The Easy-To-Grow Plant That Can Help Freshen The Air In Your Home

Indoor air pollution is an invisible adversary that silently infiltrates our homes, bringing with it a myriad of potential health risks. From common culprits like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by household items to pollutants generated during cooking and smoking, the air we breathe indoors often harbors contaminants that can impact our well-being. However, there's a green secret that Mother Nature generously provides to combat this silent threat — the remarkable ability of plants like the purple spiderwort to purify the air we breathe.

Plants have long been recognized not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their profound impact on air quality. Through a process known as phytoremediation, plants absorb and neutralize pollutants, transforming our living spaces into healthier environments.

Scientifically known as Tradescantia pallida, purple spiderwort (aka purple heart plant, purple queen spiderwort, etc.) is known for its lush foliage and distinctive purple hue. It's not just a visual delight; it's a powerhouse in the realm of air purification. In fact, in one University of Georgia study, purple spiderwort is classified as one of five "super ornamentals," or plants with impressive rates in the removal of air contaminants. The other four super ornamentals include the purple waffle plant (Hemigraphis alternata), English ivy (Hedera helix), variegated wax plant (Hoya carnosa), and asparagus fern (Asparagus densiflorus).

To appreciate the purple spiderwort's ability to purify indoor air, it's crucial to understand the common foes it combats. Benzene, emanating from tobacco smoke and household products, and formaldehyde, released by furniture and building materials, are pervasive indoor pollutants. These substances not only compromise indoor air quality but also pose health risks, making it imperative to deploy effective air-purifying solutions.

Purple spiderwort possesses an innate ability to combat indoor pollutants. This resilient plant absorbs airborne contaminants through its leaves and stems. The unique architecture of purple spiderwort foliage allows for an increased surface area, facilitating the efficient capture of pollutants. Besides being a powerful indoor air purifier, the purple spiderwort has also been used in various studies involving the phytoremediation of polluted soil and wastewater, and for evaluating air quality in an entire city.

To unleash the full air-purifying potential of purple spiderwort, it's essential to provide optimal care. This resilient plant thrives in bright light, making it an ideal candidate for full sun exposure, except during scorchingly hot summer afternoons. Ensure it is planted in a well-draining organic soil mix to prevent waterlogged conditions. Allowing the soil to dry out between waterings will help ensure plant health and vitality.

Growing your own air-purifying haven begins with understanding the simplicity and adaptability of propagating purple spiderwort. Propagation is easily achieved through stem cuttings, a process that even novice gardeners can master. Select a healthy stem, free from any signs of disease or damage, and make a clean cut just below a node. Remove any lower leaves to expose a few inches of the stem, and then plant it in moist soil. This resilient plant is quick to root, showcasing its adaptability and ease of cultivation. With minimal effort, you can multiply the air-purifying benefits of purple spiderwort and boost its air-purifying power in your home. Make sure to wear gloves when handling purple spiderwort as contact with its juice can cause skin irritation in some susceptible individuals and dogs.

While purple spiderwort stands as an effective air-purifying plant, creating a comprehensive air quality strategy for your home involves introducing other types of greenery that will complement its efforts. Consider adding snake plants (Sansevieria), known for their exceptional ability to filter out toxins like formaldehyde, and peace lilies (Spathiphyllum), renowned for their capacity to remove mold spores and VOCs, and other air-purifying greens. These companion plants, alongside purple spiderwort, form a harmonious ensemble of air-purifying botanicals, elevating the overall effectiveness of your indoor garden in keeping the air fresh and clean.