The 8 best house plants

and their benefits

February 2024 ■
Words by Georgie Ashworth

So what are the best house plants?

Spending time in the natural world is a sure-fire way to restore inner calm and happiness. So, it should come at no great surprise that brining greenery into our homes also ignites a similar feeling along with huge health benefits. But where to start?!

We have done the research and have pulled together a list of the best house plants, so you don’t have to.

1. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)

Benefits: Aloe Vera is not only known for its soothing properties for burns and skin irritations but also for its air-purifying abilities. It removes toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air, making it an excellent addition to any room. It is a low maintenance plant and you can find a huge array of sizes which makes this a great choice for awkward or small spaces.

Care: Aloe Vera thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and requires minimal watering. Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.

2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

Benefits: Often referred to as the "mother-in-law's tongue," the Snake Plant is a hardy species known for its ability to purify the air by removing toxins like formaldehyde and xylene. Additionally, this is one of the few house plant verities that releases oxygen at night which makes it ideal for placement in bedrooms. This is one of the best air purifying plants that you can add to your home.

 Care: Snake Plants are low-maintenance and can tolerate low light conditions. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Ideal for first time plant parents!

3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Benefits: Spider Plants are exceptional air-purifying plants, they are highly effective at removing pollutants such as formaldehyde and carbon monoxide from their environment. They also produce oxygen whilst absorbing carbon dioxide, promoting a more oxygen rich indoor atmosphere.

 Care: These plants prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. A house plant suited to intermediate expertise of care!

4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Benefits: Not only does the Peace Lily add elegance to any space with its lush green foliage and gorgeous white blooms (all year round), but it also acts as a natural air purifier. It effectively removes airborne toxins like ammonia, formaldehyde, and benzene, promoting better air quality and ultimately providing healthier living environments.

Care: Peace Lilies thrive in low to medium light conditions and require consistently moist soil. Keep them away from direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch. Let us know if you have a peace lilly that you would like us to water for you if you are away for a while!

 

5. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)

Benefits: With its large, gorgeous, glossy leaves, the Rubber Plant not only makes a bold statement but also helps purify indoor air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde. Its robust nature makes it an excellent choice for beginners.

Care: Place Rubber Plants in bright, indirect light and allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Wipe the leaves regularly to prevent dust buildup.

6. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

Benefits: Boston Ferns are prized for their lush, feathery fronds and air-purifying properties. They act as natural humidifiers, adding moisture to the air and helping to alleviate dry indoor conditions. A fern is a great addition to bathrooms, which are often plant free rooms.

Care: These ferns thrive in bright, indirect light and high humidity. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and mist the foliage regularly to maintain humidity levels.

 

7. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

Benefits: The ZZ Plant is celebrated for its ability to thrive in low-light conditions and its air-purifying qualities. It removes toxins like xylene, toluene, and benzene from the air, making the ZZ house plant, an excellent choice for offices or darker nooks and spaces within our homes.

 Care: ZZ Plants are incredibly resilient and require minimal care. Place them in low to bright indirect light and allow the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions. A perfect plant for people new to looking after plants, or frequent travellers.

8. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Benefits: Pothos, more commonly known as Devil's Ivy, is well known for its iconic trailing vines and air-purifying capabilities. It removes toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene from the air, making it an ideal choice for households.

Care: Pothos thrives in a variety of lighting conditions, from low to bright indirect light. Allow the soil to dry out between watering and trim the vines regularly to encourage bushier growth.

Incorporating a good mixture of these indoor plants into your home, will not only add to your aesthetic appeal but also promotes a healthier environment with beautifully purified air. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting out, there's a perfect plant for every home. So why wait? Elevate your indoor space with the beauty and benefits of house plants today!