'I'm a gardening expert - this hardy plant will help stave off mould in your home'

A gardening expert has revealed the one plant to keep in your home to help prevent mould. Mould in a house can cause a range of health dangers, from allergic reactions to serious respiratory issues.

Homes with damp issues will often find that this becomes a mould problem, as moisture encourages the growth of particular dust mites, bacteria, moulds and viruses. Common symptoms from mould include coughing, wheezing, eye irritation, skin rashes, and headaches. For those with pre-existing conditions like asthma or weakened immune systems, mould can lead to severe reactions, asthma attacks, and increased risk of lung infections. Chris Bonnett, of Gardening Express, recommended one plant in particular to help deal with damp and therefore mould - the snake plant. Dracaena trifasciata is a species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae, native to tropical West Africa from Nigeria east to the Congo.

It is most commonly known as the snake plant, Saint George's sword, mother-in-law's tongue, and viper's bowstring hemp, among other names.

Chris told the Daily Mail: "This hardy and adaptable plant is another mould-loving plant. It absorbs moisture through its leaves, which will then travel through its roots. It grows best in bright light, but also grows just fine in low light. They love warm temperatures."

Snake plants can filter indoor air, even at night, converting carbon dioxide to oxygen. They can even remove pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde, xylene, trichloroethylene, and toluene.

They can also mitigate the impact of airborne allergens, such as dust and dander, by releasing oxygen and cleaning the air. This helps them create an environment where mould cannot thrive.

Partial sun works best for snake plants, although they can also grow in darker corners or in areas with brighter windows. If completely shaded, the plant can become dull, and the leaves may become a bit floppy.

Snake plants can be found at B&Q for £12, Sainsbury's for £8, and Ikea for £9. They can reach up to 5ft with the right pot and growing conditions.