Top Five Air-Purifying Plants for Your Home Interior
Top Five Toughest Indoor Plants for Air Purification
Indoor plants not only serve as decorative elements but also play a significant role in improving air quality. A recent study by NASA has shown that certain houseplants can help purify the air, removing toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and other chemicals commonly found in building materials and paint [1]. Here are the top five toughest indoor plants that are both resilient and effective at air purification:
- Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) – Known as devil’s ivy, this plant is nearly impossible to kill and efficiently removes harmful VOCs like formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene. It requires watering only every 7-10 days and tolerates low light well [4]. Its variegated leaves make for a very pretty addition to any room, with their graceful draping from hanging baskets [2].
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) – Very low-maintenance, this plant effectively removes formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, toluene, and nitrogen oxides from the air [2]. It is known for its ability to convert carbon dioxide into oxygen at night, making it an ideal choice for bedrooms [3]. The snake plant is easy to care for and tolerates low light and infrequent watering.
- ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) – Considered one of the most indestructible houseplants, the ZZ plant is easy to care for and known for its air-purifying ability [5]. This plant thrives in low light and requires minimal watering, making it suitable for beginners.
- Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) – Easy to care for in indirect light with moderate temperature tolerance, the spider plant removes formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from indoor air [2]. It is super easy to grow and multiplies rapidly, making it a great choice for those looking to add more greenery to their home.
- Dracaena – Tolerant of low to moderate light and occasional neglect, the dracaena has a reputation for air purification and aesthetic appeal. It effectively removes toxins from indoor air [4].
While peace lilies are also excellent air purifiers, they require more consistent moisture and care [2]. On the other hand, rubber plants absorb contaminants such as xylene, benzene, and trichloroethylene through their leaves and convert them into oxygen. They thrive in dim light and prefer underwatering to overwatering [1].
Studies have shown that having plants around can help reduce stress and anxiety, increase productivity, and improve sleep quality [1]. So, not only will these tough indoor plants help purify the air, but they will also contribute to a healthier and more pleasant living environment.
- While focusing on home-and-garden décor, consider including the golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) in your lifestyle, as it's both resilient and effective at air purification, capable of removing harmful toxins from the home.
- Transforming your home-and-garden space into a serene sanctuary, consider cultivating the snake plant (Sansevieria trifasciata), which not only improves air quality by removing airborne impurities but also produces oxygen at night, providing a restful atmosphere for your bedroom.
