15 Air-Purifying Houseplants That Release The Most Oxygen

If you’re looking to improve the air in your home while adding greenery, you came to the right place!

Indoor plants have been valued for their great ability to improve air quality through oxygen production and pollution removal. From low-maintenance succulents, to sophisticated ferns, there are many plants that can each provide their own unique benefits. 

Here, we will be including 15 of the best Indoor plants for oxygen production, including everything you could want to know to care for these oxygen-producing houseplants while allowing them to flourish in your home and encourage better breathing!

First, let’s start with some light science on how houseplants help with air quality!

How Photosynthesis Helps Plants Give Off Oxygen

How Photosynthesis Helps Plants Give Off Oxygen

Photosynthesis is how plants create their own food and also produce oxygen at the same time. Plants use a green pigment in their leaves called chlorophyll to absorb sunlight.

This sunlight is then converted to energy to change carbon dioxide from the air and water (absorbed using its roots) into glucose.

Glucose is a type of sugar it uses as food. Plants also release oxygen. The converted oxygen is released to the environment through little openings in the leaves called stomata, that function as vents.

Photosynthesis is important because it helps improve air quality inside. This is the greatest value of indoor plants, especially as house plants. Plants increase oxygen levels within the home, and oxygenated air feels fresher and more invigorating.

Improving your home atmosphere fosters comfort level beyond being comfortable for your guests and family, and has many health benefits and promotes better health overall!

The Best Houseplants For Improving Indoor Air Quality

Plants that produce oxygen are not only a great decorative element in your home but they significantly improve the air quality. 

As well all know, plants absorb carbon dioxide and create oxygen through photosynthesis, but the perform so much more than just produce oxygen. 

Some types of plants, like spider, peace lily, and snake plants, actually absorb and help neutralize harmful toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide from the air! 

We are often inadvertently introducing those dangerous toxins to our homes through household products like furniture, paint, and cleaning products.

Over time, an accumulation of toxins build up and impact the quality of our air, which impacts our health. 

So if you are bringing air-purifying plants into your home, you are helping to decrease the amount of toxins, you are improving the air quality, and your health! 

The bonus is these air-purifying plants also have the value of producing oxygen. Definitely worth bringing into your home.

Why Oxygen-Producing Plants Are Perfect For Bedrooms

Hey, did you know that there are a few plants that produce oxygen during the night, which means they can actually improve the quality of your sleep? That is why an indoor plant is a good option for your bedroom. 

Most houseplants only produce oxygen during the day, but the Snake Plant, Gerbera Daisy, and a few others, will continue to produce oxygen at night. 

The Snake Plant is a great choice for the bedroom due to its unique ability to photosynthesize both day and night. This plant is a way of improving air quality while you sleep. 

The Gerbera Daisy is also a great choice, and by having these in the bedroom, you know there is going to be a constant supply of oxygen, will contribute to a fresher environment, and therefore help you with a superior sleep quality. Plus, the Gerbera Daisy adds a splash of color with its flowers! 

Adding a few of these plants to your bedroom is an easy way of creating a more relaxing and restorative sleep setting.

How To Care For Oxygen-Producing Plants

Learn what each of your plants specifically require. Each plant is different. Some require low-light, other require full-sun.

Some do well in small spaces, others will grow large and generally demand space. Some prefer lack of water, and others don’t mind copious amounts of it.

Please view the informative tables that follow for specific plant descriptions, requirements, and schedules. 

Safety Considerations For Pets And Children

At Gardenia Organic, we make every effort to provide useful information on different plants and their benefits. When bringing any plants into your home, one must be sure that they are not toxic or harmful to your pets when ingested.

To spare your pets (and your plants!) some heartaches, we recommend placing houseplants in areas that are less accessible to inquisitive critters.

While providing insight, we suggest you look for yourself on the safety of each plant to help you make an informed decision. Always keep an eye out for your pets while they are near houseplants and take additional measures for their safety, and consult a veterinarian if you’re worried about this.

Of course, the same considerations should apply in homes with young children, who tend to be drawn to the color and shape of houseplants. Keep the plants out of reach of curious little hands. If you’re still not sure about the plants in the house, consult the family doctor.

Your family safety is always on our list, so read up and learn about the any one of the plant risks before you rest easy with greens inside your home. After that, you can enjoy your indoor plant while your kids and pets are happy and safe.

Common Problems And Solutions For Oxygen-Producing Plants

Various indoor plants face similar issues including environmental conditions (dry air, low light, too much water, low nutrients). Pests and diseases are another issue for interior plants.

Check below for some troubleshooting tips for common issues.

