(Image: Getty Images)
Houseplants are an easy way to inject a pop of colour and enhance the atmosphere of any home.
But as autumn creeps in, cooler weather, more rain, and damp conditions can turn even the most beloved greenery into a hidden hazard for allergy sufferers.
Dust mites and pet dander can also build up as windows remain closed and families spend more time indoors, adding to the problem.
As a result, Ayca Carlisle, Interiors Expert from The Sliding Door Wardrobe Company, has shared six houseplants to be aware of that could be making your allergies worse.
The 6 houseplants that could make your autumn allergies worse
Maidenhair fern
This delicate plant is known for its lacy, attractive fronds, but it requires high humidity and constantly moist soil.
In already damp homes, this can promote mould growth, making it unsuitable for those with allergies or respiratory conditions.
Peace lily
Peace lilies also thrive in moist conditions, increasing humidity that can lead to mould growth.
This can trigger respiratory issues, especially in people with asthma or allergies, making them less ideal for autumn and winter months.
Boston fern
The Boston fern is a high-maintenance plant that also releases spores that cause sneezing and itching when inhaled – a serious concern for asthma sufferers.
Boston ferns release spores that cause sneezing and itching when inhaled (Image: Getty Images)
The plant is thirsty, demanding constant moisture and humidity levels that are difficult to maintain, especially during the colder months.
Without them, you get crispy, shedding fronds constantly dropping across your floors.
English ivy
While English ivy is known for its ability to filter air pollutants, it can also collect dust and mould on its leaves when kept indoors.
This can worsen allergy symptoms, leading to nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes.
Chrysanthemum
Bright and colourful chrysanthemums are a common sight in garden centres, but they are not ideal for allergy sufferers.
Chrysanthemums are related to ragweed, which continues to release pollen long into the autumn months.
Some pollen allergy sufferers will also be allergic to the dreaded ragweed, experiencing classic hay fever symptoms of itchy eyes, sneezing, blocked nose and coughing.
Night-blooming jasmine
This plant is prized for its evening fragrance, but its scent can be overpowering and problematic.
Ayca said: "In an enclosed bedroom, that scent builds considerably after dark, which is precisely when it blooms.
"While the idea of drifting off to a floral aroma may sound relaxing, the reality is a stuffy room and a restless night."
These plants continue blooming into early autumn, and as we all close our windows against the cooler weather, the problem only worsens.
If you do want to keep this one, make sure it’s in a well-ventilated living room or on the patio, where its scent can be enjoyed rather than endured.
What plants do you avoid having in the house in the autumn? Let us know in the comments.