ultimate Guide to 50 houseplants that boost oxygen
We grow many of these 50 oxygen-producing plants in our Brooklyn home — here’s which ones actually thrive indoors and how to choose the right one for your space
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Air purification, getting more oxygen inside the closed doors of your home, tends to be one of the primary reasons we buy and keep houseplants. And why wouldn’t that be? Who wouldn’t want to step into their home where the air feels fresher and the energy more vibrant?
Studies by NASA have shown that certain houseplants can significantly reduce indoor pollutants such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. But in truth, they don’t clean the air in the way most people think – they are much slower – and some plants are more efficient in cleaning air than others. Read our handy oxygen production chart that tabulates amount of oxygen 50 popular houseplants produce!
Over the years, we have grown an array of these indoor plants that produce more oxygen in our Brooklyn community household. Each of our rooms host its own collection, and this experience has taught us the nuances of how to make them thrive: from the thirsty peace lily to the resilient snake plant, that we would love to share.. In this article we will explore:
Let’s dive in.
Summary
Which indoor plants are best for boosting oxygen at home?
Philodendron, Cast Iron Plant, Areca Palm, Snake Plant, Bamboo palm, Rubber plant are some of the top oxygen-producing indoor plants. These plants thrive indoors and improve air quality with minimal care, making them ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices.
Some tips to improve oxygen production in houseplants:
- Take into account effectiveness, room size, pet and child safety, light and water requirements, and aesthetics when choosing air-purifying houseplants. (Refer to indoor plants safe for pets, and indoor plants that thrive in low light for more information)
- Place plants in entrance areas, high traffic zones, bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and near windows to enhance air purification.
- Use air purifiers for more effective air cleaning along with houseplants.
Snapshot of our Top 5 picks
1. Philodendron
2. Cast iron plant
3. Rubber plant
4. Bamboo palm
5. Snake Plant
How do Indoor plants produce oxygen?
Plants purify air primarily through a process called photosynthesis. They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Inside the leaves CO2 is combined with water using energy from sunlight captured by chlorophyll which is the pigment that gives plants their green color.
This process converts the CO2 and water into glucose which is a type of sugar that plants use for food and growth and oxygen which is released back into the air.But there’s more—they can also remove toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air. Also, research from the Journal of American Society for Horticultural Science and the University of Technology, Sydney confirm that indoor plants reduce ozone levels and other VOCs in indoor environments.
Infographic of oxygen producing Houseplants
Here are our 50 Top Indoor plants that produce more oxygen
1. Spider plant
Pet safe
Medium to Bright light
Grows upto 2 feet
North/west/east facing windows
pet safe
Medium light
grows to 2 feet
North/west/east facing windows
The Spider Plant (aka Chlorophytum comosum): This indoor plant is a member of the Asparagaceae family, known for its ability to produce more oxygen. It is super slender, has arching leaves, and boasts a bursting green with a distinctive creamy white stripe running down the center. This plant doesn’t just sit pretty—its cascading foliage can look stunning in hanging baskets or even in high shelves where you don’t get much sunlight.
We have placed our Spider Plant in the east-facing reading room, where it benefits from a lot of indirect light. This spot makes its bushy, grass-like leaves a cozy focal point in the room. It’s extremely easy to care for, btw. They love to be neglected, and they are also non-toxic to pets and humans.
Occasionally, the Spider Plant produces small white flowers and spawns mini “spiderettes” that can be propagated easily. At its full length it comes upto about 2 feet which is a great balance between small and large plants. Personally, we’ve styled it in a maroon ceramic pot that complements both the plant and the decor of our rustic reading room.
Care tip:
- Water weekly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
- Place in bright, indirect light and avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch.
- Browning leaf tips can indicate fluoride sensitivity – try using distilled or rainwater.
Propagation tip:
- Place a spiderette in a glass jar filled with room temperature distilled water. Only roots are submerged, not the leaves.
- Place the jar in bright, indirect light and change the water every week or so to prevent stagnation.
- Roots should start to appear within a week or two. Once they are 2-3 inches long, transfer to soil.
