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Let’s dive into NASA’s top 10 plants that clean air (air purifying plants) and see what they can do.
In our ongoing quest for cleaner air, NASA did a study that found certain plants not only make our homes beautiful but also act as natural air cleaners. These plants can filter out harmful toxins from the air and make our living space healthier.
Why Air Cleaning Plants Matter?
Indoor air pollution is an often overlooked issue that can cause a lot of health problems including allergies, asthma and other respiratory issues. Elements like benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene found in household items and synthetic building materials are the culprits. Introducing air cleaning plants can greatly reduce these invisible enemies.
NASA’s Top 10 Air Cleaning Plants
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Easy to care for and hardy, the Spider Plant removes carbon monoxide, formaldehyde and xylene. These pollutants are found in household items like adhesives, paints and solvents.
- Light: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Moderate; let soil dry between waterings
- Benefits: Pet friendly
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Also known as the ‘Mother-in-Law’s Tongue,’ this plant filters out formaldehyde and benzene. It’s one of the few plants that can convert CO2 into oxygen at night, perfect for bedrooms.
- Light: Low to bright indirect light
- Water: Minimal; let soil dry completely
- Benefits: Nighttime air purifier
3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Beautiful white blooms and great at removing ammonia, benzene and formaldehyde from the air. Strong air cleaning capabilities makes it a popular indoor plant.
- Light: Low to medium light
- Water: Keep soil moist; don’t overwater
- Benefits: High toxin removal
4. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
Can grow in various light conditions and removes mold and other airborne allergens making it perfect for bathrooms and kitchens.
- Light: Low to bright indirect light
- Water: Regular watering; keep soil moist
- Benefits: Controls mold
5. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
This lush green fern adds a tropical touch to your home and filters out formaldehyde and xylene. It also adds moisture to the air making it perfect for dry indoor spaces.
- Light: Indirect light
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist
- Benefits: Adds humidity to the air
6. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is famous for its healing properties but also for air purifying by removing benzene and formaldehyde. It’s a all around good plant to have at home.
- Light: Bright indirect light
- Water: Let soil dry between waterings
- Benefits: Medicinal uses
7. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
Perfect for homes or offices with lots of indirect light. Removes formaldehyde, benzene and trichloroethylene making it a great addition to workspaces.
- Light: Indirect light
- Water: Moderate; keep soil slightly moist
- Benefits: Pet friendly
8. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Beautiful green and silver leaves. Removes benzene and formaldehyde from the air.
- Light: Low to medium light
- Water: Let soil dry out between waterings
- Benefits: Low maintenance
9. Gerbera Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)
This flower is not just beautiful but also removes trichloroethylene and benzene from indoor air. Perfect for brightening up any room and improving air quality.
- Light: Bright light
- Water: Regular watering; keep soil moist
- Benefits: High visual appeal
10. Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)
Removes airborne toxins like formaldehyde, xylene and toluene. Versatile plant that can adapt to indoor spaces.
- Light: Indirect light
- Water: Keep soil slightly moist; don’t overwater
- Benefits: Versatile and adaptable
How to Care for Air Purifying Plants
To make these air purifying plants thrive and work better:
- Place plants in areas where they get the right light.
- Don’t overwater; most indoor plants prefer soil that’s slightly dry.
- Wipe leaves regularly to remove dust and boost air filtering.
- Use organic soil and natural fertilizers to promote growth.
- Rotate plants every now and then to get even light.
Happy Gardening! 😉🌱
