English Ivy Plants

Characteristics of English Ivy Plants:

English ivy plants can act as groundcovers, spreading horizontally and reaching 8" in
height. But they are also climbers, due to their aerial rootlets, which allow them to climb
to heights of 50' or more. They will eventually bear insignificant greenish flowers but are
grown primarily for their evergreen foliage.

Care for English Ivy Plants:

Trim them in the spring, to keep them manageable and discourage bacterial leaf spot.
Spray with insecticidal soap and horticultural oil as necessary to control mites.

Sun and Soil Requirements for English Ivy Plants:

Grow in a well-drained soil in part shade to full shade.

Uses for English Ivy Plants in Landscape Design:

Their ability to grow in shade has made English ivy plants a traditional groundcover for
problematic areas under trees, where most grasses do not grow well. Their vigorous,
dense grow habit makes them an effective groundcover where the object is to crowd out
weeds. On slopes, they can be used for erosion control. Some take advantage of the
climbing ability of these vines to use them to cover a wall, while others grow them in
hanging baskets, letting them cascade over the sides.

Caveats in Growing English Ivy Plants:

English ivy plants have fallen out of favor in many circles in North America, where they
are considered invasive plants. These days, it seems as many people wish to learn how to
get rid of them as wish to grow them. They are also poisonous plants.

English Ivy Plants in History:

In the Christmas carol, "The Holly and The Ivy," we see a symbolism with these two
evergreen plants that derives from pagan times. While the druids thought of holly as
masculine and suggestive of a male deity, English ivy plants for them represented female
divinity.
In the ancient Greco-Roman world, ivy was sacred to the god, Dionysus (Bacchus in
Latin).

Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Chlorophytum comosum (Spider Plant) -

Plant Profile, Culture and Propagation :

• Botanical Name: Chlorophytum comosum

• Common Name: Spider Plant, Variegated Spider Plant, Ribbon Plant, Airplane
Plant.
• Family name: Liliaceae (Lily Family)
• Plant type: An evergreen herbaceous perennial, native to South Africa.
• Light: Bright light or partial shade; Can tolerate direct morning sunlight, but
avoid direct midday/afternoon sunlight that can scorch its leaves.
• Moisture: Performs well with regular watering and do allow soil to dry out
between waterings. It can tolerate dry or humid conditions.
• Soil: Well-drained loamy soil though adaptable to any kind of garden or potting
soil.

• Propagation: Easily propagated by dividing its root

and stem mass. Or the better and easier alternative is by removing the baby
plantlets growing along the elongated stolons and planting them individually in
pots or on ground or in water.
Moreover, Spider Plants love to be pot bound and by not disturbing the main root
mass, they will produce more plantlets to reward you. And, if the parent plant is
planted on ground, the baby plantlets that it produces take root easily wherever
they touch the ground.
Chlorophytum can also be propagated from seeds, though rarely done.
(Update: Scroll down the page to Jacqueline’s and David’s comments dated
February 7 & 24, 2009 to find out how-to.)

• Features: Chlorophytum comosum is a fast growing,

evergreen clump-forming plant reaching 1-1.5 ft tall with a spread of 2 feet,
popularly grown for its attractive foliage. Its grass-like recurving leaves that grow
from a central rosette are long, slender and tapering, measuring 20-40 cm (8-15
 in) long and less than 2 cm broad.
The species, Chlorophytum comosum, has medium to dark-green satiny leaves,
but most cultivars are variegated. Variegated leaves come in various shades of
green bands with a white or yellow center stripe or vice versa. As it matures, it
produces gracefully arching stolons that can be 1-3 ft long, and adorned with
small white starry flowers (less than 1.5cm across). At the flowering nodes, baby
plantlets are formed, resembling its miniature self, though more spider-like with
their cluster of curled leaves and air roots. Hence, aptly known by their common
names ‘Spider Plant’ or ‘Airplane Plant’. It has fleshy tuberous roots that store
reserve food.
• Usage: Spider Plants make excellent house plants or indoor plants as they are not
only such easy-growing plants but have beneficial properties in cleansing the air
of pollutants, especially formaldehyde and carbon monoxide. As it tolerates
artificial lighting very well and has air purifying abilities, it’s most ideal in office
environment where electronic pollutants are emitted. Chlorophytum is perfectly
showy in hanging baskets, whether indoors or outside, as well as an ideal
groundcover in garden beds or borders. Excellent too for container gardening or
planter boxes, placed at balconies, window sills or raised on a pedestal.

Care: Requires bright light or filtered sunlight for best growth and vibrant leaf colors.
Never locate Spider Plants in full sun that will scorch their foliage. Remove yellow or
dried leaves to keep it tidy. Be aware that too little water, too low humidity, too much
salts and excess fluorides in the water can cause leaf tips to turn brown. Mist leaves
occasionally and preferably water them with rain water or aquarium water. Fertilize
sparingly as excess nutrients can retard its ability to produce more plantlets. Plants are
susceptible to root rot if waterlogged, otherwise they are least bothered by pests and
diseases!

Golden pothos or Devil's ivy

(Scindapsus aures or Epipremnum aureum)

Epipremnum aureum, also known as the Pothos (once classified under the genus
Pothos), Silver Vine, Money Plant, Centipede tongavine, Devil's Ivy and Solomon
Islands' Ivy, is an aroid native to southeastern Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia) and New
Guinea. It is sometimes mistakenly labeled as a Philodendron in plant stores.
Cultivation and uses

Vine

It is a popular houseplant with numerous cultivars selected for leaves with white, yellow,
or light green variegation. It is often used in decorative displays in shopping centers,
offices, and other public locations largely because it is a very hardy plant that requires
little care and is also attractively leafy. It is also efficient at removing indoor pollutants
such as formaldehyde, xylene, and benzene[1][2] A study found that this effect became less
the higher the molecular weight of the polluting substance.[3]

As a houseplant it can reach a height of two meters or more, given suitable support. For
best results it requires medium indirect light; bright light is tolerated, but lengthy spells of
direct sun will scorch the leaves. The plant prefers a temperature of between 17 to 30 °C
(63 to 86 °F). Generally it only needs water when the soil begins to feel dry to the touch.
For best results a liquid fertilizer can be added in spring, and they should be repotted
every couple of years. However, this is a robust plant that can stand a very high degree of
abuse. It will grow hydroponically quite readily.

The plant is listed as "toxic to cats, toxic to dogs" by the ASPCA, because of the presence
of insoluble calcium oxalates. Care should be taken to ensure the plant is not consumed
by house pets or children. Symptoms may include oral irritation, vomiting, and difficulty
swallowing.[4]

[edit] Invasive Species

This creeper can become a highly invasive species when introduced into tropical
countries where it is not native. In Sri Lanka it overgrows several hectares of the
Udawattakele Forest Reserve in Kandy.[5] Having no natural enemies, it completely
overgrows the forest floor as well as the trunks of trees, causing severe ecological
disruption.

