Updated: May 27, 2022

Do you have a cat palm plant in your home or office? Apart from looking beautiful, did you know that this plant is known for its air-purifying qualities? Cat palm plants are one of the most popular indoor plants because they are low-maintenance, aesthetically pleasing, and can improve the air quality in your surroundings. But how much oxygen does a cat palm plant produce? Let’s explore.

What is Cat Palm Plant?

Cat palm plants, also known as Chamaedorea cataractarum, are native to the rainforests of southeastern Mexico and Guatemala. They are small palm trees that grow up to 6 feet tall and are commonly used as indoor ornamental plants. These plants have delicate fronds that resemble bamboo leaves and can thrive in low to medium light conditions.

How Does Cat Palm Plant Produce Oxygen?

Like all green plants, cat palm plants produce oxygen through photosynthesis – the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy. During this process, plants take in carbon dioxide from the air and release oxygen into the atmosphere. This exchange of gases helps to purify the air around us by removing harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.

How Much Oxygen Does Cat Palm Plant Produce?

Research has shown that cat palm plants can produce up to 1 liter of oxygen per day per plant [1]. However, the amount of oxygen produced by a plant depends on various factors such as its size, age, and environmental conditions like light, temperature, and humidity.

Other Benefits of Cat Palm Plant

Apart from producing oxygen and purifying the air, cat palm plants offer several other benefits as well. Here are some of them:

  • They can help reduce stress levels: Studies have shown that having plants around us can help reduce stress levels and increase productivity [2].

  • They can improve indoor air quality: Cat palm plants are known for their air-purifying qualities and can remove harmful chemicals from the air.

  • They can add aesthetic value: Cat palm plants are visually appealing and can add a touch of greenery to any space.

How to Care for Cat Palm Plant?

Cat palm plants are low-maintenance and easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of your cat palm plant:

  • Light: Cat palm plants prefer bright, indirect light, but they can also tolerate low light conditions.

  • Water: Water your cat palm plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.

  • Humidity: Cat palm plants thrive in humid conditions. You can mist them regularly or place a tray of water near them to increase humidity levels.

  • Fertilizer: Feed your cat palm plant with a balanced fertilizer once every two months during the growing season.

FAQ

Q. Can cat palm plant survive in low light conditions?

A. Yes, cat palm plants can tolerate low light conditions, but they prefer bright, indirect light.

Q. How often should I water my cat palm plant?

A. Water your cat palm plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.

Q. Can I keep my cat palm plant outdoors?

A. No, cat palm plants are indoor ornamental plants and cannot tolerate direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.

Q. How do I increase humidity levels for my cat palm plant?

A. You can mist your cat palm plant regularly or place a tray of water near it to increase humidity levels.

Q. How tall does a cat palm plant grow?

A. Cat palm plants can grow up to 6 feet tall, but they usually stay smaller when grown indoors.

In conclusion, cat palm plants are not only aesthetically pleasing but also have air-purifying qualities. They can help improve indoor air quality, reduce stress levels, and add a touch of greenery to any space. While they may not produce a significant amount of oxygen, they are still a great addition to any home or office. So, go ahead and get yourself a cat palm plant today!