Keeping pot plants in your house is not only decorative. Many plants can purify the air, which is beneficial for the brain and the sense of wellbeing.

Dr Westerlund himself

One popular, purifying plant in Sweden is called Doktor Westerlunds hälsoblomma – Doctor Westerlund’s health plant. The common name is Rosengeranium, Pelargonium graveolens. It purifies the air, and some are strongly rose-scented, although the leaf shape and scent vary. Rosengeranium has been one of the most popular plants in Swedish homes since the 18th century, but you rarely find one at the plant shop. It was a typical family plant, which was shared. Or stolen! Tradition says that cuttings shall be stolen to thrive. So, if you come across one – pinch a cutting. 

This is not just wishful thinking as has been shown in, a recent study in the Netherlands. Putting plants in a classroom does indeed improve student performance. The brain works better when there is more oxygen in the air, and people become more creative and productive. The plants also improve the social climate, bringing a sense of calm, thereby reducing stress and aggression. 

Keeping indoor plants has been in fashion for a long time in Europe. In the 17th century, the upper class in many European countries wanted exotic plants, like lemon or orange trees. Later on, more everyday plants became fashionable.

The earliest portrait of Charles Darwin, 1816, holding a potted houseplant.