The snake plant, also known as Sansevieria or mother-in-law's tongue, is a popular houseplant characterized by its robust properties and easy-care nature.
Especially in the bedroom, the snake plant can have a remarkable effect on air quality and the sleeping environment as an air-purifying plant. In this blog post, we explore how the snake plant functions as a CAM plant (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) and the benefits it offers specifically at night.
Experience the AIRY system – plants that can do more: purify the air, sleep better, live healthier. Discover now!
What is a CAM plant?
CAM plants have developed a special form of photosynthesis that allows them to survive under extreme conditions. Normally, plants open their stomata (small pores on the leaf surface) during the day to take in CO2 for photosynthesis. However, this leads to significant water loss, especially in dry environments. CAM plants like the snake plant therefore open their stomata at night to absorb CO2 and store it in the form of organic acids. During the day, they use this stored CO2 for photosynthesis while keeping the stomata closed to conserve water.
The 3 benefits of the snake plant in the bedroom
Improved air quality
One of the biggest advantages of snake plants is their ability to purify the air. NASA studies have shown that snake plants are particularly good at filtering pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, and xylene from the air. These substances are commonly found in furniture, paints, and household cleaners and can significantly impair indoor air quality.
Although the ability to absorb pollutants through the leaves is generally very slow, if the root system is ventilated, the efficiency of air-purifying plants increases many times over. More information can be found here.
CO2 reduction
Since the snake plant opens its stomata at night, it can also absorb CO2 during this time. This is especially beneficial in the bedroom, as CO2 can accumulate there overnight when the windows are closed and there is insufficient ventilation. By reducing CO2, the snake plant can contribute to a more restful sleep.
Better CO2-oxygen ratio
Although the oxygen production of plants mainly takes place during the day, the snake plant can indirectly help improve air quality through its nighttime CO2 absorption. A better CO2-O2 ratio in the room can positively influence sleep quality.
Did you know that the snake plant in the AIRY system breaks down air pollutants particularly effectively? Learn more about AIRY with snake plant here.
Easy care and stylish
In addition to its air-purifying properties, the snake plant is also extremely easy to care for. It needs only a little water, as it stores it like a succulent. It also copes with little light, which makes the bedroom a suitable location where there is often less direct sunlight. It does not need fertilizer. Watering can be done at generous intervals with dry phases in between. When an AIRY pot is used, the risk of waterlogging is also low. Pests rarely occur. The robust, upright-growing leaves also give the room a modern and stylish look.
Here you will find our care tips and notes for the snake plant.
The snake plant simply belongs in every bedroom
The snake plant is not only an aesthetically pleasing houseplant but also an effective natural air purifier that can improve the air quality in the bedroom. Due to its special property as a CAM plant, it also absorbs CO2 at night, contributing to a better sleeping environment. With minimal care effort, the snake plant offers an easy way to promote health and well-being in your own home.
You want to use the snake plant directly in your bedroom – without care stress? Buy AIRY with snake plant now!
The author: Peer-Arne Böttcher
Peer is the founder of AIRY and passionate about the topic of healthy indoor air. For many years, he has been intensively engaged with the scientific foundations and technical possibilities of how our breathing air can be sustainably improved – completely without chemicals, filters, or electricity.