Symbolism and zodiac signs:
- The Spider Plant symbolizes abundance, and purity, and good luck because of its prolific nature in producing offshoots. Perfectly suited for Virgo’s who are known for their attention to health and cleanliness, and are most apt to care for this plant.
Pros and cons
$43
“This plant is very forgiving and easy to propagate. Great for plant beginners”
2. Snake plant
Mildly toxic
Low light
Grows 2-4 feet
Any window direction
Mildly toxic
low light
grows to 2 -4 feet
any window direction
The The snake plant (aka Sansevieria trifasciata): This indoor plant, from the Asparagaceae family, is a stunning and sturdy addition to any home. It has long, upright leaves with yellow edges and green banding, that help produce more oxygen into the spaces they are placed. Ours in one of the east-facing bedrooms on the top floor where it enjoys bright, indirect light.
These plants are also a breeze to care for – but they are mildly toxic to pets in that they can cause irritation and digestive issues, so it’s best to keep them out of reach of cats and dogs. We don’t allow our furry animals to the top floor at all. These plants thrive on infrequent watering and low attention. We have styled this plant in a sleek, white ceramic pot that has lines and is matte finish and is positioned near the window.
When fully grown, it can reach up to four feet tall, and though it rarely flowers, when it does, it produces small but fragrant greenish-white blooms that are a an absolute treasure to watch.
Read also: Whale fin snake plant, and cylindrical snake plant
Care tip:
- Water every 2-3 weeks, and allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
- It thrives in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate low light conditions.
- Watch for drooping or yellowing leaves, which can indicate overwatering.
Propagation tip:
- Cut a leaf into sections about 3-4 inches long, making sure each piece has at least one horizontal stripe – the node.
- Place the cut ends into a container filled with about an inch of water.
- No leaves should be submerged. Change the water weekly and roots will appear in about 3-4 weeks. When they are a few inches long plant in well-draining potting soil.
Symbolism and zodiac signs:
- Symbolizes good luck, purity, and positivity. It’s often associated with the zodiac sign Taurus, reflecting their steadfast and resilient nature.
Pros and cons
$58
“This plant is almost indestructible! Perfect for beginners and looks great”
3. Peace Lily
Toxic
Low/medium light
Grows upto 3 feet
west/north Window
Toxic
Low/medium
grows to 3 feet
North/west facing windows
The Peace Lily (aka Spathiphyllum): this indoor plant, from the Araceae family, has glossy, deep green leaves and beautiful white spathes that bloom around the spadix. This one thrives in medium to low light, so it fits perfectly in our the west-facing room on the top floor. Peace Lilies are also easy to care for – moderate watering when the soil feels dry. This is one of the highest oxygen producing indoor plants!
They are toxic to pets, however, your pets could literally die when ingesting any part of this plant, so keep them out of reach of cats and dogs.
Their highlight is the beautiful white flowers they produce, with a gentle, refreshing fragrance that lasts for weeks. These blooms typically appear in spring and can reappear throughout the year with proper care. We have styled ours in a black ceramic pot to complement its lush foliage and clean lines. They will grow up to 3 feet tall
REad also: Variegate peace lily care
Care tip:
- Water about once a week. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- It enjoys higher humidity, and will droop to signal it’s thirsty but perks up quickly after watering.
- Watch for yellow leaves – they indicate overwatering.
Propagation tip:
- They are best propagated through division rather than in water.
- Remove the plant from its pot, and separate the root clumps into sections with at least 3 leaves each.
- Plant these sections in well-draining potting soil in bright, indirect light.
- Maintain moist soil. Wait 4-6 weeks for the roots to flourish!
Symbolism and zodiac signs:
- Symbolizes purity, tranquility, and rebirth. Ideal for Libras, who are known for their love of harmony and balance
Pros and cons
$43
“Love the white blooms. It’s been doing great in my living room” – Amazon customer
4. Bamboo palm
Safe
medium light
Grows 4-12 feet
East/West Window
Safe
medium
grows 4-1 2 feet
East/west facing windows
The Bamboo Palm (aka Chamaedorea seifrizii): This indoor plant, from the Arecaceae family, has graceful, arching fronds and feathery green leaves that produce more oxygen than most plants. Our living room at once feels tropical with this large plant in it! It is currently placed ours in the west-facing living room in second floor where pets are welcome to roam around.
