Licorice is a perennial legume that is native to the Mediterranean region, Asia, and parts of Europe. The plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its healing properties. One of the lesser-known benefits of licorice is its ability to produce oxygen, which makes it a valuable addition to any garden or indoor space.
Like all plants, licorice plant produces oxygen through the process of photosynthesis. During this process, the plant uses sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to create glucose and oxygen. The glucose is used as energy for the plant, while the oxygen is released into the air as a byproduct.
White licorice plant is particularly efficient at producing oxygen because of its large leaves and ability to grow quickly. The plant’s leaves are broad and green, which allows them to absorb a larger amount of sunlight. This means that the plant can produce more glucose and oxygen than other plants with smaller leaves.
The amount of oxygen that a plant produces depends on a variety of factors, including its size, age, and environmental conditions. However, studies have shown that white licorice plant is one of the most effective plants at producing oxygen.
According to a study conducted by NASA, white licorice plant produces 6-7 grams of oxygen per hour for every square meter of leaf area. This is significantly higher than many other common houseplants, such as snake plants and spider plants.
To put this in perspective, a single white licorice plant with about 1 square meter of leaf area can produce enough oxygen to support one person for an entire day. This makes it an excellent choice for indoor spaces where air quality may be poor.
In addition to producing oxygen, white licorice plant has several other benefits that make it a great choice for indoor spaces. Here are a few reasons why you should consider adding this plant to your home:
White licorice plant is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of environments. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
Yes, white licorice plant is toxic to both cats and dogs. If ingested, it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues. Keep the plant out of reach of pets or choose a different plant if you have pets in your home.
Yes, white licorice plant can grow outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 7-11. It prefers well-draining soil and partial sun.
White licorice plant should be repotted every 1-2 years. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and use fresh soil.
Yes, white licorice plant can be propagated by taking stem cuttings. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in moist soil. Keep the soil moist and the plant in bright, indirect sunlight until it establishes roots.