Epipremnum aureum overgrowing Udawattakele forest

It also invades the Kurulukele Forest Reserve in Kegalla and other places where it has
been planted as decorative plant or to hold steep banks along roads. In Florida it can also
be an invasive species

Peace lily (Spathiphyllum 'Mauna Loa')

Spathiphyllum is a genus of about 40 species of monocotyledonous flowering plants in

the family Araceae, native to tropical regions of the Americas and southeastern Asia.
Certain species of Spathiphyllum are commonly known as Spath or Peace Lilies.

They are evergreen herbaceous perennial plants with large leaves 12-65 cm long and 3-
25 cm broad. The flowers are produced in a spadix, surrounded by a 10-30 cm long,
white, yellowish, or greenish spathe. The plant does not need excessive light or water to
survive.

Cultivation and uses

Several species are popular indoor houseplants. Spathiphyllum cleans indoor air of many
environmental contaminants, including benzene, formaldehyde, and other pollutants.[1][2]
It cleans best at one plant per 10 m².[3] It lives best in shade and needs little sunlight to
thrive. It is watered approximately once a week. The soil is best left moist but only needs
watering if the soil is dry. [4]

Spathiphyllum is mildly toxic to humans and animals when ingested

Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema modestum)

Aglaonema is a genus of about 40 species of foliage plants in the family Araceae, native
to the tropical swamps and rainforests of southeastern Asia from Bangladesh east to the
Philippines and north to southern China. No common name is widely used, though they
are sometimes called "Chinese evergreen".

They are herbaceous perennial plants growing to 20-150 cm in height. The leaves are
alternate on the stems, lanceolate to narrowly ovate, dark to medium green, 10-45 cm
long and 4-16 cm broad, depending on the species. The flowers are relatively
inconspicuous, white or greenish-white spathes that can give way to red berries.

The sap of this plant is poisonous to health. It causes irritation in skin and if taken orally
causes irritation of mouth, lips, throat and tongue.

Cultivation and uses

They are popular houseplants and ornamental plants for offices and shopping malls
because they are among the easiest houseplants to grow. Numerous cultivars have been
selected, including plants with variegated leaves. They tolerate a wide range of light, as
well as neglect, and are relatively resistant to pests.

Chinese evergreens are very tolerant plants that do well in a variety of settings. Several
species are available, some with dark green leaves and others that are variegated.
Aglaonema flourish for years.

They prefer indirect light and partial shade. They do best in shadow-less light, such as a
north window. They prefer heavy soil, which should be kept moist but not soggy. They
do not tolerate the cold; they should not be exposed to temperatures below 10°C (50°F),
with optimal growing conditions between 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F). High air
humidity is also important. They are easy to propagate from cuttings, which will root in a
glass of water, or from divisions.
Snake plant or mother-in-law's tongue
(Sansevieria trifasciata 'Laurentii')

Sansevieria trifasciata is a species of Sansevieria, native to tropical west Africa from

Nigeria east to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is an evergreen herbaceous
perennial plant forming dense stands, spreading by way of its creeping rhizome, which is
sometimes above ground, sometimes underground. Its stiff leaves grow vertically from a
basal rosette. Mature leaves are dark green with light gray-green cross-banding and
usually range between 70–90 cm in length and 5–6 cm in width.

It is commonly called the snake plant (not to be confused with the very similarly named
"Snakeplant", Nassauvia serpens), because of the shape of its leaves, or mother-in-law's
tongue because of their sharpness. In Japan it is also called 'Tiger's Tail,(とらのお）'. In
Brazil it is commonly known as espada-de-são-jorge (sword-of-saint-george). Due to its
bladelike shape, it is commonly associated with Ogun, the orisha of war (usually
associated with Saint George), and is used in rituals to remove the evil eye. A yellow-
tipped variant is known as espada-de-santa-barbara (sword-of-saint-barbara), and is
associated with Iansan/Oya, the female orisha of storms (usually associated with the
sword-bearing image of Saint Barbara). In Africa the plant is used as a protective charm
against evil or bewitchment.
Cultivation and uses

A variegated cultivar of Sansevieria trifasciata

Like some other members of its genus, S. trifasciata yields bowstring hemp, a strong
plant fiber once used to make bowstrings.

It is now used predominantly as an ornamental plant, outdoors in warmer climates, and

indoors as a houseplant in cooler climates. It is popular as a houseplant as it is tolerant of
low light levels and irregular watering; during winter it needs only one watering every
couple of months. It will rot easily if overwatered.[1] In common with the great majority
of house-plants, it can improve indoor air quality by passively adsorbing toxins such as
nitrogen oxides and formaldehyde.

Numerous cultivars have been selected, many of them for variegated foliage with yellow
or silvery-white stripes on the leaf margins. Popular cultivars include 'Compacta',
'Goldiana', 'Hahnii', 'Laurentii', 'Silbersee', and 'Silver Hahnii'.

It can be propagated by cuttings or by dividing the rhizome. The first method has the
disadvantage that the variegation is likely to be lost.

S. trifasciata is considered by some authorities as a potential weed in Australia, although

widely used as an ornamental, in both the tropics outdoors in both pots and garden beds
and as an indoor plant in temperate areas

Red-edged dracaena (Dracaena marginata)

Dracaena marginata (Madagascar Dragon Tree or Red Edged Dracaena) is a
flowering plant in the family Ruscaceae, native to Madagascar. It is a slow-growing
shrub or small tree, eventually reaching heights of 2-5 m. The thin leaves are linear and a
deep, glossy green color with red edges; typically 30-90 cm long and 2-7 cm broad,
tapering to an acuminate point.

Cultivation and uses

It is a popular houseplant that needs little attention, with several cultivars available with
the leaves variegated with red or pale yellow. It requires a minimum temperature of 15 °C
(59 °F), and is more tolerant than most plants of dry soil and irregular watering, though
liable to root decay in permanently wet soil. Because it requires minimal care it is very
popular in offices where the constant heat and light suits their growing requirements.

It has been widely confused with other species of Dracaena, and many or most of the
plants in cultivation under this name may actually be D. cincta or D. concinna (Huxley
1992).

It is one of the plants used in the NASA Clean Air Study and has shown to help remove
formaldehyde.[1]

The dragon tree is an effective air-cleaner and is among the best plants for removing
xylene and trichloroethylene [2]
D. marginata is very susceptible to fluoride toxicity. It usually cannot tolerate direct
sunlight even though the plants like high light situations the best. However, almost any
light level will do

Cornstalk dracaena
(Dracaena fragans 'Massangeana')

Dracaena fragrans (Corn Plant, Chinese Money Tree, or Cornstalk Dracaena) is a

flowering plant species in the family Ruscaceae, that resembles a corn stalk in habitus. It
is native to West Africa, Tanzania, and Zambia. Dracaena fragrans has rosettes of
glossy, green leaves, broadly striped and banded with light green and yellow down the
center. It is a slow growing pole shrub and the leaves can reach up to 3 feet (1 m) long by
4 inches (10 cm) wide. When plants are grown in the ground, they can reach about
20 feet (6.1 m) tall, but their growth is limited when they are potted. Cornstalk Dracaena
has white flowers that are highly fragrant, hence the specific name fragans. They are
popular with insects, and in the Neotropics get rarely visited by a few generalist
hummingbird species like the Sapphire-spangled Emerald (Amazilia lactea)

