Which Indoor Plants Are Most Effective for Improving Air Quality?

Indoor air quality has become an important focus in Australian workplaces. Modern buildings are often designed to be energy efficient and tightly sealed, which can limit natural airflow. While this improves temperature control, it can also allow airborne pollutants to build up indoors.

Research conducted by Ambius in partnership with the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) shows that indoor plants can significantly reduce certain airborne contaminants commonly found inside buildings. When carefully selected and professionally maintained, specific plant species actively contribute to fresher, healthier indoor environments.

Here’s a closer look at the plant varieties that perform best and how they support improved air quality indoors.

Understanding Indoor Air Pollutants

Workplaces can contain a range of airborne pollutants, including:

• • Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from carpets, furniture, paints and adhesives
• • Emissions from office equipment such as printers
• • Petrol-related pollutants entering from surrounding traffic or car parks
• • Outdoor pollution drawn in through ventilation systems

Ambius and UTS research demonstrated that indoor plants are capable of absorbing and breaking down many of these contaminants. Plants draw airborne pollutants through their leaves, where they are transferred to the root zone. Micro-organisms in the growing medium then convert harmful compounds into less harmful substances, while the plant releases oxygen back into the space.

This natural process supports improved indoor air quality when plants are healthy and properly cared for.

High-Performing Indoor Plant Species

Ambius selects plant varieties based on their resilience in indoor conditions and their ability to assist with air purification. Below are some of the most effective species used in professionally managed indoor environments.

Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily)

Spathiphyllum is recognised for its ability to absorb common VOCs found in indoor spaces. It performs well in controlled environments and is valued for both its pollutant-reducing capability and its elegant appearance.

With broad green leaves and distinctive white blooms, it contributes to both air quality and visual appeal in workplaces.

Dracaena Varieties

Dracaena species are highly adaptable and have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing airborne pollutants associated with synthetic materials and cleaning agents.

Their structured, upright growth makes them suitable for a range of indoor layouts while contributing to cleaner indoor air.

Epipremnum Aureum (Devil’s Ivy)

Epipremnum aureum is a hardy species known for its strong air-purifying properties. It performs consistently in indoor environments and supports the reduction of airborne toxins.

This species is often incorporated into larger plant displays and vertical green installations to increase overall leaf surface area for enhanced air filtration.

Ficus Species

Selected Ficus varieties are used in larger interior spaces where substantial foliage mass can support improved air circulation and filtration.

Their broad leaves increase the plant’s capacity to interact with indoor air, assisting with pollutant absorption.

What the Research Shows

In controlled studies conducted by Ambius and UTS, indoor plants were shown to reduce concentrations of petrol-related VOCs in enclosed environments. Some tests recorded reductions of up to 75% within 24 hours under controlled conditions.

These results highlight the biological capability of plants to respond to airborne pollutants. Importantly, the research found that groups of plants working together in a managed setting deliver stronger outcomes than isolated plants.

This reinforces the importance of professional plant management to maintain plant health and performance.

The Role of Green Walls

Vertical plant systems, often referred to as green walls, can significantly increase the total leaf surface area within a space. By positioning plants vertically, more foliage is exposed to circulating air, enhancing the overall air filtration effect.

Ambius proprietary green wall systems are designed specifically for indoor environments and are supported by ongoing horticultural care to ensure consistent performance.

Why Plant Health Matters

Plants only contribute effectively to indoor air quality when they are healthy and actively growing. Proper watering, nutrient balance and root-zone care are essential to maintaining strong microbial activity — a key component in breaking down pollutants.

Ambius horticultural specialists provide scheduled maintenance, including the use of the Ambius Grow Formula to support root health and sustained plant vitality. This ensures that plants continue to function efficiently as natural air filters.

Without consistent care, plants can decline, reducing both their aesthetic value and their air-purifying capacity.

Sustainability Considerations

Ambius integrates environmentally responsible practices into its indoor plant programs. These include:

• • Recyclable grow pots
• • ECO Pebbles to support efficient water use
• • Participation in Rainforest Rescue initiatives
• • Responsible sourcing practices

These measures contribute to improved indoor environments while aligning with broader sustainability goals.

Supporting Healthier Indoor Environments

Improved indoor air quality supports overall wellbeing within workplaces. Cleaner air can help reduce discomfort associated with poor ventilation and contribute to a more pleasant and productive atmosphere.

By combining research-backed plant selection with expert horticultural care, indoor plants become an active component of healthier building environments rather than purely decorative elements.