Bamboo Palms are also easy to care for. They don’t really have a notable fragrance, but they do occasionally produce small, yellow flowers. We have styled the Bamboo Palm in a tall, cream pot that complements its height. This one is a big plant – it can reach up to 12 feet tall – making it a stunning focal point.
Care tip:
- Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, usually every 1-2 weeks.
- Soil should drain well to prevent root rot. Yellowing leaves indicate overwatering.
Propagation tip:
- Remove a clump with 2-3 stems and roots.
- Plant it in well-draining soil mixed with (ideally) perlite.
- Keep the soil moist, and place it in bright, indirect light. Roots come in 4-6 weeks!
Symbolism and zodiac signs:
- Symbolizes good luck, prosperity, and resilience. Ideal for Capricorns who appreciate its hardworking and enduring nature
Pros and cons
$38
“This plant is a bit finicky but looks stunning when healthy. It’s definitely a statement piece”
5. Boston fern
Safe
Low light
North Window
Safe
Low
grows upto 5 feet
North facing windows
The Boston Fern (aka Nephrolepis exaltata): This indoor plant, part of the Nephrolepidaceae family, has lush, arching fronds with feather-like leaflets. We have placed ours in one of our North-facing room. This one thrive in low to medium light and prefer high humidity – so a bit more demanding, but worth it for their aesthetic appeal. These could also work great in bathroom as hanging plants!
They are non-toxic to pets, and their vibrant green foliage can grow up to 2-3 feet long. Keep the soil consistently moist and mist regularly to maintain its lush appearance. We recommend styling them in hanging baskets.
Care tip:
- Place it in indirect light and keep the soil consistently moist, watering when the top inch feels dry.
- Mist regularly to maintain high humidity.
- When fronds turning yellow, it indicates low humidity or under-watering.
Propagation tip:
- Divide a healthy plant into sections which has fronds and roots.
- Plant them in well-draining potting soil.
- Keep the soil moist and place in bright, indirect light. Roots should establish in 4-6 weeks.
Symbolism and zodiac signs:
- Symbolizes sincerity and shelter. Ideal for Pisces known for their nurturing and empathetic nature
Pros and cons
$58
“Beautiful, lush plant that adds a lot of greenery to my home. Needs regular watering”
6. English Ivy
Toxic
medium light
Grows upto 8 feet
East/west Window
Toxic
Medium
grows upto 8 feet
East/west facing windows
The English Ivy (aka Hedera helix): This air purifying indoor plant belongs to the Araliaceae family. It has charming lobed leaves and variegated patterns of green and white. It thrives in medium light so we have place it in our east-facing room on the top floor.
We’ve styled it cascading from a hanging planter, which drapes around a chair by the window under which one of our roommates loves to read! This one is one of the easy to maintain plants— only needing moderate watering and occasional trimming. It’s toxic to pets, so keep it out of reach of curious cats and dogs.
When mature, it can trail up to 8-10 feet long, creating a lush, indoor vine effect.
Care tip:
- Thrives in bright, indirect light — needs watering when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Mist regularly to maintain humidity and watch for yellow leaves which is a sign of overwatering.
- No direct sunlight for this one — its leaves scorch..
Propagation tip:
- Cut a 4-6 inch stem with at least three leaves, place it in water until roots are 1-2 inches long (about 4-6 weeks), then transplant into well-draining soil..
Symbolism and zodiac signs:
- English Ivy symbolizes fidelity and eternal life — well-suited for Capricorns for their dedication and perseverance
Pros and cons
$58
“Great plant for beginners. It’s hardy and does well in indirect light”
7. Rubber plant
mildly toxic
Low to Medium light
Grows upto 6-10 feet
East/West Window
mildly Toxic
Low to Medium
grows upto 6-10 feet
East/West facing windows
The Rubber Plant (aka Ficus elastica): This indoor plant, a member of the Moraceae family, has glossy, broad leaves that can range from deep green to burgundy that help produce more oxygen than a lot of other indoor plants. We’ve placed ours in the south-facing room on the top floor, where it gets medium bright, indirect light.