Cultivation and uses

It is a popular houseplant with several cultivars available with the leaves variegated with
white or yellow stripes. The most popular cultivar 'Massangeana' has showy yellow
variegation. Cultivar 'Compacta' is more compact, for indoor locations. Dracaena
fragrans can grow in a wide range of conditions, from full sun to low interior light
conditions. They seem to have the best color when grown in about 50% shade. These
plants are very drought tolerant
Janet Craig dracaena
(Dracaena deremensis 'Janet Craig')

Dracaena deremensis is a tropical shrub of the Dracaena genus. Dracaena deremensis

grows as an 8 to 12 feet unbranched rosette of evergreen leaves, though some cultivars
are variegated in a white to grey-green color. Dracaena deremensis is also commonly
grown as an indoor houseplant and includes the popular cultivars 'Janet Craig' and
'Warneckii'. When chilled, 'Janet Craig' produces strongly fragrant white flowers on
stalks 10-12 inches in length. Flowering is rare when kept indoors.

Dracaena deremensis has also been shown by the NASA Clean Air Study to help remove
chemicals such as Formaldehyde as well as xylene and toluene[1].

Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)

Ficus benjamina, commonly known as the Weeping Fig or Benjamin's Fig and often
sold in stores as just a "Ficus", is a species of fig tree, native to south and southeast Asia
and Australia. It is the official tree of Bangkok, Thailand. It is a topiary tree reaching
30 metres (98 ft) tall in natural conditions, with gracefully drooping branchlets and glossy
leaves 6–13 cm (2–5 in) long, oval with an acuminate tip. In its native range, its small
fruit are a favorite food of some birds, such as the Superb Fruit-dove, Wompoo Fruit-
dove, Pink-spotted Fruit-dove, Ornate Fruit-dove, Orange-bellied Fruit-dove, Torresian
Imperial-pigeon, Purple-tailed Imperial-pigeon
Gerbera Daisy or Barberton daisy
(Gerbera jamesonii)

Gerbera (pronounced /ˈdʒɜrbərə/) L. is a genus of ornamental plants from the sunflower

family (Asteraceae). It was named in honour of the German naturalist Traugott Gerber, a
friend of Carolus Linnaeus.[1]

It has approximately 30 species in the wild, extending to South America, Africa and
tropical Asia. The first scientific description of a Gerbera was made by J.D. Hooker in
Curtis's Botanical Magazine in 1889 when he described Gerbera jamesonii, a South
African species also known as Transvaal daisy or Barberton Daisy.

Gerbera species bear a large capitulum with striking, two-lipped ray florets in yellow,
orange, white, pink or red colours. The capitulum, which has the appearance of a single
flower, is actually composed of hundreds of individual flowers. The morphology of the
flowers varies depending on their position in the capitulum. The flower heads can be as
small as 7 cm (Gerbera mini 'Harley') in diameter or up to 12 cm (Gerbera ‘Golden
Serena’).

Gerbera is very popular and widely used as a decorative garden plant or as cut flowers.
The domesticated cultivars are mostly a result of a cross between Gerbera jamesonii and
another South African species Gerbera viridifolia. The cross is known as Gerbera
hybrida. Thousands of cultivars exist. They vary greatly in shape and size. Colours
include white, yellow, orange, red, and pink. The centre of the flower is sometimes black.
Often the same flower can have petals of several different colours.
Gerbera is also important commercially. It is the fifth most used cut flower in the world
(after rose, carnation, chrysanthemum, and tulip).[citation needed] It is also used as a model
organism in studying flower formation. Gerbera contains naturally occurring coumarin
derivatives. Gerbera is a tender annual flower.

This plant is attractive to bees, butterflies and/or birds. This plant is resistant to deer

Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)

"Rubber bush" redirects here. For the auto part, see rubber bushing.

Ficus elastica, also called the rubber fig, rubber bush, rubber plant, or Indian rubber
bush is a species of plant in the fig genus, native to northeast India and southern
Indonesia.
Leaves of Ficus elastica

It is a fat bush in the banyan group of figs, growing to 30–40 metres (98–130 ft) (rarely
up to 60 metres / 200 feet) tall, with a stout trunk up to 2 metres (6.6 ft) diameter. The
trunk develops aerial and buttressing roots to anchor it in the soil and help support heavy
branches. It has broad shiny oval leaves 10–35 centimetres (3.9–14 in) long and 5–15
centimetres (2.0–5.9 in) broad; leaf size is largest on young plants (occasionally to 45
centimetres / 18 inches long), much smaller on old trees (typically 10 centimetres / 3.9
inches long). The leaves develop inside a sheath at the apical meristem, which grows
larger as the new leaf develops. When it is mature, it unfurls and the sheath drops off the
plant. Inside the new leaf, another immature leaf is waiting to develop.

As with other members of the genus Ficus, the flowers require a particular species of fig
wasp to pollinate it in a co-evolved relationship. Because of this relationship, the rubber
plant does not produce highly colourful or fragrant flowers to attract other pollinators.
The fruit is a small yellow-green oval fig 1 centimetre (0.39 in) long, barely edible; it will
only contain viable seed where the relevant fig wasp species is present.

In parts of India, people guide the roots of the tree over chasms to eventually form living
bridges[1].

Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata "Bostoniensis")

The Sword Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) is a species of fern in the family

Lomariopsidaceae (sometimes treated in the families Davalliaceae or Oleandraceae, or in
its own family, Nephrolepidaceae), native to tropical regions throughout the world. It is
common in humid forests and swamps, especially in northern South America, Mexico,
Central America, Florida, the West Indies, Polynesia and Africa. Also known as the Wild
Boston fern, Tuber ladder fern or Fishbone fern is in the broader family of sword fern.

The fronds are 50-250 cm long and 6-15 cm broad, with alternate pinnae (the small
"leaflets" on either side of the midrib), each pinna being 2-8 cm long. The pinnae are
generally deltoid, as seen in the picture to the right. The pinnate vein pattern is also
visible on these highly compound leaves. The edges appear slightly serrate. The species
has erect fronds, but Nephrolepis exaltata cv. Bostoniensis (Boston Fern), the most
commonly cultivated cultivar, has gracefully arching fronds. This mutation was
discovered in a shipment of N. exaltata to Boston from Philadelphia in 1894.[1]

[edit] Cultivation and uses

The Boston fern is a very popular house plant, often grown in hanging baskets or similar
conditions. It is a perennial plant hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 9-11. Although
the fern may appear totally dead due to frost, it will re-emerge in the spring. In general,
the Boston fern likes damp, but not soggy soil that is rich in nutrients. Of the common
cultivated ferns, the Boston fern is the most tolerant to drought. The fern thrives best in
humid conditions, so when grown as a house plant it becomes necessary to mist the plant
when relative humidity falls below around 80%. Although outdoors this plant prefers
partial shade or full shade, inside it grows best in bright filtered light. This plant is
usually propagated by division of the rooted runners, as named cultivars will not produce
true spores.

