Indoor Plants

Hey y’all! So I know that everyone is looking for just the right gift for the Mom in their life, and being a Mom myself, I’d say you can never go wrong with a bouquet of flowers! There’s just something cheery about flowers that makes everyone smile. So go ahead and get your Mom, wife, or just someone special in your life (why not!) a gift of flowers! Just make sure that if they have pets, try to avoid some of these flowers. After all, you wouldn’t want to spend Mother’s Day, (or any other day) at the vet because your precious little ball of fur got his fill of the flowers too. So scroll down for the list of flowers to avoid, and check out this awesome post about safe flowers to use instead!

Flowers Toxic to Pets #1 – Bulbs

Heads up… most bulbs are toxic to pets. Especially the actual bulb part of the plant. In cut flowers, this includes hyacinths, iris, tulips, daffodils, amaryllis, lilies, and gladiolas. And because a picture is worth a thousand words, here are the main ones you should avoid in your bouquet…

#2 – Mums and Dahlias

I know that these are some of the most common flowers found in bouquets. But yes, they are indeed toxic to pets. And remember that these flowers can look quite different depending on the variety, so if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask the florist for proper identification! *Mums are short for chrysanthemums… florists will call them by both names…

#3 – Low Toxicity Flowers

These two flowers may not be deadly, but they are still worth avoiding if your pet likes to nibble on your plants. These are baby’s breath and carnations. I know, I know… Two more insanely common bouquet flowers…

#4 – Potted Plants

Though not technically cut flowers, I thought I should throw these two flowering plants in just to be safe. Some of the most common potted plants that are sold for Mother’s Day (and for several other holidays) are azaleas and gardenias. Though they are extremely beautiful, they are also toxic to pets and should be kept out of reach of curious pets, or should only be kept indoors (or outdoors, depending on your pet’s situation). An added tip, however, is that azaleas and gardenias are extremely difficult to keep as an indoor plant. For other options in plant-giving, check out my post on non-toxic houseplants for pets. The plants in this post are generally easier to keep alive and your pet-owner will thank you!

So that’s my list of cut flowers that are toxic to pets! Make sure to check out this helpful post that will tell you which flowers you should buy for pet-owners! It also includes a FREE Printout that you can use as a handy reminder when purchasing flowers! So enjoy this little freebie and please leave any further questions or comments below!

Happy Digging!

For those of you who missed my original post, 10 Hard to Kill Houseplants , there was a lot of interest in these easy, low maintenance plants. So I decided, why not give everyone a few more to choose from?! Here’s a list of some of the less common indoor plants that are still easy, low maintenance, and hard to kill houseplants!

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

#1: Chinese Evergreen – Aglaonema

Starting off with one of the more vibrant plants, this low maintenance thriller also does well in low light conditions. Keep away from direct sunlight and let it dry out a little (not too much) in between waterings. Also, keep away from drafts, as this can cause the leaves to brown. Other than that, this plant is easy to care for, very forgiving, and cut leaves will propagate easily in water, leaving you with plenty of plants for your indoor space!

#2: Peperomia – Peperomia

Also called the Radiator plant, Peperomia is definitely on the easy to grow list. These plants prefer medium to brighter sunlight, but can also do well in low light conditions. This will produce a leggier (less bushy) plant and may reduce the vibrant colors in some variegated varieties, but they will tolerate it. They also store water in their fleshy leaves, so make sure to let it dry out a little between watering, as this plant can also handle a bit of neglectful care.

#3: Ponytail Palm – Beaucarnea recurvata

Ponytail palm is one of my favorite indoor plants! I just love the little tuft of leaves sprouting out the top that gives this little guy a very unique and soft look. Another name for this plant is Elephant’s foot, due to the large bulge at the base of the trunk. These plants are actually part of the succulent family, so make sure that the soil remains dry between waterings. Too much water and there can be some serious root damage. Ponytail palms also like bright light, but can do well without it during the winter months as long as it gets plenty of sun in the summer. In warmer climates it can actually be moved outdoors during the warmer months.

#4: Wandering Jew – Tradescantia pallida

Wandering Jew, often confused with Purple Heart, has deep purple and silver leaves and is a somewhat less common indoor vine (as the more common Pothos vine has been bigger in popularity lately). Don’t rule this one out, however, as it still looks and does great in the indoors! To keep Wandering Jew happy, give it bright light in the mornings, but avoid intense afternoon sunlight. It can also do well in low light conditions, but will become more leggy (less leaves on longer vines). Let it dry out a little between watering and make sure the base of the plant doesn’t stay wet as it will rot if too moist. Also pinch back the vines several times a year in order to get a more bushy vine.

