Are you looking to turn your bedroom into a peaceful retreat? These succulents beautify your space and actively contribute to better air quality, especially at night when they release oxygen.
Do Succulents Release Oxygen at Night?
Yes, they do! Have you ever wondered if your beloved succulents can help you breathe more easily at night? Well, the answer is yes! Some succulents do release oxygen at night. This fascinating ability is thanks to a unique type of photosynthesis known as CAM, or Crassulacean Acid Metabolism.
CAM is a unique process that helps plants survive in dry conditions. During the day, CAM plants close their stomata (tiny openings on leaves) to prevent water loss. They store carbon dioxide in the form of organic acids. When it’s cooler and more humid, the stomata open. The stored acids release carbon dioxide, which the plant uses for photosynthesis, producing oxygen in the process.
Here are ten amazing succulents that can help you breathe easier and sleep more soundly.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Snake plant, also known as Mother-in-Law's Tongue, this hardy plant features stiff, upright leaves that can be variegated with patterns ranging from vertical stripes to mottled designs.
Recognized by NASA for its air-purifying abilities, it converts CO2 into oxygen at night while efficiently filtering toxins such as formaldehyde, xylene, and benzene from the air.
Thrives in low to bright indirect light, tolerates neglect and dry conditions well. Soak and dry, allowing the potting soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is celebrated for its medicinal gel, used to treat burns and skin irritations, and its succulent rosettes of fleshy, serrated leaves.
It releases oxygen at night and takes in carbon dioxide, formaldehyde, and benzene. It thrives as a natural air purifier and a healing plant.
Prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can adapt to lower light conditions. Water deeply but infrequently, ensuring the soil drains well to prevent root rot.
Christmas Cactus
This succulent blooms profusely with tubular pink, red, and orange flowers. Its flat, segmented stems resemble leaves and store water.
Known for its ability to bloom indoors during the holiday season, it releases oxygen at night and adds color to your living space.
Requires bright indirect light, especially during blooming season. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, and maintain moderate humidity levels to promote flowering.
Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
The Jade plant, called the Money Plant or Lucky Plant, is famous for its attractive, thick, oval-shaped leaves and woody stems resembling miniature trees.
Symbolizes prosperity and luck in many cultures. It releases oxygen at night and purifies the air by removing toxins like benzene and formaldehyde.
Thrives in bright light, including some direct sunlight. Allow the cactus potting soil to dry out between waterings, as overwatering can lead to succulent root rot.
String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
A trailing succulent with slender, cascading stems adorned with round, bead-like leaves that resemble pearls.
It releases oxygen at night and adds a unique, decorative touch to hanging baskets or elevated shelves.
You may wonder: how to care for a String of pearls
Cotyledon Pendens
succulent with thick, fleshy, grey-green leaves that can blush with red tips under bright light. It produces tubular orange-red flowers.
This trailing beauty releases oxygen at night and can add a vibrant touch to hanging baskets or elevated planters, enhancing the aesthetic of your bedroom.
Water when the top inch of soil is dry, ensuring the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging. Prune back as needed to encourage fuller growth.
Sedum Morganianum
Commonly known as Burro’s Tail or Donkey’s Tail, this succulent features long, trailing stems covered in plump, blue-green leaves. It can produce small, pinkish flowers at the ends of its stems.
Ideal for hanging baskets, this plant releases oxygen at night, contributing to improved air quality while providing a lush, cascading look.
You may wonder: How to care for Sedum Morganianum
Panda Plants (kalanchoe tomentosa)
Known for its fuzzy, velvety leaves edged with dark brown or black spots, the Panda Plant is a compact succulent that adds texture to your plant collection.
Releases oxygen at night and its unique, fuzzy appearance can bring a touch of whimsy to any room.
Panda Plants thrive in bright, indirect light but can handle lower light conditions. Water sparingly, ensuring the succulent soil dries out between watering sessions. Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent rot.
Bear's Paw (Cotyledon Tomentosa)
Bear’s Paw is a charming succulent with thick, fuzzy leaves that resemble a bear’s paw, complete with claw-like tips. It may produce bright orange or yellow bell-shaped flowers.
Releases oxygen at night and its unique, furry leaves add a playful and tactile element to your indoor garden.
You may wonder: how to care for Bear's Paw succulent
ZZ plant
The ZZ Plant is known for its glossy, dark green leaves that grow in a feather-like pattern from thick rhizomes beneath the soil.
Low-maintenance and highly efficient at releasing oxygen at night. It's also known for its ability to thrive in low-light conditions.
Prefers low to moderate light, including artificial light. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Benefits of Growing Nighttime Oxygen-Releasing Succulents
Adding nighttime oxygen-releasing succulents to your home, especially in your bedroom, offers many advantages. Here’s why these plants are not just decorative, but also highly beneficial:
1. Improved Air Quality
These succulents release oxygen even at night, leading to better air quality and a fresher environment, especially in closed spaces.
2. Better Sleep Quality
Relaxing Environment: Increased oxygen levels and purified air can contribute to a more restful and serene atmosphere, improving sleep quality.
3. Low Maintenance
Easy Care: Most succulents require minimal care, making them perfect for busy individuals or those new to plant care. They typically need infrequent watering and can thrive in various light conditions.
4. Health Benefits
Reduced Stress: Studies have demonstrated that having plants nearby can lower stress levels and enhance overall well-being. Greenery is known to induce a calming effect and uplift mood.
Conclusion
Incorporating these nighttime oxygen-releasing succulents into your living space enhances your home’s aesthetic and promotes a healthier, more relaxing environment conducive to better sleep and overall well-being.
