Can you imagine life without plants? Not only do these little creatures provide much of human nutrition, either directly or indirectly, they also clean our air, provide shade, and add colorful beauty to our surroundings. In other words, their existence is vital to life on earth.

Although most plants are found outdoors, our homes also benefit from the greenery in more ways than one. And in honor of International Plant Appreciation Day, we’re outlining a list of houseplants that are sure to brighten up your space and help you breathe easier.

Aloe Vera

small aloe plant in a pot

In addition to its skin healing properties, Aloe Vera is also ideal for those with a brown thumb. This desert plant’s low maintenance quality means that you don’t have to water it too often – making it the perfect choice for beginners.

 

Chrysanthemum

flower at an old table and chair

Chrysanthemums are colorful and beautiful plants that illuminate your home and remove ammonia, benzene formaldehyde and xylene. Simply place them in direct sunlight and they’ll be good to go!

 

Snake Plant 

Sansevieria trifasciata in pot on old wall background

Also known as the “mother-in-law’s tongue,” the snake plant thrives in steamy, low-light and humid conditions but does still need to be watered occasionally. These plants are often placed in bathrooms due to their ability to clean out the harmful chemicals found in cleaning products, toilet paper and other cosmetics.

 

Spider Plant 

Spider Plant

Because of its durability, the spider plant is one of the easiest, and most popular, houseplants to grow. No, they don’t have anything to do with spiders, they just have long vines and delicate leaves that are somewhat reminiscent.

 

Peace Lily 

Peace Lily - Spathiphyllum wallisii

Peace lilies – which are not true lilies, but a member of the Araceae family of flowering plants – are renowned for their easy care. The peace lily is hardy, forgiving, and will even let you know when it is thirsty – look for the telltale droop.

 

Bamboo Palm

tropical plant in pot culture on white background,

Also known as the reed palm, the bamboo palm thrives in shady indoor spaces and can vary in height from five to 12 feet tall. It’s also great at breaking down and neutralizing toxic gases.

 

Boston Fern 

Large Boston Compacta Fern Isolated on White

The Boston fern prefers to be watered often and kept in a humid condition with damp soil and bright light. The plant’s leaves will turn yellow if the humidity is not high enough so if your Boston Fern’s leaves turn yellow, increase the humidity around the plant by setting your fern’s pot on a tray of pebbles filled with water.

 

Dracaena

Close up shot of a tropical Draceanea Fragrans flower

There are over 40 different types of the dracaena plant, and it can grow to reach as much as 12 feet tall. While it cleans the air of purifying toxins, it’s also toxic to cats and dogs, and would be a bad option for pet owners.

 

Gerbera Daisy

тоже цветы

Gerbera daisies are commonly grown for their bright and cheerful daily-like flowers. Although beautiful, these plants are susceptible to fungal diseases, so make sure you water them in the morning so leaves can dry out during the day to lessen the risk of rot and fungal diseases.

 

Azalea

Azalea

The azalea is a beautiful flowering shrub that prefers to be kept in cool areas of 60-65 degrees. It removes formaldehyde, and is a great option to keep in your basement if you can find a bright spot.

 

Which plant will you be bringing into your home for Plant Appreciation Day? Let us know in the comments below.