These top 7 air purifying plants are not only aesthetically pleasing and a great way to soften interiors but they are unbelievably good for us to have around. Many houseplants remove large amounts of common toxins from the air around us.
1. Aloe vera
Not only does Aloe look fantastic but it’s super easy to look after needing minimal water. Not only that but the gel inside those fleshy stems can be scraped out and used to ease numerous skin conditions, heal burns and many other common health complaints. Aloe also helps to remove Benzene from the air which is found in paint and cleaning products.
2. Gerbera
Gerbera is in the top 7 air purifying plants as not only does it provide a blast of colour NASA’s Clean Air Study found that Gerbera jamesonii is very effective at cleansing the air of formaldehyde, benzene and trichloroethylene. All common toxins found in fabrics, IT equipment and the air around us.
3. Monstera deliciosa
The highly desired ‘Swiss Cheese plant’ has made a huge comeback. From dark green, glossy foliage to the much sought after white Monstera, they are a stunning addition and really very easy to care for. If you place one in bright, indirect sunlight and away from draughts it will reward you with long climbing stems and huge heart-shaped leaves.
4. Spider plant
A great choice for anyone new to the world of houseplants. Spider plants are very easy to care for and help to clean the air of common toxins including carbon monoxide and xylene. It is also non-toxic to pets. It easily produces baby plants that you can then pot up to make even more houseplants.
5. Sansevieria
Another plant that removes toxins from the air, in fact, NASA found just one ‘Mother in Laws Tongue’ reduced Benzene levels by over 50% and Trichloroethylene by over 13% in just 24 hours. It's a great plant to have in your bedroom, which is where I have a few because they are one of the few plants that continue to convert CO2 to oxygen at night time.
6. Ficus Benjamina
The ‘Weeping Fig’ or ‘Ficus tree’ is a popular houseplant that purifies the air around you which is why it is in the top 7 air purifying plants. Ficus Benjamina was found to be effective at cleansing the air of formaldehyde, xylene and toluene in NASA’s study. It needs bright indirect natural light and consistent water.
7. Chrysanthemum
Loving direct sunlight and an average amount of water Chrysanthemums will produce lots of beautiful blooms in lots of colours. Chrysanthemums also cleanse the air of xylene, ammonia, benzene, toluene, and trichloroethylene plus more!
To pick your plants to help clean the air of toxins in your home, take a look at the range of houseplants we have at Lakeside.
