrysanthemums or mums are also effective at purifying the air, known to remove ammonia, benzene, formaldehyde, and xylene. These vibrant flowers will need a spot that gets direct sunlight.
Barberton Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)
The bright, colorful Barberton Daisy is not just pleasing to the eyes, but also excels in removing toxins like trichloroethylene and benzene from the air. They do best under direct sunlight and require good drainage.
While filling our homes with these decorative plants, it’s essential to remember that purifying indoor air isn’t their primary biological function. Consider incorporating other measures like regular cleaning, adequate ventilation, and the use of air purifiers to create the healthiest possible environment. By carefully incorporating these plants based on the light and temperature conditions in our homes, we can enhance our living spaces with both charm and clear air.