This plant needs only moderate watering when the top inch of soil is dry. Definitely keep this one out of the reach of your pets. When mature, the Rubber Plant can grow up to 8-10 feet tall indoors, adds stunning height and drama to your space especially if you have tall ceilings.
We’ve styled ours in a minimalist black ceramic pot to complement its bold foliage that in turn enhances its modern look.
Care tip:
- The Rubber Plant thrives in low to medium indirect light.
- Needs watering when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch.
- Mist occasionally to keep its bold foliage glossy!.
Propagation tip:
- Cut a 6-inch stem with at least two leaves, place it in water until roots are 1-2 inches long (about 4-6 weeks), then transplant into well-draining soil
Symbolism and zodiac signs:
- Symbolizes abundance and good fortune — perfect for Taurus, known for their patience and love for nurturing greenery
Pros and cons
$43
“The Ficus is a statement piece in my living room. The variegated leaves are stunning and it’s very easy to care for”
8. Dracaena
Toxic
low/medium light
Grows upto 10 feet
Any Window
Toxic
low/medium
grows upto 10 feet
Any window
The Dracaena (aka Dracaena spp.): This indoor plant, a member of the Asparagaceae family, has sword-like leaves that come in various shades of green, and often accented with red or yellow edges. This plant brings a touch of the tropics to our home! We have placed it in the east-facing room in top floor, where it gets bright, indirect light.
Dracaena is easy to care for — needs moderate watering and low humidity. Just be cautious if you have pets, it is toxic to cats and dogs. When mature, Dracaena can reach up to 10 feet tall indoors. We’ve styled ours in a big, gray pot that complements and enhances its modern, dramatic aesthetic.
Read also: Dracaena Reflexa care
Care tip:
- Thrives in bright, indirect light — water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn and watch for brown tips – a sign of overwatering or fluoride sensitivity.
- Prefers low humidity — not good for bathroom.
Propagation tip:
- Cut a 6-inch stem with a few leaves, place it in water until roots are 1-2 inches long (about 4-6 weeks), then transplant into well-draining soil.
Symbolism and zodiac signs:
- Dracaena is generally associated with resilience and adaptability — perfect for Capricorn!
Pros and cons
$43
“I love how the Dracaena Golden Heart brightens up my living room with all of its pointy foliage”
9. Philodendron
Mildly Toxic
Low light
Grows upto 4 feet
Any window
Mildly Toxic
low light
grows upto 4 feet
Any window
The Philodendron (aka Philodendron spp.): This air purifying indoor plant, a member of the Araceae family, has heart-shaped, glossy green leaves. This plant is both stylish and functional. We have placed ours in the east-facing reading room, where it thrives in bright, indirect light. Philodendrons are easy to care for, needing watering when the top inch of soil is dry, and their vining leaves are set up perfectly for producing more oxygen into your home
They are toxic to cats so we have actually hung them high in a basket and are very careful to not let the leaves drop. Its vines cascade around the top of the window frames that add a super inviting dynamic element to the room. When mature, the Philodendron can trail or climb, growing up to 10 feet long indoors!
While Philodendrons rarely flower indoors, when they do, they produce small, white, or greenish flowers 🙂
Read also: Philodendron micans Care
Care tip:
- Thrive in bright, indirect light — need watering when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn . They’re low-maintenance — don’t let the furry animals ingest the leaves.
Propagation tip:
- Cut a 6-inch stem with at least one node, place it in water until roots are 1-2 inches long (about 4-6 weeks), then transplant into well-draining soil
Symbolism and zodiac signs:
- Often associated with health and growth — it is well-suited for Pisces for their nurturing and caring nature
Pros and cons
“Philodendron is stunning and easy to care for. It’s growing beautifully and quickly!” –
10. Areca palm
Pet safe
Bright light
Grows upto 10 feet
West/South Window
pet safe
Bright
grows upto 10 feet
West/South facing windows
The Areca Palm (aka Dypsis lutescens): This indoor plant, part of the Arecaceae family, has arching fronds that whisper of tropical climates, and are known for producing more oxygen than a lot of other plants. Their lush, light green leaves bring a soft, airy feel to your space.