SignProblemSolution
Droopy-looking leavesToo much water / Too little waterFor most plants, water when top 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) is dry
Leaves with brown tipsToo dry / Too much fertilizerUse a spray bottle to mist plantReduce feeding. Mix half the concentration and use it twice as often
Yellow leavesWatering issue / Not enough lightWater when top 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) is dryRelocate to a position of bright indirect sunlight
Bottom leaves yellowLack of Nitrogen (N)Apply a houseplant fertilizer to provide some nitrogen
Yellow leaves on one sideToo much sunRelocate plant out of direct sunlight 

Pests

ProblemSigns and SymptomsSolution
Spider MitesThe leaves start turning speckled yellow (like spray paint), they dry out and curl. There are fine webs on the underside of the leaves and growth tips. Tiny mites are on the underside of the leaves, in webbing, and are difficult to see.Wipe leaves with damp cloth. For supremacy, apply commercial insecticidal soap product. Spray under the leaves and places where spiders have made webs. Spraying for an infestation entails ensuring that humidity around plants remains high.
AphidsNew shoots and young leaves curl & turn yellow. Leaves may be covered with sticky coating.Aphids will cluster on new growth tipsFor mild cases, wipe plant parts to squish aphids. Repeat every few days.For heavy infestations, prune off plant tips. Apply a commercial insecticidal soap product, spraying directly onto aphids.
MealybugsLeaves curl and turn yellow. Cotton-like white tufts are visible on underside of leaves and at leaf nodes on the stemsUsing a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, carefully dab the clusters of insects. Apply a commercial insecticidal soap product. Spray directly on fluffy clusters.
White flyTiny white moth-like flies flutter around when plant is disturbed.Mottled yellow leaves with distorted growth. Sticky honeydew on foliage.Place yellow sticky-trap cards (1 or 2 cards per plant) around infested plants at the first sign of white flies to catch adults.
Use a commercial insecticidal product that claims to be OK for white flies to spray. You have to spray the flies directly to be effective; repeat applications are usually necessary.
Soft brown scaleYoung leaves are pale and stunted. Scales are found on stems and along the centre vein on the underside of leaves.Black sooty mold may appear on leavesWipe scale off leaves and stems using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Soil GnatsDon’t pose a problem for plant health but can be a nuisance flying around plantsAllow top two inches (5 cm) of soil to dry out between waterings. Cover the soil surface with a half-inch (2 cm) layer of coarse sand or kitty litter 

15 Air-Purifying Houseplants That Give Off The Most Oxygen

Here’s our top 15 plants that give off the most oxygen:

1. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)

Do You Water Aloe Vera Plants from Top or Bottom
OriginAfrica, Madagascar, and Arabian Peninsula 
Plant size12-24 inches (30-60 centimeters) in height and width
FloweringRarely flowers indoors
LightBright indirect sun, can tolerate some direct sun
WateringWater when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil has dried out. Allow plant to dry out between waterings
FertilizerFeed every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
Potting soilWell-draining potting mix or a mix designed for cacti and succulents
PruningRemove any dead or damaged leaves at the base to encourage new growth
RepottingRepot every 2-3 years
ToxicityGenerally non-toxic to pets and humans, but can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large amounts

Aloe vera is a great way to clean the air indoors with little maintenance. This tough plant will boost levels of oxygen (which it produces during daylight) and absorbs carbon dioxide which freshens the air in your house. 

Aloe vera has low light requirements, and only requires watering every two weeks maximum. It’s good at filtering out toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air.

Aloe vera is easy to look after, has similar air-purifying features as other plants, and is a good low-care plant for a space wanting to clean their air.

Aloe vera has a lot of other medicinal benefits aside from producing oxygen. The gel in its leaves is great for burns, cuts, and sunburns. It’s been used for a long time for moisturizing and healing in beauty products.

2. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

Boston Fern
OriginCentral and South America  
Plant size12-36 inches (30-90 cm) in height and width 
FloweringN/A
LightBright, indirect light; can tolerate low light but not direct sunlight
WateringKeep soil evenly moist. Water when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil has dried out
FertilizerFeed every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer.
Potting soilRich, well-draining potting mix
PruningTrim off brown or dead fronds
RepottingRepot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Repot in spring
ToxicityNon-toxic to pets and humans

Boston Ferns are super effective for indoor air quality – especially in spaces with higher humidity, like bathrooms.

First and foremost, this plant is fabulous at producing oxygen. Further, the Boston Fern purifies the air, removing pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene.

Given its natural proclivity for high humidity, this plant is perfect for the average levels of moisture in a bathroom.