Boston fern is native to Florida, the West Indies, and Asian Pacific. A related species, the
Tuberous Sword fern (Nephrolepis cordifolia), is frequently confused with Boston fern
and is a serious exotic invasive plant, forming dense monocultures.

Wild Boston fern growing in Leon

Wild Boston fern growing along a woodland
County, Florida
path in Leon County, Florida

Kimberly queen fern (Nephrolepis obliterata)

Kimberly Queen Fern (Nephrolepis obliterata) is a species of fern in the family

Lomariopsidaceae.[1] This fern originated in Australia, but is relatively easy cultivate
indoors worldwide.[2]

The kimberly queen is not as well known as the Boston fern. Because it is not as sensitive
to a lack of humidity, it is better suited for the typical indoor environment.

[edit] Cultivation

Nephrolepis obliterata prefer bright, but indirect sunlight. Temperatures between 60 °F

and 75 °F are best. Nephrolepis obliterata is sensitive to both too little and too much
water, so water the plant well but permit the soil to dry out between waterings.[3]
Nephrolepis obliterata has the added benefit of reducing indoor air pollution, particularly
formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene.

Dumb cane (Camilla) (Dieffenbachia)

Dieffenbachia (pronounced /ˌdiːfɨnˈbækiə/)[1] is a genus of tropical plants in the Family

Araceae noted for their patterned leaves. The name commemorates Ernst Dieffenbach, a
German physician. Members of this genus are popular as houseplants because of their
tolerance for shade. The common name is 'dumb cane' due to its poisoning effect on the
throat due to raphides.
 Favorable conditions for houseplants

Dieffenbachia plants can grow outdoors in tropical climates, but specimens kept as
houseplants must be kept indoors during most of the year outside the tropics.
Temperatures below about 5˚C (40˚F) can kill the plant. The plant needs light but filtered
sunlight through a window is usually sufficient. When the plant is brought home from the
nursery, it will likely need repotting. The plant needs moderately moist soil. The soil
should be fertilized with either regular liquid fertilizing or fertilizer pellets or spikes.
Leaves will periodically roll up and fall off to make way for new leaves. Yellowing of the
leaves is generally a sign of problematic conditions, such as a nutrient deficiency in the
soil. Dieffenbachia responds well to hot temperatures and dry climates.
King of hearts (Homalomena wallisii)

Bright green leaves blotched with yellow about six inches (15cm) long
Description:
in a wide-spreading clump.
Origin: Colombia
Environment: Suitable for the home or a greenhouse
Foliage: Yes
Flowering: No
Season:
Fragrant: No
Growing Ease: Requires a little extra care
Temperature: 60-85°F, 16-29°C
Humidity: High humidity
Lighting Needs: Does best in bright indirect sunlight coming from the South/East/West
Use a GOOD rich potting soil (a soil that retains water yet drains well),
such as an African violet mix. If you want to mix your own take: 2 parts
Soil Type: garden soil, 2 parts humus (leaf mold), 1 part coarse sand or perlite, 1
part rinsed aquarium charcoal chips and a little fine grade fir bark.
Always use a pot with a hole.
Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist at all times. Use warm water.
Feed every two weeks during the spring and summer with a water
Fertilizer:
soluble fertilizer.
 Prone to mealy bugs and spider mites. Always inspect any new plant for
Plant Pests:
pests before introducing it to your home or greenhouse.
Division and seeds in the spring. It is best to propagate seeds in a
mixture of moist peat and perlite. Cover the pot and plant with a plastic
bag secured by a rubber band to prevent the moisture from escaping.
Propagation:
Place in indirect sunlight or under a fluorescent light. Repot in its
regular mix after it has been growing for a while. After dividing, plant
in the plant's regular potting mix.
Keep warm and mist occasionally with warm water (lime free to avoid
Gardening Tips leaf staining). Place pebbles or gravel in the drainage dish to hold water
& Care: and increase the humidity, make sure the pot is sitting on the gravel and
not in the water.
One of the best plants for the removal of ammonia from the surrounding
Air Purifier:
atmosphere.
Is Genus: No

List of air-filtering soil and plants

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Jump to: navigation, search

The first list of air filtering plants was compiled by NASA as part of the NASA Clean Air
Study [1] [2] , which researched ways to clean air in space stations. As well as absorbing
carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, as all plants do, these plants also eliminate
significant amounts of benzene, formaldehyde and/or trichloroethylene. The second and
third list are from Dr. B.C. Wolverton's book[3] and focus on removal of specific
chemicals.

formaldehyde
Plant v\ Top remover of- benzene trichloroethylene xylene and
(NASA)[1]
> (NASA)[1] (NASA)[1] toluene[3]
(Wolverton)[3]
English Ivy (Hedera helix) Yes Wolverton No Yes
Spider plant
No NASA No No
(Chlorophytum comosum)
Golden pothos or Devil's
ivy
No NASA No No
(Scindapsus aures or
Epipremnum aureum)
Peace lily (Spathiphyllum
Yes Wolverton Yes No
'Mauna Loa')
Chinese evergreen
No No No No
(Aglaonema modestum)
Bamboo palm or reed
palm (Chamaedorea No NASA, Wolverton No No
sefritzii)
Snake plant or mother-in-
law's tongue
No NASA No No
(Sansevieria trifasciata
'Laurentii')
Heartleaf philodendron
(Philodendron
No NASA No No
oxycardium, syn.
Philodendron cordatum)
Selloum philodendron
(Philodendron
No NASA No No
bipinnatifidum, syn.
Philodendron selloum)
Elephant ear philodendron
(Philodendron No NASA No No
domesticum)
Red-edged dracaena
Yes NASA No Yes
(Dracaena marginata)
Cornstalk dracaena
(Dracaena fragans No NASA No No
'Massangeana')
Janet Craig dracaena
(Dracaena deremensis Yes Wolverton No No
'Janet Craig')
Warneck dracaena
(Dracaena deremensis Yes No Yes Yes
'Warneckii')
Weeping Fig (Ficus
No Wolverton No No
benjamina)[4]
Gerbera Daisy or
Barberton daisy Yes Wolverton Yes No
(Gerbera jamesonii)
Pot Mum or Florist's
Chrysanthemum
Yes NASA, Wolverton Yes No
(Chrysantheium
morifolium)
Rubber Plant (Ficus
No Wolverton No No
elastica)
Boston fern (Nephrolepis No Wolverton No No
exaltata "Bostoniensis")
Kimberly queen fern
No Wolverton No Yes
(Nephrolepis obliterata)
Dwarf date palm (Phoenix
No Wolverton No Yes
roebelenii)
Areca palm
(Chrysalidocarpus No No No Yes
lutescens)
Dendrobium orchid
No No No Yes
(Dendrobium sp.)
Dumb cane (Camilla)
No No No Yes
(Dieffenbachia)
Dumb cane (Exotica)
No No No Yes
(Dieffenbachia)
King of hearts
No No No Yes
(Homalomena wallisii)
Moth orchid (Phalenopsis
No No No Yes
sp.)

