Bringing the beauty of nature indoors is a delightful way to create a peaceful and vibrant living space. However, as pretty as they come, not all plants are safe around pets and the little ones. Choosing indoor plants that speak to your style and care may be a challenge but luckily, there is a wide selection of non-toxic houseplants you can choose from!
Here are our five favorite pet-safe houseplants that can help spruce up your home, check them out!
Pothos/devil’s ivy
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), also known as Devil’s Ivy, is a trailing vine with heart-shaped leaves. The leaves come in various colors, including green, variegated, and golden. Pothos thrives in medium to bright indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. They prefer well-draining soil and moderate humidity.
Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings and avoid overwatering. Pothos plants are fairly low maintenance and can adapt to different environments. It’s important to keep in mind that while pothos is considered pet-safe, consuming large quantities of the plant can still cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets.
Snake plants
Snake plants (Sansevieria spp.) are known for their tall, upright leaves that are typically green with unique patterns and textures. They are highly adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from low to bright indirect light. Snake plants prefer well-draining soil and are quite drought-tolerant. Water them sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Snake plants are excellent air purifiers and are considered pet-safe houseplants, making them a popular choice for both beginner and experienced plant owners.
Hoyas
Hoyas, plants from the Hoya genus, come in various species with different leaf shapes and growth habits. They are often characterized by their waxy leaves and clusters of fragrant flowers. Hoyas generally prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings and avoid overwatering, as they can be susceptible to root rot. While hoyas are generally considered pet-safe houseplants, it’s still important to prevent pets from chewing or ingesting any plant material.
Calatheas
Prayer plants (Calathea spp.) are known for their striking foliage patterns, often featuring vibrant colors and intricate markings. The leaves fold up at night, resembling hands in prayer. Calatheas prefer bright, indirect light but are sensitive to direct sunlight. They thrive in humid conditions and prefer well-draining soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging. It’s best to use filtered water or allow tap water to sit out overnight to remove any chlorine. Calatheas are not only pet-safe but also non-toxic to humans. They can be a bit more demanding in terms of care, requiring higher humidity levels and consistent watering.
Rubber Plants
Rubber plants (Ficus elastica) have large, glossy leaves that add a touch of drama to any space. They prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Rubber plants require well-draining soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. It’s important to note that while rubber plants are generally considered to be pet-safe plants, the milky sap they produce can cause mild irritation if ingested in large quantities. It’s best to keep pets away from chewing on the plant’s leaves or stems.