We’ve placed our Areca Palm in the west-facing living room on the first floor where the bright, indirect light bathes its fronds, and where our furry animals roam around as this plant is not toxic. At the moment, it is styled in a large, white ceramic planter to go with its lush fronds. This tree is moderately easy to care for — needs regular watering to keep the soil lightly moist . But also needs occasional misting to replicate its native humid environment. it’s worth watching for spider mites or mealybugs.
When it matures, this palm can reach up to 6-7 feet, making a bold and dramatic vertical statement.
Care tip:
- Thrives in bright, indirect light. Water it when the top inch of soil feels dry — usually every 1-2 weeks.
- Drooping leaves signal overwatering or insufficient light. Consider misting it occasionally or placing a humidifier nearby to mimic its tropical origins.
Propagation tip:
- Separate one of the offshoots with its own roots and plant into potting soil. Water regularly to keep the soil moist, and place it in bright, indirect light. Root development for the new plant can take several weeks, unfortunately.
Symbolism and zodiac signs:
- The Areca Palm symbolizes peace and prosperity – apt for Libra’s appreciation for harmony and beauty in their environment.
Pros and cons
$41
“Easy to care for and looks tropical and fantastic. It’s a great addition to my home office”
11. Cast iron plant
Pet safe
Low light
Grows upto 2 feet
North facing Window
Pet safe
Low
grows upto 2 feet
North facing windows
The Cast Iron Plant (aka Aspidistra elatior): This indoor plant, from the Asparagaceae family has long, glossy, dark green leaves. This plant is incredibly tolerant and thrives in low light, surviving infrequent watering.
We’ve placed ours in the dining room on the first floor where it handles the low light beautifully. Styled in a classic terracotta pot, it brings a warm and rustic feel to our eating nook. The Best thing is that this beautiful plant is non-toxic to pets!
When it grows, it can reach up to 2-3 feet tall and wide — a perfect hardy and attractive plant that creates a sense of sanctuary with little to no effort.
Care tip:
- Thrives in low to medium light and needs watering only when the top inch of soil is dry — about every 2-3 weeks.
- Watch for yellowing leaves that can indicate overwatering. This is a hardy plant 🙂
Propagation tip:
- Divide the root clump with at least 2-3 leaves and healthy roots, and then plant divisions in well-draining potting soil.
- Keep in low to medium light.
- Watering only when the top inch of soil is dry. New growth will appear in a few weeks.
Symbolism and zodiac signs:
- The Cast Iron Plant symbolizes endurance and resilience — it ideal for Capricorns who value perseverance and stability
Pros and cons
$78
“The Cast Iron Plant is perfect for anyone who wants a hardy, low-maintenance plant. Mine arrived in perfect condition and looks great” – thesill.com customer
12. Marble queen pothos
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 10 ft
Window: East / North (Low light)
Care tip: Water when the top 50% of the potting mix is dry — it’s quite drought-tolerant and will bounce back if you forget occasionally. If the vines get leggy, feel free to trim them back – pruning encourages bushier growth, and you can stick the cuttings in water to easily propagate new plants!
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 1 ft
Window: East / North
Care tip: Low-light superstar—this plant stays vibrant even in dim areas. Keep it out of direct sun to avoid scorching its colorful leaves.
14. Lady Palm
Pet Safety: Safe
Size: 6 ft
Window: East / North
Care tip: xtremely adaptable to low light and indoor air—an easy, pet-safe palm that tolerates dry air and shady corners with ease.
15. Pineapple plant
Pet Safety: Safe
Size: 4 ft
Window: East / South (Bright light)
Care tip: This bromeliad loves sun – give it the brightest spot you have so it can potentially produce its little pineapple fruit. If your humidity is low, you can pour a bit of water into its leaf cup (center “tank”) – just refresh that water every week or so to prevent stagnation. After fruiting, the mother plant will slowly die back, but don’t worry — it usually produces baby pups around its base that you can pot up for a brand new pineapple plant.
16. Croton
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 4 ft
Window: East / West (Bright indirect)
Care tip: Once you’ve got it in a bright spot it likes, avoid moving it around too much; it may drop some leaves in protest to changes in light or temperature. If it gets leggy or too tall, pinch back the tips – this encourages bushier growth. (Wear gloves when pruning, coz its sap can irritate skin.)
