Indoor air quality is crucial for our health and well-being. NASA’s Clean Air Study identified several houseplants that can effectively remove toxins from the air. Here are five top houseplants you should consider for their air-purifying qualities.
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Description: Known for its long, arching leaves with white stripes, the Spider Plant is both decorative and functional.
Air Purifying Benefits:
- Removes: Formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene.
- Best Location: Place it in living rooms or bedrooms for optimal benefits.
Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light.
- Water: Keep the soil slightly moist; water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Humidity: Thrives in normal humidity levels.
2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Description: With its lush, dark green leaves and elegant white flowers, the Peace Lily adds a touch of elegance to any room.
Air Purifying Benefits:
- Removes: Benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene, and ammonia.
- Best Location: Ideal for bathrooms or shaded corners.
Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers low to medium light.
- Water: Water when the soil feels dry; Peace Lilies are tolerant of occasional over-watering.
- Humidity: Prefers higher humidity levels; mist regularly.
3. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Description: Also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, the Snake Plant has tall, stiff leaves with green and yellow stripes.
Air Purifying Benefits:
- Removes: Formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, xylene, and toluene.
- Best Location: Suitable for bedrooms and living areas.
Care Tips:
- Light: Tolerates low light but thrives in indirect sunlight.
- Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings; avoid overwatering.
- Humidity: Adapts well to low humidity levels.
4. Aloe Vera
Description: Known for its succulent leaves filled with a clear gel, Aloe Vera is not only an air purifier but also a handy plant for treating minor burns and skin irritations.
Air Purifying Benefits:
- Removes: Formaldehyde and benzene.
- Best Location: Ideal for kitchens or sunny windowsills.
Care Tips:
- Light: Requires bright, indirect sunlight.
- Water: Water thoroughly but infrequently; allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Humidity: Prefers dry conditions.
5. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Description: With its feathery, arching fronds, the Boston Fern is a popular choice for hanging baskets and shelves.
Air Purifying Benefits:
- Removes: Formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene.
- Best Location: Perfect for bathrooms or humid environments.
Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers indirect light.
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist; water when the surface is dry.
- Humidity: Requires high humidity; mist regularly and consider using a humidifier.
Conclusion
Incorporating these five houseplants into your indoor spaces can significantly improve air quality while adding natural beauty to your home. Following NASA’s recommendations, these plants help remove various toxins and create a healthier living environment. Enjoy the dual benefits of cleaner air and vibrant greenery with these easy-to-care-for houseplants.