Thompson & Morgan Gardening Blog

We all know that houseplants look great, but did you know they have health benefits too? Air purifying houseplants help to remove household toxins from the air while indoor greenery allows you to connect with nature in a positive way. And what about the Insta-worthy indoor plants that can be used to boost your immune system or moisturise your skin? Here’s why every home should have house plants…

Browse our full range of house plants to find the best options for every room of your home.

What are the benefits of house plants?

According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), there are many benefits to living and working around indoor plants. These include:

• Improved mood
• A reduction in stress
• Increased productivity
• Improvements in attention span and concentration
• A reduction in levels of fatigue and headaches

Interestingly, research from Kansas State University in 2008 also showed that hospital patients treated in rooms with plants needed lower levels of pain killers. It’s not entirely clear how house plants provide such benefits, but studies of biophilia have shown that indoor greenery has a hugely positive effect. Plants, combined with natural light, certainly create a calming atmosphere that fosters a sense of peace and tranquility.

5 of the best indoor plants for health and wellbeing

1: Dracaena fragrans (Dragon tree)

The dragon tree has lovely striated foliage
Image: Dracaena fragrans ‘Lemon Lime’ from T&M

A good choice for beginners, the dragon tree’s attractive, architectural foliage removes a huge number of toxins from the air. Native to tropical Africa, it happily grows in bright sunny rooms, but is just as content in shadier locations. Over time, the dragon tree can reach up to 120cm tall, making a real statement that only gets better with age.

2: Spathiphyllum ‘Torelli’ (Peace Lily)

The peace lily is a classic houseplant
Image: Spathiphyllum ‘Torelli’ from T&M

Studied by NASA and found to be one of the most effective air-purifying houseplants you can own, the peace lily (spathiphyllum ‘Torelli’) is an elegant choice that features delicate white blossoms against lovely dark green leaves. Native to the humid tropics, it prefers to be kept away from dry heat, cold draughts and the direct glare of the sun. However, it’s a great option for beginners as it’s fairly forgiving and thrives in the more difficult and shady corners of kitchens and bathrooms.

3: Sansevieria Trifasciata Var. Laurentii (Snake plant)

Snake plants are virtually indestructible
Image: Sansevieria trifasciata var. Laurentii from T&M

This is the perfect plant for those with a bad memory! The snake plant (Sansevieria Trifasciata Var. Laurentii), or mother-in-law’s tongue as it’s sometimes called, is very forgiving and won’t mind if you forget to water it every now and then. Glossy, erect, variegated leaves slowly emerge from the centre, cleansing the air of many harmful toxins. Almost indestructible, this gorgeous plant is happy almost anywhere in your home including cooler spots or draughty hallways.

4: Ananas comosus (Pineapple plant)

Enjoy a domesticated pineapple in the centre of your living room
Image: Pineapple plant from T&M

The pineapple plant produces oxygen during the night when most other plants are dormant making it an ideal way to keep the air fresh in bedrooms while you sleep. Reaching 90cm in height, this tropical plant sends out arching silvery foliage and is capped off by the large familiar fruit. Never lacking in drama, it also produces amazing cones of purple flowers with bright red bracts during the summer pre-repeat fruiting. This really is a unique plant that also makes an excellent housewarming gift.

5: Capsicum annuum (Chilli Pepper)

Chilli ‘Apache’ produces a prolific crop of fiery bright red peppers
Image: Chilli ‘Apache’ from T&M

For something a little unexpected, chillies make excellent houseplants! Their beautiful pods don’t just brighten up the room, they’re a colourful way to add a healthy shot of vitamin C (as well as vitamin B6, vitamin K1, potassium, copper and vitamin A) to home-cooked meals, pickles and condiments. Grow a variety like Chilli ‘Apache’ on a sunny kitchen windowsill for an easy crop within arms reach. Its neat and compact dark green foliage reaches just 45cm, providing the perfect backdrop for small, bright red peppers that pack a fiery, vitamin-fueled punch!

House plants do far more than decorate our homes and offices. They connect us to nature and contribute to a happy and healthy environment. Learn how to care for your house plants with these helpful tips and visit our dedicated house plant advice hub for more helpful information.

Lead image: Air Purifying Houseplant Collection from T&M

Thompson & Morgan

The Thompson & Morgan horticultural team produces a wealth of content around gardening and food production. Since the first seed catalogue was published in 1855, Thompson & Morgan has grown to become one of the UK’s largest Mail Order Seed and Plant companies. Through the publication of our catalogues and the operation of our award-winning website, Thompson & Morgan is able to provide home gardeners with the very best quality products money can buy.