Houseplants for hot summer days do more than decorate your space; they help cool it down naturally. Through the process of evapotranspiration, plants release moisture into the air, lowering indoor temperature and improving airflow.
This means you can enjoy fresher air while reducing the need for cooling appliances. Many of these plants also act as natural air purifiers, removing toxins and balancing humidity levels.
With just a little care, they will thrive indoors and give your home a cooler, greener feel. Here are 10 of the best houseplants to keep your living space refreshing during summer.
#1 Ribbon Plant
Ribbon Plant, often called Spider Plant, is a reliable choice for cooling indoor spaces. Its arching green and white striped leaves absorb heat and help balance air temperature. Place it in bright, indirect light for best growth.
Water when the top soil feels dry, and mist occasionally to keep humidity up. This plant also produces small “baby” offshoots that you can replant. It’s an easy way to add freshness to your home while multiplying plants for free.
#2 Peace Lily
Peace Lily is both decorative and functional, with glossy leaves and elegant white blooms. It absorbs excess moisture from the air, which helps normalize indoor humidity.
Keep it in medium light and water weekly to keep the soil slightly moist. Wipe the leaves to keep them clean and shiny. It grows well in corners where other plants may struggle.
Beyond cooling benefits, it’s a symbol of peace and harmony in any home.
#3 Weeping Fig
Weeping Fig, also known as Ficus benjamina, keeps indoor air moist while filtering toxins like formaldehyde and benzene. Its dense foliage creates a cooling effect in rooms. Place it near a bright window, but protect it from direct sun.
Water moderately and allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Prune lightly to maintain its graceful shape. Its leafy canopy makes it an attractive natural air freshener.
#4 Sansevieria Trifasciata
Sansevieria Trifasciata, or Snake Plant, is nearly indestructible and thrives in any corner. It improves air quality by converting carbon dioxide into oxygen even at night.
Give it low to medium light and water sparingly, as it dislikes soggy soil. Its tall, upright leaves regulate temperature and humidity.
This plant suits both beginners and busy homeowners. With minimal care, it keeps your home cooler and healthier year-round.
#5 Aglaonema
Aglaonema is a colorful houseplant that cools and purifies indoor air at the same time. Its patterned leaves brighten up any room while removing harmful toxins. Place it in medium light and water regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist.
Mist the leaves occasionally if your home feels dry. It adapts well to different indoor conditions. This plant adds both style and a refreshing touch to your living space.
#6 Boston Fern
Boston Fern thrives in humid conditions, making it a natural cooling plant. Its feathery fronds release moisture into the air, reducing heat and filtering toxins.
Keep it in indirect light and water frequently to maintain damp soil. Mist daily or place a tray of water nearby to boost humidity. It looks beautiful in hanging baskets or decorative pots. This fern creates a soft, cooling presence in any room.
#7 Areca Palm
Areca Palm is one of the most effective air-purifying plants. It reduces indoor pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene while adding moisture to the air. Place it in bright, indirect sunlight and water regularly during summer.
Wipe the leaves to keep them free from dust. With its feathery fronds, it creates a tropical vibe indoors. This palm makes your space cooler while adding lush greenery.
#8 Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is famous for its soothing gel, but it also helps regulate indoor temperature. Its thick, fleshy leaves store water and slowly release moisture into the air. Place it on a sunny windowsill for healthy growth. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Break off a leaf whenever you need fresh gel for burns or skincare. Aloe is both practical and refreshing for summer homes.
#9 Rubber Tree
Rubber Tree is a sturdy plant that balances indoor air naturally. Its broad leaves release moisture, cooling the surrounding environment. Keep it in bright, indirect light and water when the soil feels dry.
Wipe the leaves often so they can breathe and look glossy. As the plant grows larger, its cooling effect increases. It’s a bold, stylish choice that doubles as an indoor air conditioner.
#10 Pothos
Pothos is a versatile vine that grows happily in almost any condition. It regulates temperature while removing toxins like xylene and benzene from indoor air. Place it in indirect light and water when the soil dries out.
Train the vines to climb or let them trail from a hanging pot. Its heart-shaped leaves bring a touch of softness to your space. With little effort, Pothos will thrive all summer long and beyond.