The recommendation of NASA is to use 15 to 18 good-sized houseplants in six- to eight-

inch (203 mm) diameter containers in a 1,800-square-foot (170 m2) house.[citation needed]

The healing and magical properties of nature

Aloe
Medicinal properties: Internal use: inflammation of the stomach,
gastritis and gastric ulcers; external use: cures wounds, ulcers,
burns, stings of insects
Magical Properties: Living plants guard against evil influences
and prevent household accidents

Anise
Medicinal properties: the seed promotes digestion, stimulates
appetite, helps with cramps/nausea; relieves flatulence and colic,
helps promote lactation, insomnia
Magical properties: sleep on anise seeds to ensure sleep free from
nightmares; fresh anise leaves protects the magic circle and ward
off evil
 Ash
Magical properties: The representation of Ygdrasill, the world
tree, and one of the Fairy Triad: oak, ash and thorn. Ash
represents the power which resides in water for use in sea rituals.
Carrying a piece will protect against drowning. A staff of ash hung
over a doorway will ward off malignant influences. Scatter the
leaves in the four directions to protect a house. Ash attracts
lightning so it will not protect against that.

Basil
Medicinal properties: appetizer, stomach cramps, vomiting,
constipation
Magical properties: used in love spells and purification baths

Blackberry
Medicinal properties: The root makes a remedy for diarrhea, chew
leaves for bleeding gums
Magical properties: used in money spells; vines are protective;
sacred to Brigit

Black Cohosh
Medicinal properties: the rootstock is used to stop diarrhea in
children, also used for menopause
Magical properties: used in love spells and gives courage to the
meek if carried
 Bloodroot
Medicinal properties: the root is used as an expectorant, sedative,
and relieves skin problems such as eczema
Magical properties: the root draws love and avert negativity;
place on doorways and windows for protection

Calendula or Marigold
Medicinal properties: stomach cramps and diarrhea, fever,
vomiting, salves, sores
Magical properties: Add calendula to your bath to win the respect
and admiration of your peers. String garlands of calendula around
the outside doors to stop evil from entering the house.

Catnip
Medicinal properties: safe to take for morning sickness
Magical properties: used in love spells in conjunction with rose
petals; grown near the home, it will attract good spirits and luck

Chamomile
Medicinal properties: fever, restlessness, insomnia, rashes
Magical properties: used in money spells (wash hands in
chamomile tea before gambling); used to remove curses and spells

Cinquefoil
Medicinal properties: diarrhea, dysentery, cramps (mix with balm
leaves and chamomile)
Magical properties: the five points of the leaves symbolize love,
money, health, power, and wisdom; suspended from the bed will
ensure restful sleep; carry when asking favors of officials
(especially good in court cases)
 Cowslip
Medicinal properties: Ideal for the flu treatment, bronchitis and
catarrh, with strong cough and mucus. It is very suitable in cases of
arthritis and rheumatism. It's also used as analgesic.
Magical properties: the fragrance has healing properties

Elder
Medicinal properties: It is very helpful against respiratory
diseases, cold sore throat and otitis. It also works as a diuretic,
laxative and purgative.
Magical properties: hang over doorways and windows to get out
evil; carry the berries to protect from negativity; sacred to the
Mother Goddess; grow near your home to bring prosperity;
excellent wood for making wands; bad luck to burn elder wood

Fennel
Medicinal properties: It favors the digestion, contributes to expel
the flatulence and opens the appetite. Diuretic. It is very
appropriate in case of bronchitis or cough, as well as when one has
a pain in the chest. It favors the menstruation and alleviates the
pains associated with it. External use: Eyewash, relaxant and hair
tonic.
Magical properties: Grow around the home for protection. Hung
up at windows, it will ward off evil spirits. Used in purification
sachets.

Hawthorne
Magical properties: If there is Hawthorne growing on your
property, no evil ghosts will enter. It also protects against
lightning and damage from storms. Hawthorne is sacred to fairies
and is part of the Fairy Triad: "oak, ash and thorn"
 Hazel
Magical properties: Twigs of hazel placed against the window
frames will guard against lightning and three pins of hazel wood
driven into the house will protect it from fire. Present a bride with
a batch of hazel nuts to wish her good fortune. Hazel is used to
make magical wands and for dowsing.

Hibiscus
Magical properties: Red Hibiscus flowers are used in love potions
and placed in wreaths in marriage ceremonies.

Holly
Magical properties: One of the best protection herbs, holly guards
against lightning, poison and evil spirits. Plant it around the
house. Since it is a male plant, men should carry holly for luck
(Women should carry the female plant Ivy). After midnight on a
Friday, in silence, gather nine holly leaves (the smooth kind) and
wrap these in white cloth using nine knots to tie the ends together.
Place this under your pillow and you will have prophetic dreams
that night.

Lavender
Medicinal properties: Sedative. Oil can be used migraines (dab on
temples), fainting and dizziness. Leaves can be used for nausea
and/or vomiting
Magical properties: Used in love spells. Rub lavender on your
clothing to attract love. Also protects against cruel treatment at the
hands of a spouse if worn. Place lavender under your pillow for a
good night's sleep.
 Marigold or Calendula
Medicinal properties: stomach cramps and diarrhea, fever,
vomiting, salves, sores
Magical properties: Add marigold to your bath to win the respect
and admiration of your peers. String garlands of marigold around
the outside doors to stop evil from entering the house.

Mint
Medicinal properties: Sedative to part of the body suffering from
rheumatic aches. It can also be applied in case of insect stings. An
infusion made with the leaves increases perspiration and makes
fever go down. To stop palpitations you can drink a glass of hot
water with some drops of its essence.
Magical properties: Mint is used in travel spells and the bright
green leaves can be used in money and prosperity spells. Fresh
mint laid on the altar will call good spirits.

Mistletoe
Medicinal properties: It diminishes high blood pressure and
regulates the heart beat
Magical properties: carry or wear for aid in conception;
protection against lightning, fires, and misfortune; burn mistletoe
to banish evil; placed at the head of the bed, it gives restful sleep
and beautiful dreams

Morning Glory
Magical properties: Morning Glory seeds under your pillow will
stop nightmares. Grown in the garden, blue morning glories will
bring peace and happiness.

Nettle
Magical properties: Nettle can be used to remove a curse and send
it back, by stuffing a poppet with it or carrying it in a sachet. A pot
of freshly cut nettle placed beneath a sickbed will aid in recovery.
Used in purification sachets.
 Oak
Magical properties: Ancient tree of the Druids and one of the
Fairy Triad: "oak, ash and thorn." To protect your house, tie two
twigs of oak with red thread to form an equal-armed cross and
hang it in the house. Acorns placed in the window guard against
lightning. Burning oak in a fireplace will draw off illness.
Planting an acorn in the dark of the Moon will bring you money.

Passion Flower
Magical properties: Placed in a house, it calms problems and
troubles and brings peace. Carried, it attracts friends and
popularity. Placed beneath the pillow, it aids in sleep.

