Are house plants making your home mouldy?

"The bulk of the released moisture is absorbed into furnishings and furniture, so the good thing is that plants will rarely present a problem and will not significantly increase ambient humidity," says Dr Tijana Blanusa, a Principal Horticulturalist at the RHS.

Some articles online claim the opposite, stating that house plants can help remove mould. While there have been studies to show that some species of house plants (in large numbers) can improve air quality, removing CO2 and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) from the air, there's no evidence yet to prove that house plants can reduce mould.

If you do have a damp or condensation-prone house, and are still worried about plants releasing water, choose species that thrive in moderate humidity as they are less likely to release moisture into the air. According to Chris Taylor, RHS Horticultural Advisor, the plants below will all survive in homes with average humidity, including cacti and succulents. "Although these plants don't suck in moisture from the air, the need to water less can also help reduce humidity in rooms," says Chris.

Expert picks: Great house plants to grow

Ivy (Hedera helix)

Ivy grown as a house plant will thrive in humid environments. This tough plant not only looks good placed on a shelf, where it's stems can trail down, but it is also a good choice for low light. It may not remove mould but it has been shown to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air. There has also been a study by the RHS showing that growing ivy on the outside wall of buildings can help reduce humidity indoors, so it might be worth considering it as a climber, as well as a house plant.

Peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii)

These graceful house plants grow well in moderate humidity. They are the perfect plants for a bathroom or kitchen, where there is more moisture in the air than other rooms. Place them in indirect light, in a warm spot – watering when the leaves start to droop. They will reward you with white flowers (actually spathes) that last for months and glossy leaves that look good year round.

Boston fern (Nephrolepsis exaltata)

This fern is native to tropical forests in South America where the atmosphere is humid. It has attractive arching fronds that add a freshness indoors. It's easy to care for as long as the air isn't too dry, which can cause the leaves to turn brown. Place it in a room that has bright, indirect light – bathrooms and kitchens are ideal – and water frequently.

Air plants (Tillandsia spp.)

Known as epiphytes, air plants don't grow in the ground, but attach their roots to other plants, such as trees. They absorb moisture from rainfall, through cells on the surface of their leaves. This means they benefit from misting regularly and reliable humidity. In addition, they may need to be soaked in water every two weeks or so (depending on conditions) to ensure they have enough moisture. Shake them dry after dipping. Grow them in hanging terrariums or attached to branches that simulate their wild habitat.

Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Spider plants are among the easiest house plants to grow as they are adaptable. They grow well almost anywhere but prefer bright light to prevent them becoming one-sided and straggly. Spider plants have arching green or variegated leaves, making it an attractive addition to a shelf or hanging pot.

Philodendron xanadu

Add bold foliage to your house with this eye-catching plant that has large lobed leaves up to 45cm long. Philodendron xanadu can grow up to 1.2m tall and makes a striking addition to rooms that get less light. Grow it as a large potted plant to cheer up the corner of a room or on a hall table as a focal point. It does best in light shade and moderate humidity.

Cacti and succulents

These easy care house plants thrive on sunny, south-facing windowsills. They can be spiky and sometimes brittle, so put them where you won't brush past them. They store water in fleshy leaves and stems, which means in winter they can keep going without water. If they shrivel significantly, water lightly.