A decorative humidifier is provided that utilizes the structural features of common houseplants in a new and advantageous ways by providing stalks or stems to form hollow water vapor conduits for humidifying vapor. A planter conceals a water source for the humidifier. Flowers at the end of the stems may serve as water vapor exits. Particular plants may be chosen for advantageous features, such as long and numerous stems and flowers that may serve as an inconspicuous vapor exits. A drying unit may be connected to the vapor tube in order to force dry air through vapor channels to prevent growth of microbes and accumulation of deposits. The natural features of a chosen plant are utilized to create a synergy between aesthetics and function in a decorative humidifier.

Systems and methods are provided for materials, methods for making such materials, and apparatus and systems using such materials, which may be used for climate control, that is, cooling or warming using water evaporation and condensation to efficiently cool or warm living spaces, devices, and equipment with or without electricity and in any climate. The materials may comprise clay, carbon, and a metal, and may be formed, treated with water or other substances, and baked. The materials may be incorporated into apparatus and systems that provide cooling and/or heating.