9 Best Indoor Plants For Oxygen

Houseplants are not just decorative additions to our living spaces but also powerful tools for improving indoor air quality and increasing oxygen levels. According to NASA's Clean Air Study, the best air-purifying and highest oxygen-producing indoor plants include the snake plant, spider plant, Philodendron, Pothos, peace lily, areca palm, and many others you’ll learn about in this article.

How Do Indoor Plants Produce Oxygen?

Plants produce oxygen through a process known as photosynthesis, which takes place in their green leaves. During photosynthesis, the chlorophyll found in plants uses sunlight to turn carbon dioxide and water into glucose, a type of sugar and oxygen. This process occurs in specialized organelles within plant cells called chloroplasts, which contain a green pigment called chlorophyll that absorbs light energy.

Glucose

This glucose is used as fuel for the plant's growth and metabolism. As a byproduct of photosynthesis, plants release oxygen into the atmosphere, which is essential for the survival of animals and humans that breathe oxygen to live.

The amount of oxygen a plant produces depends on several factors, including light intensity and duration, carbon dioxide and water availability, and the plant species. Some plant species generate oxygen more efficiently than others. Hence our referring to some flora as "oxygenating" plants.

Oxygen-Producing Plants Vs. Air-Purifying Plants

Oxygen-producing plants convert carbon dioxide into oxygen, which improves air quality and supports human health and well-being.

Air-purifying plants remove harmful pollutants and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene, formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene, as well as carbon monoxide and trichloroethylene from the air.

While there may be some overlap between oxygen-producing plants and air-purifying plants, the specific mechanisms of each process are distinct and depend on the plant species and the particular pollutants or harmful chemicals present in the air.

Which Indoor Plants Produce The Most Oxygen?

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

Description

The indoor snake plant, also known as Sansevieria or mother-in-law's tongue, features long, upright, sword-shaped leaves that are typically green with yellow margins. There are many different varieties with unique colors and patterns.

Size

Snake plants grow up to 3-4 feet tall.

Maintenance

Snake plants are generally low-maintenance and are well-suited to beginners or those who may need more time to dedicate to plant care. Although they prefer bright indirect light, they will tolerate low light conditions and an inconsistent watering schedule.

Style Tip

Snake plants are versatile and complement a range of decor styles, try pairing a tall snake plant with a statement planter for a dramatic look.

2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Description

Spider plants feature long, slender leaves, which are usually variegated with green and white stripes and arching stems that produce small plantlets or spiderettes.

Size

Spider plants grow up to 12-18 inches tall and wide.

Maintenance

Spider plants are low maintenance and adaptable to various lighting conditions, though they prefer bright indirect light and consistently moist soil.

Style Tip

Spider plants are perfect for adding a touch of green to a hanging basket or bookshelf, and their cascading plantlets create a whimsical, playful vibe.

3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Description

The indoor peace lily plant features glossy, dark green leaves and distinctive white flowers that resemble a calla lily.

Size

Peace lilies grow up to 2-3 feet tall and wide.

Maintenance

Peace lilies are relatively simple to maintain and thrive in low to medium light levels, although they prefer consistently moist soil and may wilt if they become too dry.

Style Tip

Peace lilies are a classic choice for adding a touch of elegance to any interior, and their white flowers complement a range of decor styles, from traditional to modern.

4. Areca Palm

Description

The indoor areca palm plant features green feathery fronds with yellow or gold accents.

Size

Areca palms grow up to 6-7 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide.

Maintenance

Areca palms are relatively low maintenance and prefer bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil. However, they are sensitive to overwatering and may develop yellow leaves if they are underwatered.

Style Tip

Areca palms are perfect for adding a touch of tropical flair to any interior, and their graceful, arching fronds create a sense of movement and flow in a space.

5. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Description

The indoor Pothos plant, also called devil’s ivy and money plant, features heart-shaped leaves that are usually variegated with shades of green, yellow, white, or gold.

Size

Pothos grow up to 6-10 feet long, but it can be trimmed to keep it bushy.

Maintenance

Pothos are low maintenance and adaptable to various lighting conditions, although they prefer bright indirect light and well-draining soil.

Style Tip

Pothos are perfect for adding a trailing, cascading element to a shelf or hanging planter, and their variegated leaves create a striking contrast against a plain wall or backdrop.

6. Ficus (weeping fig)

Description

The indoor Ficus, also known as the weeping fig, features glossy, oval-shaped leaves that are usually dark green, although there are also variegated varieties.

Size

Ficus plants grow up to 6-10 feet tall, although they can be pruned to maintain a smaller size.

Maintenance

Ficus plants are finicky and require consistent watering and specific lighting conditions, but they are long-lived and well worth the effort for dedicated plant parents.

Style Tip

Ficus plants are perfect for creating a statement focal point in a large, open space, and their sculptural form adds interest to a minimalist or modern interior.

7. Aloe Vera

Description

The indoor aloe vera plant features fleshy, pointed leaves that are usually green with white spots or stripes.

Size

Aloe Vera plants grow up to 2-3 feet tall and wide.

Maintenance

Aloe Vera plants are low maintenance and prefer bright indirect light and well-draining soil. Since they are succulents and store water, they are sensitive to overwatering and may develop brown or mushy leaves with too much water.

Style Tip

Aloe vera plants are perfect for adding a touch of texture to a minimalist or bohemian interior, and their spiky leaves create a sculptural element against a plain wall or backdrop.

8. Boston Fern

Description

The indoor Boston fern plant features feathery, bright green fronds that arch gracefully.

Size

Boston Ferns grow up to 2-3 feet tall and wide.

Maintenance

Boston ferns are finicky and require consistent moisture and specific lighting conditions to thrive, but they are long-lasting and rewarding.

Style Tip

Boston ferns are perfect for adding lushness and natural texture to a traditional or bohemian interior, and their arching fronds can create a sense of movement and flow in a space.

9. Gerbera Daisy

Description

The indoor Gerbera daisy plant features bold, colorful blooms with a central disk surrounded by bright petals.

Size

Gerbera Daisy plants can grow up to 12-18 inches tall and wide.

Maintenance

Gerbera daisy plants can be demanding and require specific lighting and watering conditions to thrive, but they can produce long-lasting blooms that are well worth the effort.

Style Tip

Gerbera daisies are perfect for adding a pop of color and cheer to a contemporary or cottage-style interior. Their bold blooms can create a cheerful and welcoming centerpiece or accent.

If you want more flowering plants in your home, chrysanthemums are another beautiful oxygen powerhouse to consider.