The effects pollutants are having on air quality in the capital is being talked about a lot in the news currently, with solutions being proposed by London Mayor Sadik Khan. We’ve put together this list of five plants which will live happily in your home, whilst also improving the air quality of your surroundings.
Aloe Vera
Aloe is an easy-to-grow succulent which thrives in the sun, making it a perfect pot plant to have sitting on your windowsill. As well as looking pretty, it helps remove benzene and formaldehyde from the air, two chemicals which can be present after the use of chemical-based cleaners.
Spider plant
If growing things isn’t your strong point, then the indestructible nature of the spider plant means it could be the perfect plant for you. They remove benzene, formaldehyde, carbon monoxide and xylene, and like cool-moderate temperatures, bright sunlight, and dark soil.
The especially great thing about spider plants, is how easy they are to grow new ones. You simply cut off one of the ‘spiders’ that it shoots, and plant it in a pot!
African violets
If your home is low on natural light, then don’t worry – African violets stull thrive under artificial light. If you’re looking to match your home’s interior, then this little air purifying plant comes in a huge variety of different colours – a feast for the eyes. It is also non-toxic, and safe to have growing around pets.
English Ivy
Although it can be seen as a bit of a nuisance in an un-contained, outdoor habitat, English Ivy is great for air purifying, and won’t invade your home if kept in a small pot. It likes damp conditions – so remember to keep it watered!
Chrysanthemums
Not only can you buy them in gorgeous colours of nearly every colour to match your interior, but Chrysanthemums are also on NASA’s list of top researched air cleaning plants. They’re especially great at removing benzene from the air, a chemical which can be found in glue, paint, plastics and detergent.
Again, chrysanthemums love bright light, so the windowsill is an ideal home for them.