Plants that Purify the Air

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10 Plants that Purify

Indoor plants have more to offer than just aesthetics. Beyond their lush green beauty, many houseplants have the remarkable ability to purify the air in your home. In an era where air quality is a growing concern (check out how Zen is helping the climate challenge here), these green companions can play a vital role in creating a healthier and more inviting living space. We'll introduce you to 10 indoor plants that not only brighten your home but also help purify the air you breathe. Most of the data is from the Nasa clean air study.

1. Snake Plant

Also known as the mother-in-law's tongue and by its botanical name sansevieria trifasciata, the snake plant is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that excels at filtering out formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. Its striking, sword-like leaves make it an attractive addition to any room. Keep in mind, snake plants are poisonous to pets!

2. Peace Lily

Peace lilies, or spathiphyllum, are excellent at removing common indoor pollutants like ammonia, benzene, and formaldehyde, making them one of the best plants that purify the air. Their elegant white blooms and lush green leaves add a touch of tranquility to your space.

3. Boston Fern

Boston ferns, or nephrolepis exaltata, are not only visually appealing but also great at purifying the air by removing pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene. They thrive in high humidity, making them perfect for bathrooms or kitchens, but I also recommend having a humidifier nearby. Similar ferns, such as the maidenhair, purify as well.

4. Spider Plant

I always say this is the type of spider you want in your house, the chlorophytum comosum is known for its lime green color and air-purifying prowess. They’re effective at removing formaldehyde and xylene and are easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for beginners.

5. Aloe Vera

Beyond its soothing gel and many health benefits (check out 10 health benefits of houseplants), aloe vera, or aloe barbadensis, can filter out airborne toxins like formaldehyde and benzene. Keep it on a sunny windowsill for the best results as one of the plants that purify the air.

6. Rubber Plant

Rubber plants, or ficus elastica, are both stylish and effective at purifying the air by removing formaldehyde. They're an excellent choice for bright, indirect light locations and the mature ones are incredible statement pieces.

7. Bamboo Palm

If you want a tropical look in your space, bamboo palms, or chamaedorea seifrizii, are known for their ability to remove airborne pollutants, including formaldehyde and benzene. They thrive in bright, indirect light and can bring a touch of tropical elegance to your space.

8. Gerbera Daisy

Gerbera daisies, or gerbera jamesonii, not only add vibrant color to your home but also remove airborne toxins like benzene and trichloroethylene, which makes them another one of the best plants that purify. Place them in a sunny spot to enjoy their blooms.

9. Lavender

Lavender not only fills your home with such a delightful fragrance but is a plant that purifies the air, of course! It's also known to reduce stress and anxiety, making it great in bedrooms. I use a lavender pillow spray and it puts me to sleep every time.

10. English Ivy

English ivy, or hedera helix, excels at purifying the air by removing airborne mold and pollutants like formaldehyde. Nobody wants those. It can thrive in medium to bright indirect light and looks fantastic in a macrame plant hanger.

Incorporating these air-purifying indoor plants into your home not only enhances your decor but also contributes to a healthier living environment. Their ability to filter out common indoor pollutants makes them valuable additions to any space. So, why not invite these green superheroes into your home and breathe easier knowing that nature is helping you purify the air you breathe? Your indoor jungle awaits!

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