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There’s something magical about bringing the outside in. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, indoor plants have become our modern homes’ ultimate mood-lifters and space-transformers.
But these green companions offer so much more than just style points!
Back in 1989, a clean air study by NASA (yes, really) discovered something fascinating: certain plants actually purify our indoor air, filtering out common pollutants.
Fast forward to today, and the benefits keep stacking up. Studies show that our leafy friends can:
- Boost mood & creativity
- Reduce stress levels
- Increase concentration & productivity
As we continue spending considerable time in our indoor spaces, these green allies have become more valuable than ever. Their ability to create healthier environments makes them essential additions to our homes and workspaces.
For the plant-curious who haven’t yet ventured into plant parenthood, choosing your first green baby may seem tricky, that’s why we’ve carefully selected plants that excel in air purification and wellness benefits.
While some may need specific care to thrive, there are some low-maintenance options on this list that will make you feel ‘green-finger’ certified.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria Trifasciata)
These plants are great for those who can be (unintentionally) neglectful since they require minimal care.
QUICK FACTS:
- Removes harmful cancer-causing pollutants like CO2, benzene, formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene.
- Releases oxygen converting CO2 (carbon dioxide) to O2 (oxygen).
- Helps to fight allergies by releasing moisture in the air and lessening airborne allergens.
Pictured: Snake plant from Beards & Daisies (From £14.99)
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Commonly described as White Bird of Paradise; Wild Banana, this plant loves the sun!
QUICK FACTS:
- Likes a moist environment – mist him regularly to keep his leaves happy.
- Can grow up to 2 metres tall.
- Air-purifying qualities.
- Toxic to pets if ingested.
- Bathrooms and kitchens are the ideal locations.
Pictured: Nicolau (Strelitzia Nicolai) from Patch (From £60.00)
3. Areca Palm (Dypsis Lutescens)
The Areca Palm is native to the Madagascan tropics, this plant is sometimes referred to as the Golden Feather Palm or Butterfly Palm
QUICK FACTS:
- Resembles a palm tree, great for creating a holiday feel at home!
- Loves bright indirect light.
- Helps to relieve dry skin.
- Safe around cats and dogs.
Pictured: Areca Palm from The Stem (From £12.00)
4. Monstera Deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)
This plant is native to the tropical rainforests of Southern Mexico and Panama. Its Latin name ‘monstera deliciosa’ translates to ‘delicious monster’.
QUICK FACTS:
- Toxic to pets if ingested.
- Likes to be kept moist, but not soggy.
- Its leaves are often seen as a graphic image on anything from wallpaper to cushions.
Pictured: Chaz (Swiss Cheese Plant) from Patch (From £14.00)
Aloe Vera originates from the Arabian Peninsula, but it also grows wild in tropical and semi-tropical climates around the world.
QUICK FACTS:
- Widely used for medicinal purposes since the 16th century.
- The gel contains bio-active compounds including vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and amino acids.
- Toxic to pets if ingested.
Pictured: Aloe Vera Plant from Bakker (£12.99 incl pot)
6. Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum Aureum)
The origin of this almost un-killable plant stretches across Northern Australia, China, Japan, and India.
QUICK FACTS:
- Is fine in most light conditions, but grows faster in a brighter area.
- Likes lots of humidity so is perfect for a kitchen or bathroom.
- Air-purifying.
- Toxic to children & pets if consumed.
Pictured: Rapunzel (Devil’s Ivy plant) from Patch (£15.00)
7. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
As its name would suggest, the Peace lily represents peace, prosperity, tranquillity, solitude, and purification.
QUICK FACTS:
- Great air-purifier.
- Doesn’t like cold draughts.
- Likes regular misting.
- Removes harmful toxins such as ammonia, formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.
- Low maintenance.
Pictured: Peace Lily from The Stem (From £12.00)
8. Basil (Ocumum Basilicum)
Yes…the herb you may already have in your kitchen. Not only does it smell amazing, but this Southeast Asian native can also do wonders for your mood.
QUICK FACTS:
- Often used in aromatherapy due to its high linalool content.
- Reduces stress and anxiety.
- Likes moisture, but not soaking wet.
- Thrives best in a south-facing spot.
- You can eat it! (obviously).
Pictured: Basil Plant from Cavendish Home (£18.50)
9. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis Exaltata)
Also known as the “Sword Fern”, the Boston fern can be found in the forests and swamps of Central and South America, the West Indies, and Africa.
QUICK FACTS:
- Removes harmful toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde.
- Often displayed in a hanging basket.
- Really loves humidity, so would be great for the bathroom.
Pictured: Boston Fern from Leaf Envy (From £10)
10. Red Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema Crete)
This plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia.
QUICK FACTS:
- Introduced to the UK in the late 1800s, it has become a very popular houseplant due to its low maintenance.
- The red-accented leaves would give a lush and vibrant feel to any space.
- Tolerant of all light conditions (except direct light.)
Pictured: Chinese Evergreen from Hortology (£18.99)
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Wrapping It Up
These aren’t just your average decorative greens – they’re the perfect indoor plants for creating that healthy-home vision you’ve been manifesting.
Each one is a certified air-purifying superstar, ready to detoxify your space while serving serious style.
Pro tip? Think strategically about placement. Your new green friends will work their magic best in spots with good air flow – that forgotten corner by your WFH setup or near the kitchen could be ideal.
Once you see these beauties in action, you’ll wonder how you lived without them.
