In the past few years, the emphasis on the importance of interior design for our health and happiness has intensified particularly as so many of us were confined to our homes for weeks or even months at a time. When you want to make your space look and feel better, adding plants is one of the fastest, easiest and most cost-effective solutions. That said, if you want your plants to take care of you and your home, you have to return the favor, so it’s important to choose species that suit your lifestyle. When it comes to striking the balance between beneficial and low maintenance, you’ll dig these indoor favorites.
Aloe vera
Perhaps no plant has a better name in the world of healthcare than aloe vera. Loved for its general healing properties and ability to repair irritated skin, the coveted liquids of the aloe vera plant have been extracted and bottled millions of times over – but that’s not all it can do. Aloe vera is also a natural air purifier, filtering carbon dioxide as well as the harmful radiations from electronic devices out of the air. All you have to do in return is keep your aloe vera plant in a bright, sunny spot in your home.
Vanda orchid
Have you ever bought a beautiful bouquet only to be disappointed when the flowers died within a week? The Vanda orchid could be your perfect solution – all the colors of a beautiful bouquet with a trailing root system for longevity. These orchids are seriously low-maintenance, thriving on the occasional spray bottle spritz. They’re also versatile enough to make great desk mates or airborne decorations in any room, so if you’re inclined to hang them from a ceiling, you’ll love them all the more.
Snake plant
One of the downsides of using plants for interior decoration is that they often require maintenance – but not the snake plant. Known for their extremely hardy nature, snake plants are generally low maintenance and require very little water. Plus, although they boast a unique appearance they’re not just for show. In fact, like all of your favorite houseguests, they give back what they take many times over as a remedy for headaches, eye irritation and even breathing problems.
Spider plant
Another plant with a somewhat menacing namesake, this species has been kicking around interior design publications for many years, and its statistical properties are just as impressive as they ever were. The Spider plant has the ability to remove 95% of toxic air pollutants like carbon monoxide, benzene and formaldehyde – a particularly important trait in spaces with low air quality. This species also reproduces rapidly, making it easy to spread and grow more.
Rubber plant
Another natural air purifier, the rubber plant is the perfect choice for homeowners who like their plants with a side of uniqueness – and not just because of its unusual name. This species boasts shiny purple leaves with anti-inflammatory properties, much like aloe vera, and is just as low maintenance and easy to grow. Given exposure to bright natural light and plenty of room to spread its roots, the rubber plant is a model houseguest.
Monstera deliciosa
If it’s a low-maintenance plant companion you’re after, the monstera deliciosa will be your new best friend. Content with a fortnightly dose of water and the occasional splash of natural light, these trendy plants look right at home in modern homes and offices with their heart-shaped leaves.
Basil
For years, basil has had its place on the family dinner table on weekly pasta nights, but this mealtime staple also has some longer-term health benefits. Basil is great for the physical body, treating a variety of ailments including stomach ulcers, sore throats, and even insect bites, and it has also been proven to relieve symptoms of anxiety. All the more reason to embrace the green stuff at your next meal!
Jasmine
The holy grail of style and calm, jasmine plants are known to reduce stress and anxiety and have also been used as a treatment for liver disease, dysentery, and even cancer. For those who have the good fortune of fine physical health, jasmine has also been known to boost productivity through its pleasant odor and fresh oxygen supply. Even if you’re only interested in its aesthetic properties, jasmine is a clear winner for any home or office setup with its subtle yet beautiful flowers.
In case it isn’t already abundantly clear, the right plants in the right place can make a significant difference to your quality of life – from the inside, out. Choose plants that promise health and wellbeing, and the pretty colors, leaves and flowers will be just one of many perks you get to enjoy.
