The Best 15 Houseplants For A Healthy Home

Houseplants can transform a sterile living space into a lush and healthy environment while also providing many benefits. Indoor plants are a great way to purify the air, add visual appeal to a room, and promote relaxation. They can also help to boost mood and reduce stress levels, which is why they are increasingly sought after by nature enthusiasts. However, finding the perfect houseplant for your living space might be a challenge. When it comes to selecting a healthy houseplant for your home, a variety of factors such as light conditions, watering needs, and air-purifying benefits should be considered. So, We’ve compiled a list of the 15 best houseplants to help you make an informed decision about which plants to add to your home and why.

1. Spider Plant

The spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is a popular and low-maintenance indoor plant with air-purifying benefits. It effectively removes formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, and other toxic air impurities. Additionally, it is known for its ability to produce oxygen while absorbing carbon dioxide.

Spider plants thrive in bright to moderate indirect sunlight, making them a great choice for indoor locations that receive natural light. It is important to keep their soil moist, but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.

One of the best things about spider plants is their easy care requirements. They are forgiving and can survive in less than ideal conditions, making them a great choice for those who struggle to keep plants alive. Furthermore, they can produce “offsets,” or baby spider plants, which can be separated and used as starter plants.

In addition to their air-purifying benefits, spider plants are believed to have mental health benefits. Studies have shown that having plants in the home can reduce stress levels and improve sleep quality.

2. Snake Plant

The Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata), also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is a popular and easy-to-care-for houseplant that offers a lot of benefits. According to Healthline, this resilient plant has the ability to improve indoor air quality by removing harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) from the air, including benzene, formaldehyde, and xylene.

In addition to its air-purifying qualities, the Snake Plant is a low maintenance plant that can tolerate any type of lighting, from low to bright. It also has minimal water needs, making it a great choice for those who tend to forget about their plants.

As a popular houseplant, the Snake Plant is valued for its striking upright leaves that come in different variegated colors and patterns. It’s no wonder why it has earned the name ‘Mother-in-Law’s Tongue’ due to its sharp, pointed leaves.

3. Peace Lily

Peace Lilies are a popular choice for houseplants due to their air purifying benefits. According to the NASA Clean Air Study, peace lilies are effective at absorbing compounds like ammonia, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene, which can be found in everyday household items like cleaning agents and furniture. These harmful compounds contribute to indoor air pollution and can increase the risk of certain health problems. Peace Lilies help to remove these chemicals from the air, making them an excellent addition to any home.

To ensure the optimal growth of your peace lily, it’s important to keep them in an area with bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight could scorch the leaves and too little light would prevent growth and bloom. Peace Lilies are also relatively easy to care for and prefer soil that holds moisture, but not constantly wet soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues.

4. Rubber Plant

The Rubber Plant is a popular choice for indoor plants, thanks to its attractive foliage and air-purifying benefits. The glossy, deep green leaves add a touch of elegance to any decor and have been shown to improve indoor air quality by removing organic compounds like formaldehyde and carbon monoxide.

To keep your Rubber Plant thriving, it’s important to provide it with bright but indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while high temperatures can cause the plant to wilt. The Rubber Plant also prefers its soil to be kept relatively moist but not waterlogged, so make sure to allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.

Additionally, wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or misting them with water can help prevent dust buildup and spider mites. With proper care, your Rubber Plant can grow into a beautiful and healthy addition to your home.

5. Philodendron

If you’re looking for an easy-care plant with attractive leaves, look no further than the Philodendron. These plants have glossy, waxy leaves with a smooth texture that are pleasing to the eye. Not only that, but they’re also great at trapping dust and humidifying the air, which makes them an ideal choice for people who suffer from allergies or live in dry climates.

Philodendrons are relatively easy to care for and don’t require much attention. They thrive in indirect light or partial shade, but can also tolerate low light conditions. When it comes to watering, it’s best to let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot and cause the leaves to turn yellow.

To maintain the appearance of a Philodendron plant, it is recommended to periodically wipe its leaves with a damp cloth to eliminate dust. Changes in leaf color, such as yellowing or browning, may indicate an imbalance in the plant’s light exposure. If the leaves start to yellow or turn brown, it could be a sign that the plant is getting too much or too little light. Adjust accordingly to prevent further damage.

6. Dracaena

Dracaena plants are well-known for their air-purifying benefits, making them a popular choice for indoor environments. There are various Dracaena varieties, each with their unique health benefits.

