Marie Flanigan shares her favorite plants to use in all her projects – she hails these varieties for their positive effects and our gardening expert agrees

There are a few decorating tactics we all turn to make our homes feel inviting and inspiring, but one method rises above the rest due to its easy yet impactful qualities.

Decorating with plants works in practically every interior design style and is an easy way of bringing a refreshing dose of greenery and vitality inside. Designer Marie Flanigan uses plants and indoor trees in all her projects, they're common features that appear consistently in her designs so we trust her to know what she's talking about when it comes to choosing the best plant varieties to bring indoors.

She recently took to Instagram to share her favorite plants that provide long-term health benefits, and of course tick the aesthetic box too. We delved deeper into Marie's selection and asked our gardening expert Tenielle Jordison for her thoughts on Marie's choices too.

Marie begins, 'The three top plants that can help purify your air and create a healthy home environment are the snake plant, the spider plant, and the peace lily.'

The best indoor plants are those that make a home better, both visually and practically. Marie continues, 'I've been using plants and greenery in my interiors for years because they can bring so much beauty but plants also have so many health benefits to bring into your space. They can absorb carbon dioxide, release oxygen, and actually remove toxins from the air.'

1. The snake plant

Marie says one of her go-to plants is the snake plant (also known as Dracaena trifasciata). One of the best plants for Feng Shui, this variety is often featured in home design due to its mood-boosting and cleansing qualities.

Tenielle Jordison, our Gardens News Writer adds, 'It’s no surprise Marie Flanigan has chosen these three plants to green up her interiors. Not only are they all stunning houseplant choices, but, as she mentions, they bring wider benefits to our homes. Snake plants have long been chosen for their air-purifying qualities, removing toxins from the air. It’s for this reason many people choose to have them as a bedroom plant for a better night’s sleep. They’re also indoor low-light tolerant plants, ideal for shadier spots in the home.'

The distinct and leafy shrub would make a welcome addition to any home, and learning how to care for a snake plant to ensure it lasts for years.

2. The spider plant

There are a few easier indoor plants than the spider plant.

Dubbed 'spider' due to its thin leaves that branch out like spider legs, the plant is a classic indoor variety that provides the home with freshness and a pop of vibrant color. There are a few types of spider plants, but any would look great placed in a stylish ceramic pot or hanging basket.

Tenielle explains, 'Spider plants are one of the easiest indoor plants to grow. They thrive even when neglected, but will do best when they aren’t left to dry out. As well as being known to improve air quality, spider plants are loved for the baby plants (or spiderettes) they produce. You can even grow a hanging spider plant that beautifully trails down with clusters of offshoots.'

The spider plant is the ultimate home decor piece that will elevate plain surfaces. With the right spider plant care, you'll have a luscious centerpiece that will cheer up a bedside table, entryway console, or empty shelf.

3. The peace lily

The peace lily (also known as Spathiphyllum) is Marie's third go-to plant variety which she features in her interior designs. It's pretty easy to spot due to its distinct, tear-drop-shaped flower and dark green leaves. It's an elegant and delicate variety, making it a staple home decor choice that's bound to lift the spirits.

'If there’s only one air-cleaning indoor plant to go for, it’s a peace lily,' Tenielle explains. 'They are known to be one of the most effective air-purifying plants and they can tolerate a range of conditions, although they’ll bloom for longer when growing in bright light.'

Following the right peace lily care will ensure your potted plant will stand proudly all year long. The beauty of decorating with plants is that they work with every interior design style. Whether you're a minimalist looking for a touch of greenery or a maximalist who wants to add to your ever-growing collection, a peace lily is an elegant and calming accessory.

Marie has long been decorating with plants due to their ability to elevate an interior, providing contrast with texture, color, and pattern. You get the best of both worlds with these 3 varieties as they not only look great but provide you with all the essential mood-boosting perks.