The air we breathe indoors can be just as polluted—if not more—than outdoor air. Pollutants from outside enter indoor spaces, where they circulate repeatedly. This contributes significantly to what’s known as "sick building syndrome" and has proven harmful effects on our health.

One effective way to improve indoor air quality is through interior plants. Compared to buying and installing multiple electronic air filters, investing in plants is a very cost-efficient method to purify the air. But how exactly do plants clean the air, and which plants do this best? Read on to find out.

NASA’s Research on Indoor Plants

NASA studied how plants purify air in controlled environments. Their goal was to see if plants could biologically clean the air in space stations and potential habitats on other planets, such as Mars.

Their research found that plants effectively remove harmful chemicals like:

  • Trichloroethylene
  • Formaldehyde
  • Benzene
  • Xylene
  • Ammonia

All of these chemicals are linked to health issues in humans and other mammals.

How Many Plants Are Needed to Purify Air?

It’s hard to give an exact number. At Ambius, we always recommend using as many plants as possible to make office spaces more pleasant. In tight interiors, a living green wall is an ideal way to add many plants in a small area. The more plants, the better.

Former NASA scientist Bill Wolverton suggested placing two “good” plants per 9.3 square meters. Large, green-leafed plants work best because they take in more surrounding air, naturally filtering pollutants and releasing clean oxygen back into the space.

Which Plants Purify the Air Best?

According to NASA’s research, chrysanthemums and peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) were most effective at cleaning the air. Other strong air-purifying plants identified include:

  • Phoenix Roebelenii
  • Nephrolepis (Boston fern) — which can be tricky indoors
  • Spider plant (Chlorophytum)
  • Aglaonema
  • Lilyturf (Liriope)
  • Ficus Benjamina
  • Rhapis excelsa (Lady palm)
  • Epipremnum (Pothos)
  • Anthurium
  • Dracaena

Almost all plants clean the air to some extent, but smaller plants are much less effective than larger ones with broader leaves.

What Can Indoor Plants Do for Your Business?

Plants offer many benefits beyond air purification.

Biophilia is the science behind humans’ innate connection to nature. People naturally desire to see and be near nature. Simply seeing green and natural elements can improve mental health, boost creativity, and offer various other health benefits. This connection can come from a view of nature outside or by bringing plants inside.

Seeing plants or natural colors (green and brown) can reduce presenteeism—when employees are physically present but mentally checked out. Plants also help reduce absenteeism and positively affect mood, mental health, creativity, and productivity.

Contact Ambius for Interior Plant Solutions

Of course, interior plants also make your office look fantastic. They are visually pleasing and have a calming effect. A living green wall can make your lobby or meeting room stand out. Plus, plants help purify air, reduce noise, and offer other advantages.

If you want your office to look better, smell fresher, and make employees feel better, contact Ambius today!