Houseplants can brighten a room, but the familiar “air-purifying plant” lists overstate what a few pots can do for indoor air. NASA tested plants in sealed chambers; that work does not prove that a typical number of plants meaningfully cleans air in a ventilated home. The 15 plants below are candidates associated with that research, not a ranked list of proven household air cleaners.
Do houseplants actually improve indoor air quality?
NASA’s 1989 technical memorandum examined plant systems for removing benzene, trichloroethylene and formaldehyde. Researchers used controlled tests in small, sealed chambers, where pollutants and conditions could be measured. The findings show that plants can remove chemicals under those test conditions; they do not establish a meaningful benefit from a few decorative plants in an ordinary home.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says there is currently no evidence that a reasonable number of houseplants remove significant quantities of pollutants in homes and offices. Iowa State University Extension makes the same practical distinction: results from sealed-chamber experiments do not translate into meaningful air-quality changes in homes or offices. (EPA indoor-air guidance; Iowa State Extension)
So, treat “air-purifying” as a label associated with the plants’ research history, not a demonstrated home performance claim. Choose a plant for its appearance and care needs rather than expecting it to replace ventilation, filtration or pollution-source control.
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#1 Best Overall
- DECOR-READY LIVE INDOOR PLANTS: This 3-pack of houseplants offers incredible value to gift or instantly upgrade any space. Perfect for shelf, tabletop, or office desk. Varieties will vary — examples include Peace Lily, Snake Plant, Fern, and Pothos
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15 plants associated with NASA’s tests
NASA’s report names the following species among plants screened or included in some tests. The report does not establish a comparative ranking for household air cleaning, and the sources cited here do not provide a current side-by-side score. These are therefore practical houseplant options associated with the claim—not the “best” performers in a home.
- Bamboo palm (Chamaedorea seifritzii)
- Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema modestum)
- English ivy (Hedera helix)
- Gerbera daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)
- Janet Craig dracaena
- Marginata dracaena
- Mass cane or corn cane dracaena
- Mother-in-law’s tongue (listed in the report as Sansevieria laurentii)
- Pot mum (Chrysanthemum morifolium)
- Peace lily (Spathiphyllum “Mauna Loa”)
- Warneckei dracaena
- Weeping fig (Ficus benjamina)
- Heart-leaf philodendron
- Elephant-ear philodendron
- Golden pothos
The report also names green spider plant among plants used in some tests. Because that makes 16 named candidates when combined with the list above, it is included here as an additional option rather than quietly implying that NASA tested exactly 15. (NASA, “A Study of Interior Landscape Plants for Indoor Air Pollution Abatement”)
Rank #2
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- EASY TO MAINTAIN, BEGINNER-FRIENDLY INDOOR PLANTS: This pack of six Assorted Indoor Houseplants are an effortless way to start your collection. These low-maintenance varieties are easy to grow and require minimal attention, making them perfect for new plant parents
- CREATE A CALMING SANCTUARY: Enjoy the benefit of six plants to purify the air and naturally boost your mood, transforming your space into a peaceful haven for wellbeing
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How to choose a plant for your home
Since the cited evidence does not rank these plants for real-world air cleaning, base your choice on whether it suits the room and the people who live there. Compare available light, watering needs, eventual size and growth habit, and the time you want to spend on care. Check current care and household-safety guidance for the particular plant before bringing it home; the NASA study is not a care or safety guide.
Houseplants can still be worthwhile for their appearance and the enjoyment of caring for them. Avoid overwatering: EPA cautions that overly damp soil may encourage microorganisms that can affect people with allergies.
Rank #3
- INSTANT ROOM DÉCOR UPGRADE: The braided trunk of this small live Money Tree plant symbolizes good luck and fortune. A versatile, decorative tabletop plant perfect for any office desk, living room, or tabletop décor
- BREATHE EASIER WITH A NATURAL AIR PURIFIER: Stunning Money Tree Plant helps to filter the air, removing toxins for a healthier indoor environment. Elevate your indoor garden with this air-cleaning houseplant for a fresh home
- CREATE A CALMING SANCTUARY: Introducing natural, living greenery is a simple way to connect with nature, gently lift your mood, and foster overall wellbeing
- PERFECT GIFT FOR ANY OCCASION: A safe, pet-friendly present for birthdays, housewarmings, and all your loved ones. Send a lasting token of affection that brightens any room
- FRESH PLANT, READY FOR YOUR HOME: Your beautiful, healthy live indoor plant, fresh from our farm, arrives secured in specialized packaging right to your home
What works better for indoor air?
EPA describes three basic approaches to indoor air quality: source control, ventilation and air cleaning or filtration. Source control—reducing or removing the pollutant source—is usually the most effective. When outdoor conditions permit, ventilation can dilute or remove indoor pollutants; kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans vented outdoors can remove contaminants at their source.
Air cleaners and filters can help with some particles, depending on factors such as collection efficiency and airflow. EPA notes that air cleaners are generally not designed to remove gaseous pollutants, so match equipment to the pollutant of concern rather than assuming one device handles everything. Houseplants should not be treated as substitutes for these measures. (EPA, “Improving Indoor Air Quality,” updated August 3, 2026)
Quick Recap
Best Value
- LIVE INDOOR PLANT -Bring home the stunning Lemon Lime Maranta Prayer Plant and enjoy a touch of tropical calm. With its vivid green leaves brushed with yellow and dark-green veins, this houseplant brings instant warmth and charm to any room. Watch as its leaves fold upward at night like praying hands — a living rhythm of peace and nature.
- EASY TO CARE, EASY TO GROW - This live indoor plant thrives in bright, indirect light and grows happily with a little love. Just water every 1–2 weeks when the soil feels half dry, and it will reward you with lush, healthy leaves all year long. Perfect for both beginners and plant lovers looking for something beautiful and low-maintenance.
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- AIR PURIFYING & REFRESHING- Breathe easier with a plant that does more than look good. The Maranta naturally purifies indoor air, helping reduce toxins and refresh your space. Studies show that houseplants like this one can improve mood, focus, and overall wellbeing.
- PERFECT GIFT FOR ANY OCCASION- Plants make the best gifts — thoughtful, living, and full of life. Surprise your loved ones with a pet-friendly, easy-care indoor plant that symbolizes peace and positivity. Ideal for birthdays, housewarmings, or “just because” gifts that last far beyond a bouquet.
Rank #4
- Air Purifying Rattlesnake Calathea: Perfect addition to your living room decor, office decor, or garden decor. This live Calathea Rattlesnake plant not only brings color but also acts as an air purifier.
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