The Yucca, often called the Spanish Bayonet or Adam’s Needle, is a tough-as-nails, low-maintenance beauty. Because it’s so easygoing, it’s a popular choice for home decor, and you might be tempted to stick one in your bedroom to add some desert vibes. But is a bedroom really the best spot for you—or the plant? Let’s break it down.
Plants in the Bedroom
There’s a long-standing debate about whether plants actually belong in the bedroom. Some people love the idea because plants produce oxygen, while others are worried because plants technically consume oxygen at night.
So, does adding some greenery to your sleeping space actually improve or ruin the air quality? To be honest, the answer is: neither.
Plants and Photosynthesis: Releasing Oxygen
It’s a well-known fact that plants release oxygen through their leaves. This happens as a byproduct of photosynthesis, the chemical process plants use to make food. However, photosynthesis requires light. This means that once the sun goes down, your indoor plants stop producing oxygen for the night.
Respiration: Consuming Oxygen
Plants don’t just photosynthesize; they also breathe (or “respire”). Just like us, they take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide (CO2) 24/7. Because they aren’t photosynthesizing at night, they are technically “using up” oxygen without replacing it while you sleep. This is why some people argue that bedroom plants are competing with you for air.
Air Quality: Better or Worse?
In reality, that argument doesn’t hold much water. You would need to turn your bedroom into a literal jungle with hundreds of plants before you’d notice even a tiny dip in oxygen levels. The same goes for the benefits—a single plant isn’t going to significantly boost your oxygen during the day, either. If you want fresh air, your best bet is still just cracking a window!
Yucca in the Bedroom
Since a Yucca isn’t going to drastically change your air quality, the real question is: will the plant actually be happy in your bedroom? Generally speaking, the answer is “probably not.” Here’s why:
- Yuccas crave bright light and warmth.
- Most bedrooms tend to be kept dark (with curtains closed) and on the cooler side.
Because Yuccas are sun-lovers, they usually struggle in the typical bedroom environment. If you’re looking to green up your sleeping space, you’re much better off choosing “low-light” plants that actually enjoy the shade.