Peppermint
Magical properties: Peppermint has long been used in healing and
purification spells. It raises the vibrations of the area. Placed
under the pillow, it can aid in sleep and sometimes offered glimpse
of the future in dreams.

Rose
Medicinal properties: (infusion) headaches/ dizziness, w/ honey
heart&nerve tonic, (decoction of petals) mouth sores, and uterine
cramps, (w/ wine as mouthwash) toothache, (cold compress)
headache, (trickled into ear) ear ache, (rose honey) sore throat.
Magical properties: Used in love and harmony spells. Roses
planted in your garden will attract fairies. Rose petals sprinkled
around the house will calm stress and reduce household upheavals.
 Snapdragon
Magical properties: Place a vase of fresh snapdragons on the
altar while performing protective rituals. If someone has sent you
negativity energy (hexes, curses, etc.), place some snapdragons on
the altar with a mirror behind them to send the negative energy
back to the sender.

St. John's Wort

Medicinal properties: Constitutes a good tonic for the nervous
system; a good remedy when stomach acidity appears, specially in
the treatment of gastric ulcer, diarrhea and vomiting.
Magical properties: wards off fevers and cold when worn; burn to
banish evil spirits; gather it on a Friday and wear it to cure
melancholy -- (also known as Hypericum).

Sunflower
Sunflowers growing the garden guard it against pests and grant the
best of luck to the gardener

Ficus Racemosa
• Botanical Name : Ficus Racemosa
• Family Name : Moraceae
• Common Name : Cluster Fig, Indian Fig,
Crattock, Rumbodo, Atteeka, Redwood Fig
 • Part Used : Bark, Root, Latex, Fruits
• Habitat : It is cultivated all over india and also grows wild in many forests and
hills.
• Product offered : Fruits

Uses : According to Ayurveda, roots are useful in hydrophobia whereas bark is acrid,
cooling, galactagogue and good for gynaecological disorders. Fruits are astringent to
bowels, styptic, tonic and useful in the treatment of leucorrhoea, blood disorders, burning
sensation, fatigue, urinary discharges, leprosy, menorrhagia, epistaxis and intestinal
worms. According to Unani system of medicine, leaves are astringent to bowels and good
in case of bronchitis whereas fruits are useful in treatment of dry cough, loss of voice,
diseases of kidney and spleen. Bark is useful in Asthma and piles. Latex is applied
externally on chronic infected wounds to alleviate edema, pain and to promote the
healing. The tender leaf buds are applied on the skin, in the form of paste, to improve the
complexion.

Herb for the Sun (Surya)

Influence of Milk Weed or Arka-bhasma

If Sun is well placed in your horoscope:

The influence will be toward nobility, dignity, power,
leadership and confidence. One will be well-read, pious,
strong, compassionate and also untroubled.

If Sun is ill placed in your horoscope: negative results may be

expected.
Herb for the Moon (Chandra)

Influence of Butia Frandosa or Palasa-bhasma

If Moon is well placed in your horoscope:

The influence will be toward good sensitivity, good habits,
stability and health. One will be wealthy, industrious and
respected, i.e., positive results may be expected.

If Moon is ill placed in your horoscope: negative results may

be expected.
Herb for Mars (Mangala)

Influence of Couch Plant or Khadira-bhasma

If Mars is well placed in your horoscope:

The influence will be toward positive energy, strength,
courage, passion, and aggression. One will be active, have
great energy, be learned, well-known and regal, i.e., positive
results may be expected.

If Mars is ill-placed in your horoscope: negative results may

be expected.
Herb for Mercury (Budha)

Influence of Achyranthes or Apamarga-bhasma

If Mercury is well placed in your horoscope:

The influence will be toward being rational, witty, skillful and
dexterous. One will worldly-wise, educated, happy, fortunate
and highly respected, i.e., positive results may be expected.

If Mercury is ill placed in your horoscope: negative results

may be expected.
Herb for Jupiter (Brihaspati)

Influence of Ficus Religiosa or Pippala-bhasma

If Jupiter is well placed in your horoscope:

The influence will be toward humanitarianism, caring,
spiritualism, optimism, faith and good judgment. One will be
powerful, respected, a leader of men, although susceptible to
anger, i.e., positive results may be expected.

If Jupiter is ill-placed in your horoscope: negative results may

be expected.
Herb for Venus (Shukra)

Influence of Ficus Glomerata or Audumbara-bhasma

If Venus is well placed in your horoscope:

The influence will be toward attractiveness, refinement, grace
and elegance. One will be smooth, humanitarian, long-lived
and possess many good qualities, i.e., positive results may be
expected.

If Venus is ill-placed in your horoscope: negative results may

be expected.
 Herb for Saturn (Shani)

Influence of Prosopis or Shami-bhasma

If Saturn is well placed in your horoscope:

The influence will be toward discipline, responsibility, realism,
durability and humility. One will be long-lived, charitable,
lavish, proficient and an affectionate mate, i.e., positive
results may be expected.

If Saturn is ill placed in your horoscope: negative results may

be expected.
Herb for Rahu

Influence of Cynodon Dactylon or Durva-bhasma

If Rahu is well placed in your horoscope:

The influence will be toward originality, inspiration, insight
and uniqueness. One will be exotic, wealthy and fortunate,
i.e., positive results may be expected.

If Rahu is ill placed in your horoscope: negative results may

be expected.
Herb for Ketu

Influence of Sacrificial Grass or Kusa-bhasma

If Ketu is well placed in your horoscope:

The influence will be toward spiritualism, intuition,
universality, subtleness and sensitivity. One will be wealthy
and protected from evil, i.e., positive results may be
expected.

If Ketu is ill placed in your horoscope: negative results may

be expected.

Plants Soak Up Indoor Pollution

A home that's full of green plants greets you with an unmistakably different
feeling. The air is alive and clean, crackling with positive energy. The plants
seem to be giving off not only oxygen but also good vibrations.

But plant-filled homes feet different not only because of what the plants are
giving off, but because of what they are taking in. Many house plants literally
consume the chemical pollutants that pervade modern homes and may be
responsible for health problems from sore throats to cancer. For less than the
price of one doctor visit for a sore throat, house plants can clean the air in your
home and make it safer for you to breathe.

Modern homes can be a minefield of chemical hazards. Carpets, furniture,

insulation, paint, and even fireplaces can emit hazardous gases.

Formaldehyde is released from a host of household furnishings, including

synthetic carpeting, particleboard (used to make bookcases, desks, and tables),
foam insulation, upholstery, curtains, and even so-called air fresheners. When
present at levels above 0.1 parts per million parts of air, it can cause a wide
range of symptoms from burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and throat, to
nausea, coughing, and even skin rashes. Xylene, benzene, and carbon
monoxide are among the other invisible gases that can cause a similar array of
symptoms. In a study by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), an
800-cubic-foot room (10 feet by 10 feet by 8 feet) contained pollution levels of
approximately 1,808 micrograms of formaldehyde, 112 micrograms of xylene,
and 67 micrograms of benzene.

