What Do Oceanic Plankton and Indoor Plants Have in Common? | Oxygen-Producing Houseplants
What Do Oceanic Plankton and Indoor Plants Have in Common?
How Oxygen-Producing Houseplants Improve Indoor Air Quality
When we think about oxygen, lush forests often come to mind—but some of the greatest oxygen producers on Earth live beneath the ocean’s surface. In fact, the ocean generates nearly 50% of the planet’s oxygen, thanks largely to microscopic organisms called oceanic plankton.
While plankton may be the unsung heroes of oxygen production, most of us aren’t eager to bring algae into our living rooms. Thankfully, oxygen-producing houseplants offer a beautiful and practical way to improve indoor air quality while adding life and warmth to our homes.
Best Oxygen-Producing Houseplants for Better Indoor Air Quality
Indoor plants don’t just enhance your décor—they help filter pollutants, increase oxygen levels, and create healthier living spaces. Below are some of the best houseplants for oxygen production and air purification, along with where they work best in your home.
Pothos – One of the Easiest Oxygen-Producing Houseplants
Pothos are among the most popular and low-maintenance houseplants available. Known for their trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, pothos help improve air quality by reducing pollutants such as benzene and formaldehyde. They also absorb carbon dioxide efficiently, making them a great choice for almost any room. Some experts even suggest pothos may help promote better sleep when placed in a bedroom.
Snake Plant (Mother-in-Law’s Tongue) – A Powerful Air-Purifying Plant
Snake plants are well known for their ability to filter indoor air. According to NASA studies, they remove toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, nitrogen oxide, and trichloroethylene. Snake plants are excellent oxygen producers during the day and thrive in low-light conditions, making them ideal for offices, living rooms, and entryways.
Aloe Vera – An Oxygen-Producing Plant Perfect for Bedrooms
Aloe vera is both functional and beautiful. In addition to its soothing gel, aloe vera helps clean the air by removing toxins like benzene and aldehydes. Unlike many plants, aloe produces oxygen at night, making it a great option for bedrooms and sleeping spaces.
Gerbera Daisy (Transvaal Daisy) – A Colorful Oxygen Booster
If you’re looking to add a pop of color, Gerbera Daisies are a standout choice. These vibrant flowering plants absorb carbon dioxide at night and remove toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. Placed on a nightstand or dresser, they can help improve air quality while brightening your space.
Peace Lily – A Beautiful, Low-Maintenance Air Purifier
Peace Lilies are beloved for their elegant white blooms and easy care. They help purify indoor air by filtering out pollutants like benzene and trichloroethylene. Peace Lilies also tolerate lower light conditions and are often associated with positive energy, making them a popular choice for bedrooms, offices, and living areas.
Weeping Fig (Ficus Tree) – A Natural Oxygen Producer
Weeping Figs are excellent indoor trees for improving air quality. Research from Pukyong National University in Busan, Korea, found that these plants help increase oxygen levels while filtering harmful compounds such as formaldehyde and benzene. Their graceful structure makes them a beautiful focal point in larger indoor spaces.
Areca Palm – A Natural Humidifier and Air-Purifying Plant
Also known as the Butterfly Palm or Golden Palm, the Areca Palm is one of the best plants for improving indoor air humidity. It helps remove toxins like benzene and xylene while producing oxygen. For the greatest impact, placing two palms together can enhance their air-purifying benefits. They’re also safe for bedrooms and family spaces.
Spider Plant – A Classic Oxygen-Producing Houseplant
Many people remember Spider Plants from childhood homes, and for good reason. They are incredibly easy to grow, produce generous amounts of oxygen, and help filter carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and benzene from the air. Spider Plants are also thought to reduce stress and are a great option for bedrooms, kitchens, and offices.
Create a Healthier Home With Oxygen-Producing Houseplants
Just as oceanic plankton quietly support life on Earth, indoor plants work behind the scenes to improve air quality and create healthier homes. Adding even one of these oxygen-producing houseplants can make a noticeable difference in both the look and feel of your space.
When choosing plants for your home, be sure to consider lighting conditions, care requirements, and safety for pets and children. With the right selection, you can enjoy cleaner air, increased oxygen, and a home filled with natural beauty.
If you’d like help selecting the best oxygen-producing houseplants for your space, stop by our greenhouse—our team is always happy to help you grow healthier indoors.
