7 indoor plants that can improve your air quality and combat rising AQI levels.

With air pollution on the rise in many urban areas, air-purifying houseplants serve as a simple and effective solution to improve the quality of the air in your home or office. Shaan Lalwani, the owner of Vriksha Nursery in Mumbai, suggests some easy-to-care-for options for those with a green thumb. He has intentionally avoided common choices like aloe vera, snake plants, and money plants, offering some more exotic suggestions instead.

Some great options include:

1) English Ivy (Hedera Helix)

While it’s called English ivy, it actually grows wild in many parts of the Indian subcontinent. “It is important to know that this houseplant reduces the amount of mold in the air,” says the plant expert. Additionally, since it’s a creeper, you can let it climb across any window or wall, creating a beautiful green fencing effect. “If you find maintaining watering schedules an issue, try growing them in a colored glass bottle filled with water,” he suggests.

2) Pygmy Date Palm (Phoenix Roebelenii)

We often associate date palms with arid deserts, but the pygmy date palm thrives indoors just as easily. “I would recommend this hardy variety to anyone who wants to add a tropical vibe to their interiors,” Lalwani says. It’s important to use a much larger container for this plant, perhaps something tall and cylindrical or giant square planters. To keep the plant looking its best, remember to trim any dead or yellowing leaves regularly. This way, you can enjoy its lush, tropical appearance in your home.

3) Chinese Evergreens (Aglaonema Commutatum)

Chinese evergreens are native to many Asian forests and have been brought indoors for their broad, glossy leaves that showcase striking patterns in silver, cream, hot pink, or red, depending on the variety. “They have such a flamboyant aesthetic that they are best displayed on tabletops as centerpieces,” the gardener notes, suggesting that they look best in modest, glossy black planters to avoid a kitschy appearance. These plants not only enhance the decor but also add a touch of elegance to any room.

4) Weeping Figs (Ficus Benjamina)

Weeping or Java figs thrive abundantly in the mangroves of the Sundarbans, making them an excellent choice for anyone prone to overwatering their plants. The horticulturist advises, “Remember that for air purification purposes, it does make more sense to choose an indoor tree over a tiny house plant because of their sheer size.” As this species is a swamp tree, it can also be grown with its roots submerged in water, making it a great addition to an aquarium setup as a mangrove biotope.

5) Flamingo Lily (Anthurium Andraeanum)

Often mistaken for the peace lily, the anthurium features a heart-shaped flower with a central spike, available in shades of red, pink, orange, or white. When properly cared for, these plants naturally purify the air and contribute to a healthy indoor environment. Lalwani shares, “You can grow them in a ceramic pot, but I personally enjoy planting them in a metallic, gold planter for a really dramatic flair.” These air-purifying houseplants add a romantic touch to any space while also enhancing the oxygen levels in the room.

6) Birds Nest Ferns (Asplenium Nidus)

The birds nest fern (Asplenium nidus), which originates from the rainforests of Southeast Asia, Australia, and Hawaii, captivated naturalists with its soft, feathery leaves and round, buoyant appearance. This fascination led to its introduction into homes and decorative gardens. Portuguese colonists brought this genus to India, where the climate is suitable for its growth, similar to that of frangipani, marigolds, and hibiscus. According to Lalwani, “The visually appealing plant truly makes a statement when hung from the ceiling in a hanging planter.”

7) Dragon Tree (Dracaena Marginata)

A common feature in Goa’s Portuguese gardens, the dragon tree looks like an upside-down broom with its spiky leaves edged in red, making it a stylish choice for indoor decoration. As dracaena naturally thrives in dry environments, it’s important to use a pot with good drainage holes at the bottom. This plant needs minimal watering and is quite resilient. Opt for a slim, cylindrical terracotta pot to showcase this intriguing desert plant.