The bedroom is a sanctuary designed for rest and recovery, making the selection of indoor plants a careful consideration. While many species enhance the indoor environment, certain plants are not suited for a sleeping area due to inherent biological characteristics. Some common houseplants introduce unnecessary risks, particularly in homes with small children or pets. It is prudent to focus on plants that should be avoided to maintain a peaceful and secure atmosphere.
Plants That Pose Safety Risks
The primary concern with certain houseplants is their inherent toxicity upon ingestion. Many ornamental plants contain chemical compounds that serve as natural defenses, causing reactions ranging from mild irritation to severe internal damage in humans and animals. This risk is pronounced for species containing insoluble calcium oxalates, which are microscopic, needle-shaped crystals present in the sap of many popular indoor plants.
When a pet or child chews on a plant like the Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum), Philodendron, or Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), these oxalate crystals are released, causing immediate and intense pain. The mechanical irritation leads to a burning sensation in the mouth, throat, and tongue, often resulting in excessive drooling, swelling, and difficulty swallowing. The Dieffenbachia, often called “dumb cane,” is notorious because its oxalate content can cause temporary impairment of speech due to severe oral swelling.
Other plant toxins pose different dangers, making identification prior to placement a necessity. The Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta), for example, is a cycad whose seeds and leaves contain a potent toxin called cycasin. Ingestion of this compound can lead to liver failure and neurological issues, making it one of the most dangerous houseplants for pets. Even plants like Aloe Vera, which have beneficial external uses, contain saponins and anthraquinones that can cause vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhea if the leaf is ingested.
Sleep Disruptors and Allergenic Plants
Plants that interfere with sleep quality, even if non-toxic, are unsuitable for the bedroom. This disruption often stems from the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that create strong, sometimes overpowering fragrances. Certain flowering plants intensify their scent release at night, a biological strategy to attract nocturnal pollinators.
A prime example is the Gardenia, whose sweet scent can become cloying in an enclosed space, potentially triggering headaches or nausea in sensitive individuals. Similarly, the Arabian Jasmine (Jasminum sambac) and the Hoya produce intense, sweet aromas that may make falling asleep difficult. These powerful fragrances, while pleasant to some, can be too stimulating for a room dedicated to deep rest.
Beyond scent, some plants release high levels of allergens that compromise respiratory health during the night. Certain ferns, for instance, reproduce by releasing large numbers of spores, which can act as irritants and trigger allergic reactions similar to pollen. Flowering bulbs like Hyacinth are known for their potent perfume and can shed pollen that may aggravate nighttime allergies. Introducing any plant with a high pollen count or a heavy, nocturnal scent can compromise sleep quality through respiratory irritation or sensory overload.
Addressing Common Bedroom Plant Concerns
A frequently cited reason for avoiding plants in the bedroom is the misconception that they significantly deplete the room’s oxygen supply at night. This belief stems from the fact that plants engage in cellular respiration in the dark, consuming oxygen and releasing a small amount of carbon dioxide. However, the quantity of oxygen a typical houseplant consumes is negligible, amounting to less than 0.1% of the room’s oxygen. An average human consumes vastly more oxygen than a few potted plants, making the concern about asphyxiation scientifically unfounded.
Other practical issues unrelated to toxicity or respiration can make certain plants undesirable for a clean, restful bedroom. Plants prone to attracting pests introduce unwelcome insects into the sleeping environment. Species like Palms, Figs, and certain Philodendrons are susceptible to spider mites, which thrive in the dry air often found indoors during winter.
Plants requiring consistently moist soil, such as those that are frequently overwatered, can become breeding grounds for fungus gnats. These small, mosquito-like insects are mostly a nuisance, flying around the plant and emerging from the soil. Furthermore, some plants are simply too messy; the Hoya, for example, can drip sticky nectar from its flowers, creating a maintenance issue on furniture or floors.