The NASA Study, Honestly

A famous NASA study found certain houseplants can remove trace volatile compounds from sealed chambers. In a real, ventilated home the effect is modest -- but every little bit helps, and the plants look great.

The Best Performers

  • Snake Plant -- releases oxygen at night.
  • Spider Plant -- a NASA top performer.
  • Peace Lily -- effective and pretty.
  • Pothos -- easy and efficient.
  • Chinese Evergreen -- tolerant and cleansing.
  • Boston Fern -- adds humidity too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will a few plants purify my whole flat?

A:

Not magically, but they help and they boost wellbeing.

Q: More plants = more effect?

A:

Broadly yes; a few per room is a good target.

Grow the effective ones in the light you have -- use the light calculator.