9 Mood-Boosting Houseplants That Will Make You—and Your Home

Air purifying house plants in home concept. Spathiphyllum are commonly known as spath or peace lilies growing in pot — Photo:
Helin Loik-Tomson / Getty Images

It’s no secret that nature is good for the soul, but you don’t even have to set foot outside to experience the mood-boosting effects of plants. Indoor plants are beneficial to mental health and our well-being, not to mention a great way to enhance the overall look and feel of your home. Even in low-light conditions with limited space, you can incorporate houseplants into your home decor and reap the benefits of bringing nature’s beauty indoors. Ahead, we rounded up our favorite indoor plants that can boost your mood.

Kayla Gajdascz, owner and co-founder of Mental Houseplants

01 of 09

Snake Plant

The snake plant (Sansevieria) is a beautiful plant that thrives in low-light conditions. "Its sword-like leaves add a modern touch to any decor, promoting a sense of tranquility and minimalist beauty," says Kayla Gajdascz, owner and co-founder of Mental Houseplants. As a bonus, snake plants are among the easiest to care for, offering a low-stress option for beginners or people with busy lifestyles.

Size: 1 to 3 feet
Growing Conditions: Indirect and warm temperatures, but can withstand low light and cool environment

02 of 09

Peace Lily

The peace lily (Spathiphyllum), known for its bright green leaves and white blooms, is a beauty to behold. "The flowers of the peace lily have been linked to reduced stress levels and improved mood due to their natural calming effect," says Gajdascz.

Size: 1 to 3 feet
Growing Conditions: Low to medium indirect light, high humidity, filtered water free of chlorine

03 of 09

Aloe Vera

Chances are you are familiar with the medicinal properties of aloe vera—it’s an age-old salve for burns and skin irritation. It also has some air-purifying qualities, though not enough to make a significant difference in your home if you only have one plant. Still, it's a beautiful plant to have at home. "Having aloe vera in your home can contribute to a sense of health and well-being while boosting mood by improving air quality,” Gajdascz says. Best of all, you can break off a piece any time you find yourself nursing a sunburn.

Size: 6 inches to 2 feet
Growing Conditions: Bright, indirect sunlight, well-drained soil

04 of 09

Spider Plant

The spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is characterized by its, "long, arching leaves and small plantlets that dangle from the mother plant like spiders on a web, adding a playful and dynamic element to any indoor space," says Gajdascz. These plants grow quickly and are remarkably easy to propagate, making it a great choice for beginners.

Size: 6 to 12 inches
Growing Conditions: Bright, indirect light, but can adapt to lower light, moderate to high humidity, well-draining soil

05 of 09

Rubber Plant

An excellent addition to indoor home decor, the rubber plant (Ficus elastica) has beautiful large, glossy leaves. "The presence of plants like the Ficus elastica in indoor spaces has been linked to reduced stress levels, improved mood, and increased feelings of happiness and relaxation," says Gajdascz. The rubber plant is relatively easy to grow so long as you water it regularly.

Size: 6 to 10 feet (fully matured)
Growing Conditions: Bright, indirect light, high humidity levels, consistent watering schedule

06 of 09

Pothos

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular indoor plant, beloved for its long vines and heart-shaped leaves. "Its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions and its vigorous growth can provide instant gratification and a sense of accomplishment to plant owners, enhancing mood and promoting a connection with nature," says Gajdascz. The plant is also known for its ease of care.

Size: 20 to 40 feet in length (fully matured)
Growing Conditions: Low to bright indirect light, high humidity, soil should dry out between waterings

07 of 09

Monstera Deliciosa

The Monstera deliciosa (also known as a Swiss cheese plant) brings just a touch of tropical flair indoors courtesy of its recognizable split leaves. Monstera grows quickly, which can be incredibly rewarding, especially for those new to indoor plants. "Watching new leaves unfurl, complete with their unique splits and holes, offers a moment of beauty and mindfulness, boosting mood and reducing stress," Gajdascz says.

Size: 10 to 15 feet (fully matured)
Growing Conditions: Bright to medium indirect light, high humidity, well-draining soil

08 of 09

Money Tree

The money tree (Pachira aquatica) is a plant that's said to attract good fortune and prosperity, but it also brings positive energy and financial luck, according to the principles of Feng Shui. "This belief alone can uplift one's mood, aside from its natural beauty and the greenery it adds to indoor spaces," says Gajdascz. "Its braided trunk and lush, green leaves can also contribute to reducing stress and increasing a sense of well-being and calm."

Size: 6 to 8 feet
Growing Conditions: Bright, indirect light, high humidity, well-draining soil

09 of 09

ZZ Plant

If you are concerned about low light conditions, the ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a great choice because it can thrive without a lot of light. “The ZZ plant is loved for its striking, glossy leaves that can brighten up any indoor space, contributing to a more positive and serene environment,” says Gajdascz. The plant requires minimal care, making it perfect for budding indoor houseplant gardeners.

Size: 2 to 4 feet
Growing Conditions: Low to bright indirect light, drought tolerant, soil should dry out between waterings

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Martha Stewart is committed to using high-quality, reputable sources—including peer-reviewed studies—to support the facts in our articles. Read about our editorial policies and standards to learn more about how we fact check our content for accuracy.