The moment you step into a workplace adorned with vibrant and lush indoor plants, you’ll almost certainly feel the rejuvenating energy that permeates the air. It’s not just about aesthetics; those green wonders actually hold the key to unlocking a wide range of psychological benefits that have been scientifically proven.
While we’ve long recognised the calming effect of nature, the benefits of indoor plants go far beyond visual appeal. They have the remarkable ability to enhance mental health, promote overall well-being, and even purify the air we breathe. As the world embraces the concept of biophilic design, which integrates natural elements indoors, it’s no wonder that more and more offices are researching which indoor plants purify the air.
In this article, we’ll delve into the five of the best indoor plants for clean air in your office.
How Do Indoor Plants Help Air Quality?
Plants purify the air through a process called phytoremediation. They absorb gases and airborne pollutants, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), through their leaves’ stomata. Inside the plant, these pollutants are broken down and transformed into harmless byproducts.
But that’s not all: plants also release oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis, improving the air quality by increasing oxygen levels. This natural filtration system helps remove toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene from indoor environments, resulting in cleaner and healthier air for us to breathe.
The best indoor plants to improve air quality
These five air-purifying champions are some of the best indoor plants for clean air, naturally filtering harmful pollutants and releasing fresh oxygen to create a revitalised workspace.
1. Philodendron
Renowned for its lush and lengthy foliage, the philodendron is one of the best indoor plants for air quality. Backed by research conducted by the University of Technology, this resilient plant boasts a plethora of health benefits. As an unrivalled combatant against excess carbon dioxide and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) lurking in offices, the philodendron emerges as one of the best indoor plants to improve air quality.
With VOCs notorious for inducing drowsiness and triggering headaches, it’s no wonder that this humble indoor air purifying plant takes centre stage, promising a breath of fresh air and a vibrant atmosphere that boosts focus and efficiency. And if that’s not enough to convince you, the philodendron is one of the most durable air purifying indoor plants for offices.
2. Snake Plant
While many workplaces require dim or low lighting, employees can often become depressed when working in dark and enclosed spaces. This is where the Snake Plant comes in to save the day.
The Snake Plant (also known as the Sansevieria) is a hardy indoor plant for air quality with a quirky appearance. Its striking foliage not only adds vibrancy to a room but also serves as a natural air purifier, diligently absorbing particulate matter and VOCs. By creating a healthier and fresher atmosphere, the snake plant becomes an indispensable companion, ensuring that employees thrive amidst their work, rejuvenated by cleaner air and invigorating greenery.
3. Peace Lily
Bathed in symbolism and revered in both Chinese tradition and Feng Shui principles, the Peace Lily emerges as an embodiment of peace and tranquillity, living up to its name in every way. With its ethereal beauty, this lily effortlessly becomes the focal point of any office space, casting a spell of serenity upon all who encounter it. Not only does the Peace Lily possess an enchanting presence, but it also possesses a remarkable adaptability, thriving gracefully in low-light areas and even enduring cold, dry environments.
However, what truly sets the Peace Lily apart is its astonishing talent for purifying the air. Backed by the famous NASA Clean Air Study, this botanical wonder stands out as a true hero in the battle against toxic gases. With exceptional prowess, it breaks down and neutralises an array of harmful substances, including carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and benzene.
4. Dracaena
Also celebrated by NASA for its exceptional air-purifying abilities, the formidable Dracaena cincta (also known as Dracaena marginata) has earned its rightful place as one of the world’s most popular office plants. Renowned for its ability to absorb VOCs, the Dracaena also possesses the unique ability to capture traces of acetone, further enhancing the overall air quality of its environment.
Beyond its functional prowess, the dracaena’s aesthetic charm means that the plant can complement any type of office decor. Often used as a screening plant, it creates a verdant oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of a busy office, offering respite and tranquillity.
5. Agave
Looking for a plant that’s both attractive and low maintenance? The agave is a drought-resistant succulent that thrives gracefully in pots, making it an ideal choice for any workplace seeking a touch of natural beauty.
But the agave offers much more than just its looks: this striking plant shares the remarkable ability of the above plants to filtrate harmful VOCs. By purifying the air, the agave actively creates a healthier and more invigorating work environment, allowing productivity to flourish.
As an incredibly versatile plant, the agave can actually be used as a topical application for wounds, as a food additive to lower cholesterol. How healthy is that!
Related Article: How do plants increase productivity?
Ready to transform your office space with the beauty and benefits of air purifying indoor plants? The Plant Man’s team is here to help you create a thriving green oasis in your workplace that enhances productivity and well-being. Contact us today to find out about hiring indoor plants and get started on introducing nature’s touch to your workplace.
