Indoor plants, often called “oxy plants,” enhance indoor air quality and produce oxygen, integrating seamlessly into home environments. They offer a natural way to foster healthier living spaces.
The Benefits of Oxy Plants for Indoor Air
Oxy plants purify indoor air through phytoremediation, absorbing common airborne pollutants. These pollutants, including formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, and trichloroethylene, off-gas from household items like furniture, cleaning products, and building materials. Plants draw these volatile organic compounds (VOCs) through their leaves and roots, where soil microbes break them down into less harmful substances.
Plants also maintain healthy oxygen levels through photosynthesis, converting carbon dioxide into oxygen. This natural exchange refreshes indoor environments. Beyond air purification and oxygenation, indoor plants can increase humidity, benefiting respiratory health in dry conditions. Plants can also reduce stress and improve mood.
Top Air-Purifying Plants for Your Home
The effectiveness of air-purifying plants was highlighted in NASA’s Clean Air Study, which identified several species capable of removing harmful toxins.
The Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) effectively removes formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, toluene, and nitrogen oxides. This resilient, low-maintenance plant tolerates low light and infrequent watering, uniquely releasing oxygen at night, making it suitable for bedrooms. The Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) targets formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, xylene, and ammonia. It thrives in indirect light with consistently moist soil and can also help reduce mold spores.
The Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) removes formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, and carbon monoxide. This easy-care plant prefers indirect sunlight and tolerates various temperatures. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a versatile vine that filters benzene, formaldehyde, toluene, carbon monoxide, and xylene. Pothos adapts to various lighting conditions, from low to bright indirect light.
The ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is resilient and removes xylene, toluene, and benzene. It tolerates low light and requires minimal watering. The Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens) removes formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene, and increases humidity. This plant prefers bright, indirect light and moist soil. The Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) specializes in removing formaldehyde and xylene, thriving in high humidity and indirect light with regular watering.
Essential Care Tips for Oxy Plants
Consistent care keeps oxy plants healthy and effective air purifiers. Most indoor plants thrive in indirect light. Avoiding direct, intense sunlight prevents leaf scorching, while insufficient light hinders growth and purification. Rotate plants periodically for even light exposure.
Proper watering is important; overwatering causes root rot. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry before watering, checking moisture with a finger. Well-draining potting mixes are essential to prevent water pooling around roots.
Maintain a stable indoor temperature, generally 65-75°F (18-24°C). Many air-purifying plants benefit from moderate to high humidity. Regular misting or humidifiers can help. Fertilize during the active growing season (spring and summer), usually every 2-4 weeks. Reduce or cease fertilization during fall and winter dormancy. Regularly inspect for pests and treat promptly to ensure plant vigor.
Maximizing the Impact of Your Plants
Strategic placement and maintenance optimize the air-purifying benefits of your oxy plants. Place plants in areas with higher foot traffic or concentrated household pollutants to enhance effectiveness. For example, a snake plant in a bedroom improves air quality during sleep due to its nighttime oxygen release. Plants in living areas or home offices address VOCs from furniture and electronics.
The number of plants needed depends on room size and pollution levels. A general recommendation is one plant for every 100 square feet of indoor space, though more may be needed for larger rooms or higher pollutant concentrations. Grouping plants can create a localized microclimate with increased humidity and concentrated purification.
Maintain plant health to ensure they remain effective air purifiers. Regularly wipe dust from leaves for efficient photosynthesis and pollutant absorption, as dust impedes these processes. Occasional repotting into a slightly larger container with fresh potting mix prevents root bound conditions and replenishes soil nutrients. Pruning yellowing or dead leaves directs the plant’s energy towards healthy growth.