A study conducted by National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) & Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA) examined popular varieties of ornamental plants to determine their effectiveness in removing several key pollutants associated with indoor air pollution.
What they found, besides indoor plants being extremely effective in the removal of toxins, was a list of the best 10 house plants for removing said toxins. These plants were most effective in removing formaldehyde, benzene, tricholoethylene, and carbon monoxide.
Those plants are:
1. Bamboo palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii) (LOW MAINTENANCE)
source: crocus.co.uk
2. Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema modestum)
source: www.veldkampsflowers.com
3. English ivy (Hedera helix)
source: www.nurserylive.com
4. Gerbera daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)
source: www.cambridgeflorist.com
5. Janet Craig (Dracaena fragrans "Janet Craig") (LOW MAINTENANCE)
source: www.plantingman.com
6. Marginata (Dracaena marginata) (LOW MAINTENANCE)
source: www.plantz.com
7. Mass cane/corn plant (Dracaena fragrans "Massangeana") (LOW MAINTENANCE)
source: www.homedepot.com
8. Mother-in-law's tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata laurentii)
source: www.crocus.co.uk
9. Potted mum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) (LOW MAINTENANCE)
source: www.walmart.com
10. Peace lily (Spathiphyllum "Mauna Loa") (LOW MAINTENANCE)
source: www.ftd.com
Some others include: Spier Plants, Dragon Tree, Nephytis, Dracaena Warneckii, Heart Leaf Philodendron, Weeping Fig, Elephant Ear Philodendron, Areca Palm & Snake Plant.
Before purchasing any of these plants for your home, be aware that some may be toxic to any fur babies you have lurking around. We've found that all 40 versions of Dracaena plants are toxic to cats & dogs when eaten. Do your research before any purchases (because we love our fur babies)!
We also want to note that although house plants are beneficial for bringing moisture into your home's air, be aware that this may spur microorganism growth in already humid climates. Be sure to implement proper air ventilation into any home to avoid overgrowth of molds & pollens.
Happy Planting!
