There’s nothing like the crisp, refreshing feel of clean indoor air. With the right plants, you can achieve just that. However, not all greenery works the same way, so our experts have selected nine top-performing air-purifying plants to suit any space.
Why Air-Purifying Plants Matter in Biophilic Design
Plants do more than look good; they contribute to better air. They naturally filter toxins like formaldehyde (found in furniture, carpets, and cleaning products), benzene (released by plastics and paint), and carbon monoxide while boosting oxygen for a fresher, healthier environment. They also regulate humidity through transpiration, releasing moisture to combat dryness and create a more comfortable indoor environment.
How Plants Improve Air:
- ABSORBING POLLUTANTS: Plants act as natural air filters, removing harmful toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide through their stomata (tiny pores on their leaves). The Dragon Tree is particularly effective at filtering formaldehyde and benzene, making it an excellent choice for commercial spaces and offices. The Spider Plant also effectively removes carbon monoxide and formaldehyde, making it perfect for high-traffic areas.
- BOOSTING OXYGEN: Plants use photosynthesis, absorbing carbon dioxide (CO₂) and releasing Oxygen (O₂). Some, like the Snake Plant and Aloe Vera, do this even at night, making them ideal for bedrooms and hotel suites.
- REGULATING HUMIDITY: Certain plants release moisture through transpiration, helping to maintain indoor humidity levels and prevent dryness. The Areca Palm and Boston Fern are particularly effective and perfect for wellness centres, spas, and offices.
- ROOT-LEVEL PURIFICATION: Beyond their leaves, some plants purify the air at the root level. Their root systems and surrounding soil microbes work together to break down volatile organic compounds (VOCs) before they circulate in the air. The Peace Lily and Rubber Plant are particularly effective,
- CAPTURING DUST: Plants with broad leaves trap airborne particles, helping to reduce indoor air pollution. The Bird of Paradise captures dust, making it an excellent choice for hotel lounges, large atriums, and open-plan offices where air circulation is key. Regularly wiping the leaves enhances this natural filtration process.
Our Top Nine Air-Purification Plants
Here’s a breakdown of the best plants for specific areas based on their air-purifying qualities and characteristics:
1. ALOE VERA: Ideal for bedrooms, hotel suites, and well-lit areas
A practical, low-maintenance plant with medicinal properties. Its succulent leaves thrive in bright, indirect light and require well-draining soil.
2. ARECA PALM: Perfect for lobbies, lounges, and spas
This tropical plant enhances spaces with its tall, feathery fronds while naturally regulating humidity. Thrives in bright, indirect light
3. BIRD OF PARADISE: Ideal for hotel lounges, large atriums, and open-plan offices
This bold statement plant adds a sophisticated touch with its broad, tropical leaves and striking flowers when mature.
4. BOSTON FERN: Perfect for spas, restrooms, and humid spaces
This lush, humidity-loving plant enhances relaxation with its soft, cascading fronds and vibrant greenery.
5. DRAGON TREE: Perfect for modern offices and minimalist interiors
This sleek plant adds height and texture with its slender, upright leaves in various colours.
6. PEACE LILY: Perfect for reception areas and relaxation zones
Brings a calming presence with its elegant white flowers. Thrives in indirect light and humid conditions.
7. RUBBER PLANT: Perfect for lobbies, reception areas, and open office spaces
Ideal as a room divider or accent piece. Its natural beauty and bold presence make a striking statement in hospitality and commercial settings. Thrives in bright, indirect light and is easy to care for.
8. SNAKE PLANT: Perfect for low-light areas like offices, bedrooms, and hotel suites
Its modern, upright, sword-like leaves add a sleek touch to any space. Low-maintenance and extremely hardy, it continues to produce oxygen at night, enhancing well-being in your environment.
9. SPIDER PLANT: Ideal for lobbies, reception areas, commercial offices, and dining spaces
Its adaptability to varied lighting makes it great for overhead displays or hanging planters. Its cascading leaves bring a fresh, vibrant feel. The plant is easy to propagate, has low maintenance, and can tolerate some neglect.
At Leaflike, we carefully select and integrate air-purifying plants into our designs, tailoring each selection to the space’s needs and biophilic design principles. With the proper selection, every space can benefit from cleaner air, enhanced well-being, and a seamless connection to nature.
Ready to transform your space with the power of plants? Contact us today, and let’s bring the outdoors in!
WE’RE HERE TO HELP!
Please get in touch today and let us transform your space with the perfect blend of nature, sustainability, and innovation.
08000 282 888
designteam@leaflike.co.uk