Common house plants such as the Boston fern, English ivy, and spider plant
are inexpensive, ecologically sound, aesthetically pleasing ways to filter toxins
from your home, particularly during these winter months when you are likely to
spend most of your time closed up indoors with the windows shut. A single
Boston fern can remove 1,800 micrograms of formaldehyde from the air
(nearly the total amount found in the EPA study) in about an hour.

Some plants, of course, are especially good at filtering certain pollutants. The
areca palm, for example, is the most effective filter of xylene. Other plants,
such as Boston ferns, chrysanthemums, and dwarf date palms, are better at
removing formaldehyde.

The Foliage for Clean Air Council, a communications clearinghouse for

information on the use of foliage to improve indoor air quality, recommends a
minimum of two plants per 100 square feet of floor space in an average home
with eight- to ten-foot ceilings. Fill your home with as many plants as you can.

If you're not ready to fill your house with plants, start on a smaller scale by
selecting plants that are known to remove the most worrisome pollutants. Four
species were particularly efficient in filtering formaldehyde, benzene, xylene,
and carbon monoxide. Introducing these plants into your home can
significantly reduce the concentration of these chemicals and possibly hundreds
of others. Although the calculations of the buildup and dispersion of pollutants
in a home are complex, these plants can drastically improve the air you breathe.
The actual rates at which the plants clean the air will vary depending on the
size of the plant, the temperature, and how polluted the air is, among other
things.

BOSTON FERN

Nephrolepsis exaltata bostoniensis

Type: Hanging perennial

Main Pollutant Removed: Formaldehyde,

at a rate of 1,863 micrograms per hour.

Other Pollutants Removed: Xylene, at a

rate of 208 micrograms per hour

Recommended Placement in Home: If you've recently bought new furniture

or carpeting, place one or two Boston ferns in each of the appropriate rooms.

Cost: An eight- to ten-inch hanging plant costs $10 to $25.

Care: They are easy to grow in medium to bright light. As with most plants,
water them only when the soil feels dry.

ENGLISH IVY

Hedera helix

Type: Hanging perennial.

Main Pollutant Removed: Benzene; the

plant removed 90 percent from a sealed
chamber.

Other Pollutants Removed: Formaldehyde,

at a rate of 1,120 micrograms per hour.
Xylene, at a rate of 131 micrograms per hour.

Recommended Placement in Home: These

are especially effective in a room that has
been freshly painted or carpeted. They're also
beneficial in a room that contains plastic equipment or furnishings (computers,
printers, fax machines) or ink.

Cost: A five-inch potted plant costs from $5 to $30.

Care: These plants are easy to grow in bright light.

ARECA PALM

Chrysalidocarpus lutescens

Type: Upright perennial.

Main Pollutant Removed: Xylene, at a

rate of 654 micrograms per hour.

Other Pollutants Removed:

Formaldehyde, at a rate of 938
micrograms per hour.

Recommended Placement in Home:

Areca palms can be used effectively in
virtually any room, but are especially
useful in those that are carpeted or contain freshly varnished furniture.

Cost: A ten-inch potted Areca palm costs $20 to $50.

Care: These plants grow well in the sun. They need year-round warmth, ample
humidity, and filtered sunlight.

SPIDER PLANT

Chlorophytum comosum

Type: Trailing perennial.

Main Pollutant Removed: Carbon

monoxide; the plant removed over 96
percent of this potentially deadly gas.

Other Pollutants Removed: Xylene,

at a rate of 268 micrograms per hour.
Formaldehyde, at a rate of 560 micrograms per hour.
Recommended Placement in Home: These are useful in kitchens with gas
stoves or in rooms with fireplaces, where carbon monoxide may accumulate.

Cost: A ten-inch hanging spider plant costs between $10 and $15.

Care: They are easy to grow in bright to medium light.

JANET CRAIG/STRIPED DRACAENA

Dracaena deremensis

Type: Upright perennial.

Main Pollutants Removed: Formaldehyde,

at a rate of 1,361 micrograms per hour.
Xylene, at a rate of l54 micrograms per hour.

Recommended Placement in Home: These

are especially effective in newly carpeted or
newly furnished rooms.

Cost: An eight- to ten-inch potted Janet Craig

costs $15 to $50.

Care: This plant needs bright to medium light, and can reach heights of
fifteen feet, although it is best kept smaller.

Night-Time - Air Filter Plants

Bird's Nest
Snake Plant
Hahnii’
Sansevieria trifasciata

6 to 8 plants, waist-high, per person.

Releases oxygen during the night for conditioning indoor air while humans and
animanls are sleeping.
10 Magical Air Cleaning Plants
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Plants are not just decorative, they can also clean and purify the air in our homes, and act as anti-pollutants.
Houseplants can reduce components of indoor air pollution, even volatile organic compounds such as benzene,
formaldehyde, toluene, and xylene. Plants also reduce airborne microbes and increase humidity.

Some indoor plants are more effective than others, so this article is dedicated to these magical house-cleaning air
purifiers for your home and/or work place. Also included are illustrations of each of the miracle plants, as well as
basic plant care.

Researchers from NASA and other organizations recommend at least 15-18 good-sized plants for a house or
apartment of 1800 square feet or 167 square meters.

• 1. Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily)

• 2. Chlorophytum comosum (Spider Plant)
• 3. Epipremnum aureum (Devil's Ivy)
• 4. Syngonium podophyllum (Arrowhead Plant)
• 5. Hedera helix (English Ivy)
• 6. Philodendron (Heartleaf or Elephant Ear Philodendron)
• 7. Gerbera Jamesonii (Gerbera Daisy)
• 8. Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig)
• 9. Dracaena marginata (Red-edged dracaena)
• 10. Chrysanthemum (Pot Mum)

1. Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily)

Spathiphyllum, also called Peace Lily, acts as a general air cleanser of many environmental pollutants, and will
even filter contaminants such as benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene. It cleans best at one plant per
10m2.

Plant care: Easy. The plant will even survive being neglected at times. No direct sunlight to avoid burns. It can
also handle a shadier spot. Watering approximately once per week, only when the soil is dry. Too much water, too
much heating and too much light can all harm the Peace Lily.
2. Chlorophytum comosum (Spider Plant)

Spider plant is a popular and commonly used house plant. It grows from a central rosette and produces new
shoots, branched stolons with small white flowers, as well as baby plantlets.

Plant care: Very easy, thrives under nearly any conditions. The plant will even survive being neglected at times.

3. Epipremnum aureum (Devil's Ivy)

Epipremnum aureum, also called Devils Ivy, or Golden Pathos, is an excellent air cleansing plant. It is however
toxic when consumed, for example by pets, so care should be taken in order to avoid this. Its decorative marbled
leaves and easy maintenance make it very popular amongst indoor plants.

Plant care: Golden Pathos is a hardy plant which requires very little care. Should be watered only when the soil
feels dry. No direct sunlight. It can stand bright light, but the best results are achieved with a medium indirect light.

4. Syngonium podophyllum (Arrowhead plant)

Syngonium podophyllum , also called Arrowhead plant, or American evergreen, is the most commonly cultivated
species of the Syngonium genus. The plant, when eaten, is poisonous, so don't eat it..

