It is a rare occurrence to see houseplants in most Nigerian homes, but it should not be that way if many know the purpose they serve. Not only can these plants serve as functional decorations, they also brighten a space and purify the air.
Here are 6 beautiful houseplants that are easy to take care of, effective in improving oxygen and clearing out toxins for cleaner breathing air.
Aloe Vera Plant
The gel of the aloe plant has a lot of healing properties. It soothes cuts and skin burns and helps monitor the quality of air in your home. It is interesting to know that having this plant in your home can help rid it of air pollutants found in chemical cleaning products.
Fun fact: When the number of harmful chemicals in the air becomes too much, the plants’ leaves will show brown spots. You can put this plant in a spot where the sunlight is sure to caress it.
Calla Lily Plant
With alluring white, yellow or pink petals, the Calla Lily plant is downright gorgeous. Native to Nigeria and other African countries, this beautiful plant can be grown outdoors or indoors in a decorative pot by a sunny window. Calla lilies need at least six hours a day of very bright indirect light. Direct sun often burns the leaves of indoor houseplants.
Dumb Cane Plant
The Dieffenbachia plant also known as the Dumb Cane is a green and yellow/white plant that is very common as indoor plant seen in homes, gardens, parks, and offices. It is used in small spaces to eliminate toxins and clear the air, but a word of caution: keep this plant away from children as they are toxic when ingested causing temporary speechlessness due to extensive saliva production and swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, and throat. These effects, however, wear off in a matter of days.
Mother-in-law’s Tongue
Native to Nigeria, Sansevieria plant also known as Mother-in-Law’s tongue or snake plant is a really remarkable houseplant mostly because of how easy it is to care for it. They don’t need much air or water to survive, so you can place them in any corner of your home. This plant absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen during the night, so adding one to your bedroom will ensure a clearer air boost.
Fun fact: It is not high-maintenance and can go for about a month without water. The plant leaves are usually tall, stiff and vertical, but come in different shapes and sizes.
Orchids
It is hard to believe that these captivating plants can be grown in Nigeria. Good news is, they can be grown and these beauties will not only add a bit of nature to your home but a touch of class too.
Orchids are very popular indoor potted plants but this exotic flower requires care to keep it blooming.
Spider Plant
Being one of the most common houseplants, Spider plants with their long slender green and white leaves, are decorative, easy to grow and is on NASA list as one of the best air-purifying plants.
Fun fact: Spider Plants are native to Africa.
Try it and you may just get addicted to the charm of nature.