3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Spider Plant
OriginSouth Africa
Plant size12-24 inches (30-60 cm) in height, with a similar spread
FloweringRarely flowers indoors
LightPrefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light
WateringWater when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering
FertilizerFeed monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
Potting soilWell-draining potting mix, such as a mix for houseplants 
PruningTrim off brown tips and dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and promote new growth
RepottingRepot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; typically done in spring
ToxicityNon-toxic to pets and humans

Spider plants are an awesome way to improve indoor air quality without much effort. They are famous for their ability to absorb carbon monoxide and other pollutants from your air, and always release oxygen at the same time. 

They are great if you’re wanting fast growth since they grow fast. 

Also, you’ll want spider plants since they are perfect for homes with pets, meaning you’ll have a great environment for your pets and a fresher, healthier environment for you!

4. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)

Philodendron hederaceum
OriginCentral and South America
Plant size12-24 inches (30-60 centimeters) in height; can trail or climb up to 3-4 feet (90-120 centimeters)
FloweringN/A
LightBright indirect sun, can tolerate low light
WateringWater when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil has dried out. Avoid overwatering
FertilizerFeed every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer
Potting soilWell-drained potting mix
PruningTrim any leggy growth and remove any yellow or damaged leaves 
RepottingRepot every 1-2 years
ToxicityToxic to people and pets if ingested

Not only are the heart-shaped leaves pretty, but they also help purify the air! It’s a wonderful plant to trap carbon dioxide and release oxygen!
 
This plant is great at eliminating indoor pollutants and increasing oxygen levels, so it will make any room better!
 
The Heartleaf Philodendron is one of the easiest plants to take care of – it can tolerate a little neglect! It is also happy in many different light conditions and will forgive you for forgeting to water it. This plant is perfect for newbies or people who don’t usually have time for plants.

5. Gerbera Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)

Gerbera Daisy
OriginSouth Africa, Madagascar, Tropical Asia
Plant size6-18 inches (15-45 centimeters) in height; 12-18 inches (30-45 centimeters) in width
FloweringSpring through fall, potentially year-round indoors
LightBright indirect sun
WateringKeep soil evenly moist when flowering but not soggy. Water when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil has dried out 
FertilizerFeed every 4-6 weeks from spring to fall
Potting soilWell-drained potting mix or mix for flowering plants
PruningRemove spent flowers and dead foliage to encourage new blooms
RepottingRepot every 1-2 years
ToxicityNon-toxic to pets and humans

Gerbera daisies have colorful blooms in red, pink, yellow, and white.  

But what makes Gerbera daisies unique from any other flowering plant is their ability to release oxygen at night! This is important, as the release of oxygen while you sleep, will improve sleep quality, making Gerbera daisies a perfect plant for the bedroom!

Gerbera daisies are lively and cheerful in appearance. They will really brighten your bedroom each day, and at the same time, they will help improve the air quality while you are resting (what’s not to love!)  

6. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema silver bay)
OriginSoutheast Asia 
Plant sizeTypically 12 to 36 inches (30 to 90 cm) tall; can spread 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) wide
FloweringN/A
LightTolerates low light
WateringWater when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil has dried out
FertilizerFeed every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer
Potting soilWell-drained potting mix
PruningRemove yellow leaves
RepottingRepot every 1-2 years
ToxicityToxic to pets and humans if ingested

It’s highly recommended for offices or environments where natural light is limited. It is known to produce oxygen in the less-than-ideal lighting it will be receiving. The Chinese evergreen plant is highly desirable in any indoor environment. 

In addition to producing oxygen for you, the Chinese evergreen has been shown to take toxins out of the air, and is highly effective against formaldehyde, significantly contributing to a healthier indoor environment. 

It comes with variegated leaves and just thinks it looks and is resilient so there is value and beauty in just simply growing in indoor environments – good for home and office.

7. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
OriginFrench Polynesia
Plant size20 to 40 inches (50 to 100 cm) long; can trail much longer
FloweringN/A
LightIndirect sun; can tolerate low light
WateringWater when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil has dried out
FertilizerFeed every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer
Potting soilWell-drained potting mix
PruningTrim long stems to encourage bushier growth; remove yellowing leaves
RepottingRepot every 1-2 years 
ToxicityToxic to pets and humans if ingested

Golden pothos is a great choice for homes and offices, due to all its positives and versatility.

Golden pothos is famous for producing oxygen, which creates a fresher indoor space, and removes harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene.

Golden pothos can grow in any condition, especially low light, with little needed care, so it’s perfect for the office.

Its beautiful trailing vines and the benefits to your well-being, are always a good start on the right foot!

8. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Why Are My Peace Lily Flowers Turning Black or Brown
OriginSoutheast Asia and Central America
Plant sizeTypically 12 to 36 inches (30 to 90 cm) tall; can spread 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) wide
FloweringWhite spathes. Can flower year-round under the right conditions
LightCan tolerate low light. Avoid direct sunlight
WateringKeep soil evenly moist. Water when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil has dried out
FertilizerFeed every 6-8 weeks during the spring and summer
Potting soilWell-drained potting mix
PruningRemove yellow leaves and spent flowers
RepottingRepot every 1-2 years
ToxicityToxic to pets and humans if ingested

Peace lilies are more than just pleasing to the eyes, with their elegant white flowers and lush green leaves; they are great plants for indoor use. 

They have a high oxygen output, which improves air quality and are known to purify the air as well by filtering toxins out. 

They’re also pretty great for adding a fair amount of humidity to the air, which can make breathing easier, especially inside. This is just a bonus because the air purification and humidity factors make the Japanese peace lily a marvelous addition to a healthy, cozy ambiance.

9. Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)

Weeping Fig
OriginSoutheast Asia and Australia
Plant size24 to 60 inches (60 to 150 cm) tall; can spread 24 to 48 inches (60 to 120 cm) wide
FloweringN/A
LightBright indirect sun
WateringKeep soil evenly moist. Water when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil has dried out
FertilizerFeed every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer
Potting soilWell-drained potting mix
PruningPrune to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged leaves
RepottingRepot every 1-2 years or if root-bound
ToxicityToxic to pets and humans if ingested. Sap can be a skin irritant 

This plant with its classy droopy branches and shiny green leaves adds drama to your home decor while improving your indoor air quality. 

It’s an expert oxygen producer. It can also absorb harmful gasses like benzene. 

The weeping fig is also easy to care for. It’s not picky about light. It’s okay if you forget to water it for a long time. It’s a good plant for beginners.

10. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)

Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
OriginMadagascar
Plant size36 to 72 inches (90 to 180 cm) tall; can spread 24 to 36 inches (60 to 90 cm) wide
FloweringDoesn’t usually flower indoors
LightBright indirect sun
WateringWater when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil has dried out
FertilizerFeed every 6-8 weeks during the growing season
Potting soilWell-drained potting mix
PruningRemove any yellow or dead fronds
RepottingRepot every 2-3 years
ToxicityNon-toxic to pets and humans

This is a great houseplant for big homes, where its impressive height can have an impact.

The palm is known for its great capacity for O2 production, and all these features not only provide cleaner air, they will also add humidity to the air. Furthermore, it is effective in removing air pollutants.

So, with its understated good looks and health benefits, the areca palm is a tasteful contribution to any home – beautiful and healthy.

11. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

Snake Plant
OriginWest Africa
Plant size12 to 48 inches (30 to 120 cm) tall; can spread 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) wide
FloweringN/A
LightBright indirect sun, can tolerate low light
WateringAllow to dry out completely between watering. Water less in winter 
FertilizerFeed every 6 weeks in spring and summer. Can tolerate little fertilizer
Potting soilWell-draining potting mix; cactus or succulent mix works well
PruningRemove dead leaves
RepottingRepot every 2-3 years
ToxicityToxic to pets and humans if ingested

Snake plant is probably the most famous indoor plant. With its stunning, pointed, sword-like leaves, it is commonly termed mother-in-law’s tongue! 

Among its many benefits, this plant shines at night by providing oxygen to sleep better. This makes it a nice addition in the bedroom, where clean air is a critical component for sleep. 

It is also very easy to care for since it grows under different light conditions, such as low light, bright indirect light, and it is reasonably fit for almost any space. They are indeed hardy, needing to be watered occasionally—making them suitable for people who haven’t got a green thumb. 

It also boosts the purifying of air by filtering toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene to improve air quality. 

With its combination of beauty, air cleaning abilities, and easy care, the snake plant is a jack-of-all-trades kind of winner.

12. Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)

Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
OriginCentral and South America
Plant size24 to 60 inches (60 to 150 cm) tall; can spread 24 to 36 inches (60 to 90 cm) wide
FloweringN/A
LightBright indirect sun, can tolerate low light
WateringWater when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil has dried out
FertilizerFeed every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer
Potting soilWell-draining potting mix
PruningTrim any dead leaves
RepottingRepot every 2-3 years
ToxicityNon-toxic to pets and humans

Money Tree houseplants have become pretty common today, right?

It has many positive characteristics in Feng Shui and is seen as a way of inviting good luck and attracting prosperity.

