Succulents have become a popular choice for indoor plants due to their low maintenance requirements and aesthetic appeal. But, there’s a question that has been making rounds in the plant community: Do succulents clean the air? This article will delve into the science behind this question and provide a comprehensive understanding of the air-purifying abilities of succulents.
Air Purification: A General Overview
Before we delve into the specifics of succulents, it’s essential to understand how plants purify the air. The process is tied to photosynthesis, where plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. However, some plants go a step further. They can absorb toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air, a process known as phytoremediation.
Do Succulents Clean the Air?
The short answer is yes, but not all succulents are created equal in this regard. While all plants, including succulents, participate in photosynthesis, not all of them have significant air-purifying abilities.
A study by NASA in 1989, often referred to as the Clean Air Study, identified several houseplants that effectively clean the air by removing toxins. Among these were a few succulent varieties, such as the Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) and the Aloe Vera plant.
Snake Plants, also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, are particularly effective at filtering out formaldehyde, which is commonly found in cleaning products, toilet paper, tissues, and personal care products. They also release oxygen at night, making them an excellent choice for bedrooms.
Aloe Vera, on the other hand, is effective at removing benzene and formaldehyde, which are commonly found in paints and chemical-based cleaners. Plus, the gel inside the plant has healing properties, making it a double-duty houseplant.
Limitations and Considerations
While succulents do have air-purifying abilities, they are not as efficient as some other houseplants like the Peace Lily or the Boston Fern, which were also part of NASA’s study. The air-purifying effect of succulents is also relatively localized, so don’t expect a small succulent to cleanse your entire home’s air.
Moreover, the air-cleaning process is slow and gradual, so while having succulents can contribute to cleaner air, they should not be relied upon as the primary means of air purification. It’s also crucial to maintain a healthy environment for your succulents, including proper sunlight, watering, and temperature, to keep them thriving and effectively purifying the air.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while succulents do have air-purifying abilities, their impact is relatively minor compared to other houseplants. However, their low maintenance and aesthetic appeal make them a great addition to any indoor space. Remember, a houseplant’s primary role is not to act as an air purifier but to bring a touch of nature into our homes, providing a sense of calm and well-being.