17. Areca Palm
Pet Safety: safe
Size: 6 ft
Window: East / South
Care tip: Remove any brown fronds as they appear and provide bright light—this elegant palm is low-maintenance, but appreciates the occasional grooming to look its best.
18. Ponytail Palm
Pet Safety: Non-Toxic
Size: 3.5 ft
Window: West / South
Care tip: Incredibly drought-tolerant – its bulbous base stores water. When in doubt, skip watering (it truly needs water only about once a month). Give it plenty of sun for optimal growth.
19. Pothos ‘N’Joy’ (Epipremnum aureum ‘N’Joy’)
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 8 ft
Window: East / North
Care tip: Let its variegated vines cascade from a hanging basket for a pop of color. It’s hardy – tolerate some neglect – but thrives with an occasional pruning, which you can use to propagate new plants easily.
20. Rubber plant
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 6 ft
Window: East / South
Care tip: Wear gloves when pruning – the sap can irritate skin. Give it bright light for best color, and allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 3-5 ft
Window: North / South
Care tip: Exceptionally slow-growing – don’t worry if it only produces a new leaf once in a long while. Like other snake plants, it prefers neglect over too much attention: infrequent watering and almost any light level will keep it happy.
22. Purple Calathea
Pet Safety: Non-Toxic
Size: 1.5 ft
Window: East / north
Care tip: Calatheas love soft water – use filtered water to avoid leaf burn from minerals. They thrive in humidity, so consider placing them in a humid area (like a bathroom) or misting regularly for vibrant foliage.
23. Red Anthurium
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 1.5 ft
Window: East / South
Care tip: Loves humidity and warmth. Mist its leaves or use a humidifier to mimic its tropical home. Clip off spent flowers to redirect energy to new growth – with good light, it will reward you with more glossy red blooms.
24. Weeping fig
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 6.0 ft
Window: East / South (Bright
Care tip: Let the top inch of soil dry before watering and keep in a bright corner away from direct sun.
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 4 ft
Window: East / West (Bright/Medium light)
Care tip: Give it plenty of indirect light to keep those pink patches vibrant – if new leaves come in mostly green, it may need a brighter spot (but no harsh direct sun, which can scorch the variegation). This climber loves to vine, so provide a moss pole or stake; you’ll get larger leaves and more pink if it can climb. Water when the top inch of soil is dry (it doesn’t like soggy feet).
26. Monstera Thai Constellation
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 8 ft
Window: East / South (Bright light)
Care tip: Loves light – just avoid intense midday sun on its leaves (the pale marbling can burn). Let it climb a moss pole for support; a supported Monstera will reward you with bigger, hole-filled leaves. Prefers higher humidity, so consider a pebble tray or occasional misting. Water when the top 2 inches of soil are dry; it dislikes overwatering (watch for drooping or yellowing leaves as signs of too much water).
27. Black ZZ plant
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 3
Window: East / North (Low light)
Care tip: The ultimate low-maintenance plant – it actually prefers you forget to water it now and then. Let the soil fully dry out between waterings; its thick rhizomes store water, so overwatering is the only way to really upset it. New growth emerges bright green and then slowly deepens to near-black, so don’t be alarmed if young leaves are a different color – that’s part of its charm!
28. dracaena Marginata
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 6 ft
Window: East / south (Bright indirect light)
Care tip: Water when the soil is mostly dry and rotate the pot now and then to keep it growing straight.
29.Warneckii Dracaena
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 6 ft
Window: East / South (Bright light)
Care tip: Let the topsoil dry a bit before watering and avoid cold drafts to keep it healthy.
30. fiddle Leaf Fig
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 10 ft
Window: East / West (Medium light)
Care tip: Keep near a bright window and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
31. Parlor palm
Pet Safety: Safe
Size: 6 ft
Window: East / West (Medium/Bright indirect)
Care tip: Let the soil dry slightly between waterings and give it gentle light for slow growth.