In addition to its beauty and symbolism, the Money Tree absorbs air pollutants, making it a good oxygen producer to a healthier indoor environment. The wide leaves help filter the air of contaminants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene.

This hardy plant will bring a fun tropical vibe to any room! 

13. Calathea Flamestar (Calathea veitchiana ‘Flamestar’) 

Calathea Flamestar
OriginBrazil
Plant size12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) tall; can spread 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) wide
FloweringN/A
LightBright indirect sun
WateringKeep soil evenly moist. Water when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil has dried out
FertilizerApply general-purpose fertilizer, diluted to half the label recommendations, when the plant is in flower. Stop fertilizing when not in flower in summer
Potting soilWell-drained potting mix
PruningRemove any dead leaves
RepottingRepot every 2-3 years
ToxicityNon-toxic to pets and humans

Calathea Flamestar is an amazing houseplant for several reasons – it not only looks gorgeous with its stunning foliage, but it has many benefits.

Calathea Flamestar’s lush, patterned leaves bring a slice of tropical flair to any home or work space, but it goes beyond good looks. Calathea Flamestar produces oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis.

Calathea Flamestar loves humid weather, which helps to burst moisture into the air, making it a great option for dry homes.

Practically, Calathea Flamestar contributes to the freshness of your home by eliminating toxins from the air and netting you something fun and beautiful to watch grow.

14. Orchids (Orchidaceae)

Orchids (Orchidaceae)
OriginDiverse origins; found in tropical and subtropical regions 
Plant sizeVaries. Typically 12 to 36 inches (30 to 90 cm) tall; some species can be much larger or smaller
FloweringColorful and diverse flowers; flowering can last several weeks to months
LightBright indirect sun
WateringWater when nearly dry, every 1-2 weeks. Avoid having roots sit in water
FertilizerUse orchid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season
Potting soilWell-draining orchid mix (often bark-based)
PruningRemove spent flowers and dead leaves
RepottingRepot every 2-3 years
ToxicityDepends on variety, check the details of your specific species 

Orchids are probably the prettiest flower. But they aren’t just pretty flowers. They have many benefits beyond their stunning floral displays that make them the right flower for the home. 

Orchids are great at providing the perfect touch of sophistication to a room they are in. Besides their beauty, Orchids produces oxygen well and cleans the air around them, providing fresh air opportunities. 

Orchids like to be in bright to well-lit locations, so they do good in well-lit areas so they can have their balance of color – or flamboyance – without being washed out or losing their color.

When you get Orchids for home decor, you can have the charm and beauty of life in your home but also promote a healthier atmosphere. 

15. Tulsi, Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum)

Tulsi, Holy Basil
OriginIndian subcontinent
Plant size12 to 30 inches (30 to 75 cm) tall; can spread 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) wide
FloweringSmall purple or white flowers from summer to fall
LightPrefers full sun – at least 6 hours of direct sunlight
WateringKeep soil evenly moist. Water when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil has dried out
FertilizerFeed every 4-6 weeks from late spring to fall
Potting soilWell-drained potting mix
PruningRegular pruning promotes bushier growth
RepottingRepot every 2-3 years
ToxicityNon-toxic to pets and humans

Tulsi, also called Holy Basil, is much more than a popular kitchen herb, it is well known for its value as a medicinal herb.  

As documented in Ayurveda, Tulsi is reputed to purify both air and mind and is a key ingredient in holistic medical practices. The aroma its leaves produce has calming effects, while the compounds found in the leaves have anti-inflammatory properties and may provide immune-boosting benefits.  

Additionally, Tulsi is a great producer of oxygen, which supports healthy indoor air. By inviting this multi-dimensional plant into your space, you get to enjoy flavor profiles in food, while taking advantage of the health benefits that heal body, mind and spirit.

Tips for Buying Houseplants

When shopping in person, it’s important to be sure the plant you’re buying is healthy and in good condition.

Healthy Foliage

Find yourself some green leaves, with no pale yellow patches or edges (unless it says it’s suppose to be multi-coloured!) No dead dry brown tips or spots on the leaves. Be sure the leaves aren’t soft, droopy-looking. Look for healthy new growth coming in at the tips or base of the plant, too.

Roots Coming Out The Drain Holes 

When a plant’s roots exceed the amount of “room” in a plant pot, the plant is rootbound (pot bound).

Some plants are perfectly happy being slightly pot-bound, but most are not. If you start to see roots protruding out of the drain holes at the bottom of the pot, it is time for the plant to be re-potted into a larger container.

It doesn’t mean the plant is unhealthy, it just means that you will be forced to re-pot it at the time you get it home. Some garden centers offer a re-potting service.

Leave a Comment