indoor plants reduce toxins

A study by University of Georgia researchers states "plants have the potential to significantly improve the quality of indoor air with respect to harmful volatile organic compounds such as benzene, toluene, octane, trichloroethylene (TCE), and α-pinene". It suggests implementation and certification of "phytoremediation" programs for indoor applications from homes and offices to large scale environs.

The study indicates five top choices for aiding air quality:




Hemigraphis alternata, red ivy






Hedera helix, English ivy











Hoya carnosa, porcelin flower






Asparagus densiflorous, asparagus fern






Tradescantia pallida, purple heart


Quantification of Carbon Assimilation in Interiorscape Plants In Simulated and In Situ Environments
Bodie V. Pennisi1, Associate Professor and Marc van Iersel2, Professor
1 University of Georgia, Department of Horticulture, Griffin, GA 30233
2 University of Georgia, Department of Horticulture, Athens, GA 30602-7273
http://greenplantsforgreenbuildings.org/attachments/wysiwyg/1/projectcarbon.pdf