32. Dumb cane
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 5 ft
Window: North / West (Low light)
Care tip: . Keep it in indirect light – too much sun can scorch its leaves, but too little can cause it to grow leggy. Don’t hesitate to prune it back – cut the cane and it will often sprout new growth from the cut stem base. You can even root the top you cut off to start a new plant.
33. Arrowhead Plant
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 2 ft
Window: East / south (Medium, direct light)
Care tip: Water often in summer and less in winter; prune for bushier growth.
34. Monstera (Monstera deliciosa)
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 8 ft
Window: East / South
Care tip: Wipe its huge, split leaves occasionally to remove dust and help it soak up light. Provide a sturdy moss pole for support – it will happily climb and reward you with larger, fenestrated leaves.
35. Silver Bay Chinese Evergreen
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 2 ft
Window: East / South
Care tip: Extremely low-light tolerant – it stays beautiful even in shadowy spots. Water when the top soil dries and keep away from AC or heater drafts for flawless foliage.
36. Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 2 ft
Window: East / West
Care tip: New leaves unfurl bright orange and gradually turn green – a normal spectacle! Give it medium light for best color, and rotate the pot occasionally so it grows evenly.
37. Money Tree
Pet Safety: Non-Toxic
Size: 6 ft
Window: East / South
Care tip: Avoid cold drafts—sudden chills can cause leaf drop. This resilient tree likes a consistent spot; turn it every so often for even growth, but otherwise let it enjoy stability.
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 3-5 ft
Window: North / South
Care tip: Exceptionally slow-growing – don’t worry if it only produces a new leaf once in a long while. Like other snake plants, it prefers neglect over too much attention: infrequent watering and almost any light level will keep it happy.
Pet Safety: Safe
Size: 6 ft
Window: East / South (Bright light)
Care tip: Needs lots of light to flower; keep soil moist during growth and drier in winter.
41 Kentia palm
Pet Safety: Non-Toxic
Size: 10 ft
Window: East / South
Care tip:Water when the topsoil is dry and avoid cold drafts or direct sun exposure.
42. Dracaena Fragrans
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 6 ft
Window: East / South (Bright Indirect light)
Care tip: Check the soil every few days and water when dry, keeping it in indirect light for lush leaves.
43. Begonia
Pet Safety: Non-Toxic
Size: 1.5 ft
Window: East / West (Bright/Medium light)
Care tip: Keep evenly moist and give it filtered light to maintain leaf color.
44. Purple Waffle Plant
Pet Safety: Non-Toxic
Size: 1 ft
Window: East / West
Care tip: Keep soil consistently moist – this little plant wilts quickly when dry, but perks right back up after watering. Pinch off any leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
45. Stromanthe Triostar
Pet Safety: Non-Toxic
Size: 2 ft
Window: East / North
Care tip: Show off its pink-streaked leaves in bright, indirect light – lower light may cause the colors to fade. It appreciates high humidity like its Calathea cousins (mist it to keep those tri-color leaves vibrant).
46. Rabbit Foot Fern
Pet Safety: Non-Toxic
Size: 1.5 ft
Window: East / North
Care tip: Those fuzzy “rabbit’s feet” rhizomes on the soil surface aren’t just for show – keep them slightly moist by misting to help this fern thrive. It enjoys humidity and gentle, even moisture (never let it dry out completely).
47. Purple Passion
Pet Safety: Safe
Size: 2 ft
Window: East / West
Care tip: Pinch off the tips regularly to keep it bushy and delay flowering (once this plant blooms, it’s nearing the end of its lifespan). This encourages a fuller, more vibrant purple display.
48. Maranta Red Prayer
Pet Safety: Non-Toxic
Size: 1 ft
Window: East / north
Care tip: Its red-veined leaves fold up each night like praying hands—totally normal! Keep soil lightly moist and provide humidity to prevent leaf curl.
47. Rubber plant
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 6 ft
Window: East / South
Care tip: Wear gloves when pruning – the sap can irritate skin. Give it bright light for best color, and allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
48. Silver Bay Chinese Evergreen
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 2 ft
Window: East / South
Care tip: Extremely low-light tolerant – it stays beautiful even in shadowy spots. Water when the top soil dries and keep away from AC or heater drafts for flawless foliage.