The NASA Clean Air Study found that all Dracaena species are effective at removing organic compounds from the air. Some of the most common Dracaena varieties include the Dracaena marginata, Dracaena fragrans, and Dracaena reflexa.

The Dracaena marginata, also known as the Dragon Tree, can remove formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene from the air. It thrives in low to medium indirect light and requires watering with distilled or rainwater. Avoid exposing the Dragon Tree to temperatures below 50°F or above 85°F.

The Dracaena fragrans, also known as the Corn Plant, effectively removes formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air. It does well in low indirect light and should be watered with distilled or rainwater. The Corn Plant is sensitive to extreme temperatures and should be kept away from cold or hot air.

The Dracaena reflexa, also known as the Song of India, is great for removing formaldehyde from the air. It prefers bright, indirect light and should be watered regularly with distilled or rainwater. Extreme temperatures should be avoided with the Song of India.

7. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a versatile plant which can be used for various purposes. Not only is it known for its healing properties, but it is also an excellent air purifier. The gel inside the Aloe Vera leaves can soothe sunburned skin, relieve itchy rashes, and even help with acne. The plant can also remove harmful chemicals from the air, making it an ideal houseplant for improving indoor air quality.

Aloe Vera needs bright light to thrive, which makes it a perfect plant for windowsills and well-lit rooms. It can adapt to different conditions, but it prefers well-draining soil and only needs to be watered occasionally.

In addition to its healing and air-purifying benefits, Aloe Vera also has many internal health benefits. Known to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion, it is often used in juices, smoothies, and other health drinks.

8. Bamboo

Bamboo plant is not only an aesthetic addition to indoor gardening, but it is also a natural air purifier. According to NASA’s clean air study, bamboo plant is one of the best houseplants for improving indoor air quality, as it absorbs formaldehyde, benzene, carbon monoxide, xylene, and chloroform from the air.

Besides its air-purifying benefits, bamboo plant is also known to reduce stress levels and boost mental health. It creates a calming environment with its green leaves and unique structure. However, to maintain its health benefits, the bamboo plant requires proper care.

Provide your bamboo plant with bright indirect light for a minimum of 4 hours daily. Water the bamboo weekly, and let its soil thoroughly dry before the next watering to prevent root rot. Also, keep it in a humid environment, as it doesn’t tolerate dry air.

9. English Ivy

English Ivy is a popular choice of houseplant due to its air-purifying benefits, making it an ideal plant for those with asthma or allergies. Not only does it purify the air, but it also absorbs mold and has anti-inflammatory properties, granting relief to people with allergies or asthma.

To maintain the health benefits of English Ivy, it requires proper care. It thrives in a humid environment, with moist soil and indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight and high temperatures can damage the leaves, so placing it in a shaded or well-lit area is necessary. Water the plant regularly, but ensure the soil is not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.

In addition to its air-purifying properties, English Ivy is an attractive trailing plant that is a great choice for hanging baskets or climbing walls. Taking care of this plant can provide a sense of accomplishment and a beautiful aesthetic to any home.

10. Fiddle Leaf Fig

The Fiddle Leaf Fig is a popular houseplant that has taken the home decor world by storm. Besides its attractiveness, this plant has air-purifying benefits. It can filter harmful chemicals out of the air, making it a great addition to any home.

The Fiddle Leaf Fig requires bright indirect light, so it’s essential to place it near a window that allows filtered light, but not direct sunlight. Dusting the leaves is also crucial to avoid clogging the stomata, which are the tiny openings responsible for the plant’s respiration. Keep the leaves dust-free by wiping them with a damp cloth regularly.

It’s crucial to maintain the right amount of moisture for the Fiddle Leaf Fig to thrive. Overwatering may lead to root rot, while underwatering may cause its leaves to turn brown. Therefore, it’s best to keep the soil slightly moist, not too wet or too dry. It would be best to let the plant absorb water until the top inch of soil is dry before watering it again, usually every seven to ten days.

11. Chinese Evergreen

The Chinese Evergreen is a popular indoor plant known for its air-purifying benefits. It’s an excellent addition to any space, whether at home or in the office, as it helps to remove toxins like benzene and formaldehyde from the air.

