In today’s hectic world, we all crave a bit of nature. That’s where biophilia comes in—it’s our natural desire to connect with nature and other living things. One simple way to satisfy this urge is by adding plants to our homes and workplaces.
I’ll share my top 10 plants that can help create a biophilic environment, bringing the calming and refreshing vibes of nature right into your daily life.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
The snake plant is a rock star when it comes to purifying indoor air. It’s especially good at getting rid of nasty stuff like formaldehyde and benzene. With its tall, upright leaves, it’s a stylish addition to any room. Plus, it’s super low-maintenance. You can stick it in a sunny spot or a dimly lit corner, and it’ll still thrive.
2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.)
The peace lily is not just pretty with its lush green leaves and elegant white flowers; it’s also a champ at cleaning the air. It’s great at removing pollutants like ammonia and trichloroethylene. And the best part? It doesn’t need much attention.
It can flourish in low light and only needs to be watered occasionally. Even in the darkest corners, this plant can bloom, adding a serene vibe to your home.
3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are perfect for beginners. They’re tough, easy to care for, and look fun with their long, arching leaves. These plants also help clean the air, making your home healthier. They like indirect light and regular watering but aren’t too fussy.
As they grow, they produce little “baby” spider plants that you can pot and grow more of, making them a great option for expanding your indoor garden.
4. Ficus Tree (Ficus benjamina)
The ficus tree, with its glossy leaves and graceful shape, is a stunning addition to any indoor space. It’s also fantastic at purifying the air, removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene.
Ficus trees need a bit more care than some other plants, but their beauty and air-cleaning benefits make it worth the effort. You can prune them to keep them the size and shape you like, adding a sophisticated touch to your decor.
5. Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum)
Also known as pothos or golden pothos, devil’s ivy is loved for its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves. It’s incredibly easy to care for, thriving in various light conditions and needing only occasional watering. This plant is also an excellent air purifier, making it a popular choice for both homes and offices.
Hanging it in a macramé planter adds a bohemian charm to any room while improving air quality.
6. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
Rubber plants are bold and beautiful with their large, glossy leaves, which is perfect for biophilic like you and me. They’re also great at removing toxins like formaldehyde from the air. These plants prefer bright, indirect light and need regular watering.
As they grow, their trunks thicken, giving them a dramatic appearance that can be a focal point in any room.
7. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is perfect for those who aren’t natural green thumbs. It has thick, waxy leaves and needs minimal care. It does well in low light and doesn’t need much water. It’s excellent at purifying the air and removing toxins like xylene and toluene. Its glossy leaves add a modern, sophisticated look to any room.
8. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
Aloe vera is famous for its soothing properties, but it’s also great at purifying the air. It’s especially good at removing formaldehyde and benzene. Aloe vera is easy to care for, needing bright, indirect light and infrequent watering. Besides its air-purifying qualities, you can use its gel-filled leaves to soothe sunburns and minor skin irritations.
9. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston ferns are known for their delicate, feathery fronds and air-purifying properties. They’re particularly effective at removing pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene. These ferns thrive in high humidity and indirect light, making them ideal for bathrooms or kitchens.
Hanging a Boston fern in a bathroom not only adds greenery but also helps improve air quality.
10. Philodendron (Philodendron spp.)
Philodendrons are loved for their lush foliage and trailing vines, making them great for hanging baskets or shelves. They’re excellent air purifiers, removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene. Philodendrons are easy to care for, thriving in various light conditions and needing only occasional watering.
Their cascading vines add movement and vitality to any room, making them a favorite among interior decorators.
In summary
Each of these plants brings its unique benefits and beauty to your home, making it a healthier and more pleasant place to live. Give them a try and enjoy the fresh, clean air they provide!