Top 5 Indoor Plants That Naturally Purify the Air

Valerie Brosseau • October 24, 2019

Breathe easier during allergy season

with these natural plant air purifiers

Looking to improve the air quality in your home while adding a touch of natural beauty? Indoor plants do more than just enhance your decor—they actively purify the air, removing harmful toxins and promoting overall well-being. During the winter months, when we spend more time indoors, air circulation decreases, leading to an accumulation of indoor pollutants. Fortunately, NASA studies from the 1970s and 80s revealed that certain plants are highly effective at eliminating airborne toxins, reducing stress, and even boosting mood.

Here are five of the best air-purifying plants to keep your home fresh and toxin-free.

1. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Removes: Formaldehyde, xylene, trichloroethylene, benzene, and ammonia.

The Peace Lily is one of NASA’s top-rated plants for air purification. Not only does it remove a variety of toxins from the air, but it also produces elegant white or purple flowers that enhance any room’s aesthetic. Peace Lilies thrive in indirect sunlight and prefer moist soil, making them easy to care for. However, they are toxic to both humans and pets, so keep them out of reach of children and animals.

2. Bamboo Palm (Chrysalidocarpus Seifrizzi)

Removes: Formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.

Also known as the Reed Palm, the Bamboo Palm is an excellent natural humidifier, making it ideal for drier climates or homes with respiratory concerns. This plant thrives in indirect light and moderate temperatures, requiring consistently moist—but not overwatered—soil. Its ability to filter formaldehyde and other pollutants makes it a great addition to any living space.

3. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

Removes: Carbon monoxide, benzene, trichloroethylene, and formaldehyde.

The Chinese Evergreen is a low-maintenance plant that adds color and vibrancy to your home with its patterned leaves. It prefers medium to low light and high humidity, pairing well with the Bamboo Palm for optimal air purification. However, it is toxic to pets, so be mindful of its placement if you have dogs or cats at home.

4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum Comosum)

Removes: Formaldehyde, xylene, carbon monoxide, mold, and allergens.

The Spider Plant is one of the easiest houseplants to maintain, making it perfect for beginners. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and requires only occasional watering. Its small size doesn’t limit its impact—this plant is a powerhouse when it comes to filtering toxins. Additionally, Spider Plants produce baby offshoots, allowing you to propagate new plants effortlessly. Unlike many other air-purifying plants, it is completely non-toxic, making it a safe choice for homes with children and pets.

5. Garden Mums (Chrysanthemum Morifolium)

Removes: Xylene, benzene, formaldehyde, and ammonia.

Garden Mums are one of the most powerful air-purifying plants available. Their ability to eliminate ammonia from the environment makes them especially effective. Beyond their air-cleaning properties, these plants offer a variety of vibrant blooms in red, yellow, and white, bringing a burst of color to your indoor space. They require bright light, cool temperatures, and regular watering. As a bonus, you can transplant them outdoors in the spring. Keep in mind that Garden Mums are toxic to pets, so ensure they are placed out of reach of animals.

Breathe Easier with Indoor Plants

Adding air-purifying plants to your home is a simple yet effective way to enhance indoor air quality, boost your mood, and bring a touch of greenery into your space. As winter transitions to spring, consider transplanting some of these plants outdoors and preparing your yard for the warmer months ahead.

At Hackmann Lawn & Landscaping, we specialize in hardscaping projects that transform outdoor spaces into beautiful, functional environments. Contact us today to learn more about our winter discounts on hardscaping services!


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