The Best Air-Filtering Houseplants According To NASA

Although we cannot see it, the air around us is filled with toxins. This is why NASA decided to look for the best plants that can filter toxic agents in our environment. Interestingly, their findings revealed that most common houseplants are effective at detoxification.

Our homes and offices are usually filled with airborne toxins from everyday items. Formaldehyde can be found in paper bags and synthetic fibers while trichloroethylene is produced by printer ink and paint. However, there is a natural way to remove these toxins. Here are 8 of the best air-filtering houseplants.

1. Chrysanthemum morifolium (Florist’s Chrysanthemum)

It is also known as the Florist’s Daisy and blooms in several different colors. The houseplant requires direct sunlight so it’s best to place them close to the windows.

The Florist’s Chrysanthemum may be pretty but it can also be poisonous to animals. Keep them away from your pets at all times.

2. Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily)

The beautiful evergreen is easy to care for since it doesn’t need to be watered regularly. It’s a popular houseplant that could last for a long time.

The Peace Lily doesn’t require direct sunlight, unlike the Florist’s Daisy. However, it is also mildly toxic to animals so keep it away from your pet’s reach.

3. Dracaena reflexa (Red-Edged Dracaena)

The Red-Edged Dracaena gets its name from its pink-tipped leaves. It has small white flowers that soon turn into the little berries.

The berries are pretty but they are not safe to consume. Like most of the plants in the list, it is best to keep the shrub away from pets.

4. Sansevieria trifasciata (Snake Plant)

The Snake Plant is one of the best indoor plants you can find. It requires little maintenance and is very effective in detoxifying your environment.

The evergreen perennial plant thrives in bright sunlight. Just make sure not to water it too often.

5. Hedera helix (English Ivy)

The English Ivy is also known as the European Ivy. It is one of the best houseplants for removing airborne toxins.

Although it is popular as an outdoor plant, horticulturists suggest that it should be kept indoors for easy maintenance. The ivy has a tendency of spreading aggressively and is best kept inside the house.

6. Gerbera jamesonii (Barberton Daisy)

If you want a flowering plant, the Barberton Daisy is perfect for your home. It can add beauty and color to any living space.

Make sure that your Barberton Daisy gets plenty of natural light. You also need to be careful not to overwater the plant.

7. Rhapis excelsa (Lady Palm)

The Broadleaf Lady Palm is an evergreen small palm that doesn’t mind being kept in the dark. It can reach up to six feet tall and is beneficial to keeping the air clean.

You can choose to place the plant indoor or outdoor. The Lady Palm doesn’t need constant maintenance and is a popular choice for people with black thumbs.

8. Anthurium andraeanum (Flamingo Lily)

The Flamingo Lily is a true natural beauty. The houseplant blooms with gorgeous flowers that last for several weeks.

Although they look pretty, the plant can be toxic to animals. In addition to that, the Flamingo Lily requires humidity and its soil must be kept moist.