NASA’s research into which plants clean indoor air has been well reported, including by me. Their work was targeted at cleaning the air of space shuttles, in particular removing the suspected carcinogen and sensitizer formaldehyde.

Horticulture experts at University of Georgia have now tested a number of ornamental indoor plants for their ability to remove harmful volatile organic chemicals ( VOCs) including formaldehyde, from indoor air. They have found that some indoor plants have the ability to effectively remove VOCs from the air and not only improve physical health, but also someone’s well-being.

Of the 28 species of common indoor ornamental plants tested for their ability to remove five volatile indoor pollutants, they found five that did a stellar job. These are purple waffle plant (Hemigraphis alternata), English ivy (Hedera helix), waxy leaved plant (Hoya carnosa) and Asparagus fern (Asparagus densiflorus).

The purple heart plant (Tradescantia pallida) was rated as the best for its ability to remove four of the VOCs.

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–By Annie B. Bond