1. Peace Lily
Botanical Name: Spathiphyllum
Pollutants Removed
- Formaldehyde
- Benzene
- Trichloroethylene
How it Works
Peace Lilies are exceptional at absorbing airborne pollutants through their leaves and roots and converting them into harmless substances. They effectively remove formaldehyde, a pollutant commonly found in cigarette smoke.
Additional Benefits
The plant also increases humidity levels by transpiring water vapor during the natural photosynthetic process, which could benefit respiratory health.
2. Spider Plant
Botanical Name: Chlorophytum comosum
Pollutants Removed
- Formaldehyde
- Xylene
- Carbon monoxide
How it Works
Spider Plants efficiently perform photosynthesis at high rates, allowing them to purify air quickly. They can remove pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene, commonly found in cigarette smoke.
Additional Benefits
Spider Plants are non-toxic and safe for pets, making them a great option for households with animals.
3. Rubber Plant
Botanical Name: Ficus elastica
Pollutants Removed
- Formaldehyde
- Carbon dioxide
How it Works
Rubber Plants effectively remove pollutants by absorbing them through their large leaf surface area. Like the Peace Lily, Rubber Plants can effectively remove formaldehyde from the air.
Additional Benefits
Rubber Plants are also known for improving indoor air quality by converting CO2 into oxygen more efficiently than most plants.
Plants That Promote Oxygen Levels
4. Snake Plant
Botanical Name: Sansevieria trifasciata
- Nighttime Oxygenation: Unlike most plants, Snake Plants perform photosynthesis at night, converting CO2 into oxygen even when the sun is down.
Additional Benefits
- Air Purification: Snake Plants effectively remove pollutants like formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, and nitrogen oxides, often found in cigarette smoke.
- Low Maintenance: Snake Plants are hardy and require minimal care, making them an excellent choice for indoor spaces.
5. Areca Palm
Botanical Name: Chrysalidocarpus lutescens
- Daytime Oxygenation: Areca Palms are known for their high transpiration rates, which means they release a significant amount of water vapor that converts into oxygen during the daytime.
Additional Benefits
- Humidity Control: The plant is excellent for maintaining indoor humidity levels, which can benefit respiratory health.
- Air Purification: Areca Palms can remove pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene, improving air quality.
6. Pothos
Botanical Name: Epipremnum aureum
- Daytime Oxygenation: Like most plants, Pothos contributes to oxygen levels through standard photosynthesis during the day.
Additional Benefits
- Air Purification: Pothos effectively removes indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene.
- Low Maintenance: This plant is highly adaptable and can thrive in various indoor conditions, making it a practical choice for improving indoor air quality.
Plants That Remove Airborne Particles
7. Boston Fern
Botanical Name: Nephrolepis exaltata
Airborne Particles Removed
- Formaldehyde
- Xylene
How it Works
- Natural Air Humidifier: Boston Ferns act as natural humidifiers by releasing water vapor during transpiration, which can help trap airborne particles and pollutants.
- High Surface Area: The frilly leaves have a high surface area, effectively trapping pollutants from the air.
Additional Benefits
- Aesthetic Appeal: Their lush, green appearance adds a decorative element to indoor spaces.
8. Aloe Vera
Botanical Name: Aloe barbadensis miller
Airborne Particles Removed
- Formaldehyde
- Benzene
How it Works
- Succulent Properties: Aloe Vera is a succulent that can absorb pollutants through its leaves and roots, purifying the air.
- Gel Application: While not directly related to air purification, the gel from the Aloe Vera leaves has medicinal properties that can help treat minor burns and skin irritations.
Additional Benefits
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care and can thrive in various conditions.
9. Chrysanthemum