Plant care: No direct sunlight, allow to dry in between waterings. Daily misting during the dry winter months, or
maintain higher humidity levels in other ways.

5. Hedera helix (English Ivy)

This robust plant is the ideal companion for pet owners, as it efficiently filters formaldehyde aerosols and fecal
particles from the air. There are many different species of the English Ivy, differing by color, shape, and size. The
plant is also poisonous.

Plant care: Partial shade to bright light, but no direct sunlight. Robust plant which grows so well and easily that is
considered a weed in some countries.

6. Philodendrons

The two most efficient kinds of philadendron are the Heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron scandens `oxycardium')
and the Elephant Ear Philodendron (Philodendron domesticum). Philadendrons are excellent at removing
formaldehyde, especially so at higher concentrations. It should also be noted that philadendrons are poisonous.

Plant care: Philodendrons prefer a partial shade and a well drained soil.
7. Gerbera Jamesonii (Gerbera Daisy)

The Gerbera is a well known decorative plant or cut flower, but its air filtering properties are less known. It is most
suitable for removing benzene (which is a well known carcinogen) and trichloroethylene from the air.

Plant care: It prefers bright light and a well drained soil. Gerbera blooms repeatedly, from mid-spring until fall.

8. Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig)

In its natural habitat the small fruit of the Weeping Fig is the food of choice for many birds. In any indoor scenario,
the Ficus benjamina will effectively filter indoor air toxins.

Plant care: The ficus can handle a partial shade, but also really likes bright sunlight. The soil should be well
drained. Moderate watering. The plant can be sensitive to changing conditions, so it doesn't much like being
moved.
9. Dracaena marginata (Red-edged dracaena)

The Dracaena marginata removes not only benzene and formaldehyde from the air, but also xylene and toluene
Other air filtering Dracaenas include Warneck dracaena (Dracaena deremensis 'Warneckii'), Janet Craig dracaena
(Dracaena deremensis 'Janet Craig'), Cornstalk dracaena (Dracaena fragans 'Massangeana')

Plant care: It really likes bright light, but under no circumstances direct sunlight. Better a little too little light than a
little too much. It is similar with water. Too much water can make its root decay. It will tolerate irregular watering
rhythms and dry soil much better than too much water.

10. Chrysanthemum (Pot Mum)

Well known as a decorative flower, the Chrysanthemum is an amazing plant, which has not only medicinal
purposes but is also very good at filtering a variety of polluting compounds from the air.

Plant care: Not as easy as most of the other mentioned air purifiers. It likes a bright, but indirect sunlight. Watering
with warm (not too cold) water. Allow the soil to dry in between waterings. Fertilizing is needed before the blooming
period. Faded blooms should be removed to prolong flowering. Good air circulation is important.

Other air cleaning plants include Christmas cactus, Sansevieria Laurentii (Mother-in-Law's Tongue), Philodendron
selloum (selloum philodendron), Aglaonema modestum (Chinese evergreen), Chamaedorea sefritzii (bamboo or
reed palm), Sansevieria trifasciata (snake plant), Saintpaulia (African Violets) and Aloe barbabensis (Aloe Vera).

----------------------------
Durable and decorative as they are, spider plants tend to be taken for granted. According
to a team of Penn State scientists, though, the plants may be performing a vital service:
removing ozone from indoor air. That may also be true of snake plants and golden
pothos.

Ozone is a paradoxical gas. In the upper atmosphere, it helps shield the planet from
harmful ultraviolet radiation; thinning ozone layers over the poles have been a major
environmental concern. At ground level, ozone is a bad actor, a major component of
smog. It's also a worrisome indoor pollutant in offices and homes, with copy machines,
laser printers, ultraviolet lighting and some electrostatic air purification systems as known
or suspected sources. Human health consequences include pulmonary edema, lesions on
lung tissue and other respiratory disorders.

--------------------------------
Toxic Air Filtering - Work Area Plants
Pothos - Money Plant - Epipremnum aureum

3 plants per person, 18 inches high

Absorbs toxic vapors.

Works to remove toxic volatile organic chemicals, (VOC's) such as paint fumes,
solvents and gas fuels. Many toxins are kept secret from flame retardants in
furniture to household cleaners - nearly 17,000 chemicals are secret , according to
the Environmental Protection Agency, as 700 new "secret chemicals" are added to
products every year in the United States.

The Pothos plant is a moisture loving plant, that thrives using hydroponics and
handles shade conditions well.

Here are the three indoor plants, and the numbers required, to help provide a
healthy indoor environment:

Daytime - Active Area Plants

Areca Palm - Golden Palm - Chrysalidocarpus lutescens

4 plants, shoulder-high, per person

Breaths in CO2 and breaths out oxygen during the day.
In excessively dirty air conditions such as the city of Mumbi, the leaves are wiped
once per day with a moist soft cloth, and once per week in cities with cleaner air.
Areca Palm prefers to have it' soil slightly dry between watering's and like the full
sun.

Move the Areca Palm plants outdoors every three to four months to rejuvenate
healthy growth.

Night Time - Sleep Area Plants

Bird's Nest - Snake Plant - Sansevieria trifasciata

6 to 8 plants, waist-high, per person.

Releases oxygen during the night, conditioning indoor air while humans and animals
sleep.

The Birds Nest plant prefers intermittent dry conditions, and full sun, but it can
survive in the shade.

-------------------------------------------------------------

How to Make Instant Compost Tea

1. Fill - Using a clean bucket or barrel with water,* combine measured soil
amendments into the BioExtractor Bag. Roll bag top three times to secure contents,
and then fasten the buckle closed.

2. Extract - Knead amendments by hand in water for 2-5 minutes.

3. Feed - Apply immediately as a foliar spray and/or root drench.

* If water contains chlorine or chloramines, neutralize with humic acid prior to use.

Special thanks to Dr. Elaine Ingham and Biologic Systems, Inc. for helping to
develop and test these compost tea recipes. Learn more about soil biology and the
benefits of biologic soil testing, visit: Soil Food Web Approach

TOP plants - Most effective in removing air pollutants:

1. Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema modestum)

2. Peace lily (Spathiphyllum 'Mauna Loa')
3. Janet Craig dracaena (Dracaena deremensis 'Janet Craig')
4. Warneck dracaena (Dracaena deremensis 'Warneckii')
5. Bamboo palm/Reed palm (Chamaedorea sefritzii)
6. Pot Mum/Florist's Chrysanthemum (Chrysantheium morifolium)
7. Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
8. Cornstalk dracaena (Dracaena fragans 'Massangeana')
9. Red-edged dracaena (Dracaena marginata)
10. Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)
11. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
12. Gerbera Daisy/Barberton daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)
13. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
14. Selloum philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum, syn. Philodendron selloum)
15. Elephant ear philodendron (Philodendron domesticum)
16. Heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron oxycardium, syn. Philodendron cordatum)
17. Snake plant/Mother-in-law's tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata 'Laurentii')
18. Golden pothos/Devil's ivy (Scindapsus aures/Epipremnum aureum)