This houseplant thrives in low to medium indirect light, but it can also tolerate low-light conditions. It’s best to avoid direct sunlight as it may scorch the leaves. The Chinese Evergreen can grow up to three feet tall and wide, making it an ideal choice for decorating small spaces.

When it comes to watering, the Chinese Evergreen prefers moist soil. However, it’s important not to over-water it as it may cause root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering the plant. It’s recommended to water every one to two weeks, depending on the humidity of the environment.

By adding a Chinese Evergreen to your indoor space, you’ll not only improve the air quality but also promote positive energy flow. This easy-to-care-for plant is an excellent choice for those looking for a low-maintenance indoor plant that adds both style and function to any room.

12. Pothos

Pothos, also known as Epipremnum aureum, is a popular houseplant choice for its air-purifying benefits and low-maintenance care. With its heart-shaped leaves and cascading vines, it adds a visual appeal to any space.

This houseplant prefers bright and indirect sunlight, making it a great choice for areas that receive natural light, but not direct sunlight. It can also tolerate low-light conditions, but it may slow down its growth. Overwatering is a common mistake when caring for Pothos, so it’s essential to allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering the plant. Typically, watering once a week is preferred.

Pothos has been found to remove harmful indoor air pollutants, making it an excellent choice for improving indoor air quality. Its ability to remove volatile organic compounds like formaldehyde and benzene can help improve sleep quality and reduce stress levels.

13. Golden Pothos

The Golden Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is a low-maintenance houseplant that is perfect for beginners. It not only adds a touch of greenery to your living space, but it also helps purify the air. According to a NASA Clean Air Study, Pothos removes harmful toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide from the air, making it a perfect choice for a healthy home.

This plant can grow up to 6-10 feet long, so make sure to give it enough space to spread out. It prefers bright but indirect sunlight, making it perfect for areas that receive natural light, but not direct sunlight. Watering once every 1-2 weeks is enough to keep the plant healthy, overwatering can cause root rot leading to the death of the plant.

It’s important to be wary of the oxalate content present in the Pothos plant as it can be harmful, especially for pets and young children who might eat the leaves. Oxalate can cause vomiting, mouth irritation and swelling, and trouble breathing. It’s best to place the plant out of reach of pets and children.

14. Areca Palm

The Areca Palm is a popular houseplant known for its air-purifying benefits. Its feathery fronds and ability to grow up to 6-7 feet tall make it a great choice for adding a tropical touch to any room.

This plant thrives in bright but indirect light, so it’s perfect for areas that receive natural light, but not direct sunlight. Consistently moist soil is important for the Areca Palm to stay healthy, so watering once a week is recommended.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the Areca Palm is prized for its ability to remove harmful organic compounds from the air. It’s an ideal plant for individuals looking to improve the air quality in their homes.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, popular houseplant that not only adds beauty to your home but also promotes good health, the Areca Palm is an excellent choice. Remember to keep it away from direct sunlight and to maintain consistently moist soil for best results.

15. ZZ Plant

The ZZ Plant, also known as Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is a beloved houseplant for its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements. Its shiny, deep green leaves add a touch of elegance to any indoor space, while its drought-tolerant nature makes it an easy plant to care for. The ZZ Plant thrives even in low light conditions, making it a perfect addition to rooms with less natural light.

Apart from its aesthetic appeal, the ZZ Plant is also known for its ability to remove toxins like benzene, xylene, and toluene from the air, improving indoor air quality and making it a healthy choice for your home.

In addition to its health benefits, the ZZ Plant is also culturally significant as a bringer of friendship and prosperity, making it a popular housewarming gift. Its lush green leaves symbolize wealth and money, making it a thoughtful present for friends or family members moving into a new home.

With its attractive appearance, ease of care, and toxin-removing benefits, the ZZ Plant is a popular choice for any indoor space. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or a beginner, the ZZ Plant is sure to impress and thrive in your home.

Conclusion

In conclusion, incorporating indoor plants into your home decor offers numerous benefits for both your mental and physical health. From reducing stress levels to improving air quality, the psychological and physical benefits are extensive. However, it is important to understand the specific light and watering needs of each plant to ensure optimal growth and health. Seeking advice from garden centers can be helpful in selecting the right plant for your space and lifestyle. Resilient plants like spider plants, snake plants, and ZZ plants can be great options, and using self-watering globes can ensure their wellbeing even when you’re away. So go ahead and invest in some indoor foliage for your home, and enjoy both the beauty and health benefits they provide.