49. mickey Mouse Alocasia
Pet Safety: Toxic
Size: 2 ft
Window: East / South (Bright/Medium light)
Care tip: Needs high humidity and warm temps; water when the topsoil is dry.
50. Ficus Audrey
Pet Safety: Safe
Size: 10 ft
Window: East / South (Bright light)
Care tip: Water when the top inch is dry and keep in bright light without drafts.
How to choose indoor plants that produce more oxygen for your needs?
Here are the top 5 things to consider:
1. Effectiveness In Air Purification
Some plants are better at removing toxins than others. Good options include spider plants – which are particularly good at removing formaldehyde and xylene – and snake plant – excelling at filtering out trichloroethylene, benzene, and formaldehyde.
But remember, if air purification is your number one and most important need, we recommend buying air purifiers. With plants, air purification is slow and should be be considered an added bonus along with an array of other benefits they provide.
2. Matching the size of the room:
Larger plants like the Areca Palm are suitable for bigger spaces such as the living room, or an open kitchen layout, and not just larger plants, but the ones with larger leaves are more effective in such spaces. While smaller plants like the Lemon Button Fern are perfect for smaller, compact spaces such as your office desk, or kitchen counters, or could even be best for your bedroom that gets some light.
3. Pet and Child Safety:
Houseplants are meant to provide you with a sense of safety and seclusion – including to your toddlers and furry animals. In the list below we have provided the toxicity levels of each plant as referred from the ASPCA, and also from our experience from having two cats roaming around our brownstone.
There are ways to include mildly toxic plants by keeping them out of reach and safely stowed. We also explore some ways to do so below. We also have a separate article for pet safe houseplants if you want to only consider them.
4. Light and Water Requirements:
Some plants need more water and other can go on for weeks without watering. Some plants need direct bright light, and other need indirect, and some can even thrive with a few hours of grow lights. It is important to decide where you want to place the plants based on their light requirements. Below in the list, we tell you not just the requirements, but also where in our house we have placed, including the direction it faces in relation to the sun.
5. Aesthetics and Well-being:
Plants like the variegated spider plant and the Hawaiian Sunshine Dragon Tree not only clean the air but also add a touch of beauty and vitality to your living spaces. You can consider hanging plants, colorful plants, flowering plants, plants with large leaves before you make a purchase, to best suit your requirements.
While large plants help provide a sense of enclosure around where you sit, small plants breathe life into lifeless objects. In the list below we cover all the above attributes to help you decide what to get.
Which houseplants are best for more oxygen?
Spider plants, snake plants, Boston ferns, and aloe vera are the best for purifying air. They also remove toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene from indoor environments.
How many houseplants do I need to improve air quality?
NASA recommends at least one air-purifying plant per 100 square feet of space. And please remember, if air purification is your sole intention, buy an air purifier.
Can high oxygen producing indoor plants replace air purifiers?
They work best when used alongside traditional air purifiers. Plants alone are not sufficient for removing all pollutants from indoor air.
Are there any high oxygen producing indoor plants safe for pets?
Yes: spider plants, Boston ferns, and areca palms are pet safe, to name a few.
Where should I place these high oxygen producing plants for maximum effectiveness?
Place air-purifying plants in high-traffic areas, near entrances, in bedrooms, and in bathrooms. These locations enhance photosynthesis, and which in turn helps with better purification of air as they absorb CO2 more effectively.
note on how we compile this list
This list wasn’t just pulled together—we grew it, lived with it, and double-checked it. We spoke to fellow community gardeners, including one of our own housemates, and drew from our experience caring for hundreds of houseplants in our Brooklyn community home. We also verified plant details with authoritative sources like The Spruce, Better Homes & Gardens, The Sill, ASPCA, and Garden Design to make sure every recommendation is trustworthy, accurate, and helpfu!
Conclusion
Choosing the right air-cleaning houseplants can tremendously enhance the air quality in your home. Consider plants above based on all the information we have provided and what suits your needs. Like we have said before, they don’t purify air dramatically, using air purifiers is best if that is your sole intention. But plants are amazing and we hope this article has pointed you in the right direction. Please write to us below if you have found it useful, or if you have any experience growing these so we can help the community!