#5: Rubber Plant – Ficus elastica

This ficus is one of the easiest of its relatives to grow! Keep it in bright but indirect sunlight and let it dry out between watering. Rubber plants come in a variety of sizes and can be either a small counter-top plant, or as big as a large tree. Also check out the variegated rubber plant for something pleasantly different for your space!

#6: Ti Plant – Cordyline terminalis

Ti plant is another very colorful indoor plant with varieties in a mix of purples, pinks, creams, and greens. Very slow growing, this low maintenance plant does well in bright light and can handle getting a bit dry. Just watch for the leaves getting brown on the edges. This is a sign that it’s been too dry, so step up the watering just a notch. This plant also does well with humidity, so it is the perfect plant for a bright shower area!

#7: Jade Plant – Crassula ovata

Though a bit more water-loving than its succulent cousins, the jade plant is still an easy-to-care-for plant! Make sure that it gets a medium amount of sunlight and let the soil get slightly dry between watering and don’t let the leaves get wet. Jade plants will like a bit more water during the summer time and a little less during the winter. Keep the same water to sunlight hours ratio for a good estimate of watering needs. Also, if the leaves are starting to brown and fall off, it means that your little guy needs a bit more water. Just make sure that it never stays wet. Like all succulents, this will make your jade plant start to rot.

#8: Dumbcane – Dieffenbachia

Dumbcane is a common houseplant to find in local plant centers. Be warned, however, that ingestion of this plant can cause swelling of the throat and tongue, and if ingested in large amounts, can cause suffocation. So keep away from children and animals that would be curious to give this plant a taste. The leaves are a beautiful, spotted green and white, but will turn yellow if it is getting too much sun. Keep it in moderate to bright indirect light. Also, be careful to not overwater this little guy. Let it dry out just a touch between watering. Also, as the plant grows upward, the lower leaves will turn brown and drop. This is normal, just keep doing what you’re doing and trim off any unsightly lower leaves.

#9: Hoya Plant – Hoya

There are several different types of Hoya, differing in leaf shape and colors from green to cream and pink! All Hoyas enjoy medium to bright light, but don’t do well in direct sunlight. They also do well with a bit of neglect as they like to dry out a bit before watering. Just make sure that they don’t receive too much water! Keep in smaller pots, as these guys like to get a bit root bound and it can also stimulate flowering.

#10: Umbrella Tree – Schefflera 

Like several of the other plants in this list, Umbrella Tree, often called Schefflera, does best in bright, but indirect light. It also does not like to be overwatered. If your leaves are turning yellow and falling off, then it is either getting too much direct sunlight, or it is getting too much water. Make sure that all of these plants are in a well-draining pot that will allow your plant to dry out slightly between watering. For Schefflera plant care tips, check out this post by The Spruce, the Schefflera Plant Profile!

That’s it for my list of 10 More Hard to Kill Houseplants! Some of these can be found at local garden centers, but others may need to be specially ordered. And if you haven’t yet seen my original list of Top 10 Hard to Kill Houseplants, check it out here! Good luck, and feel free to comment below with any additional tips or questions!

Happy digging!

Some people want houseplants for the added green, some people want them for their air purifying qualities. And some people just like the look of them. But today we’re going to focus on those people who love the smell of their houseplants! Here’s a list of the top 10 fragrant houseplants, along with a few tips on how to keep them alive!

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

Fragrant Houseplant #1: Lavender – Lavandula

Probably one of the easier fragrant plants to grow, lavender has many different beneficial properties. Not only is the scent soothing to aid in falling asleep, but it is also a natural bug repellent! Just make sure that it gets adequate sunlight and moderate water. For info on how to care for this plant, check out my post, Indoor Lavender Plant Care!

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #2: Roses – Rosa

Roses come in all shapes and sizes. When choosing and indoor rose, choose a smaller variety so that it won’t try to take over the entire room! Also, if space is limited, consider purchasing a climbing rose and planting it against a trellis just outside of your window. This will allow you to crack open your window at night for some cool air, as well as the lovely smell of roses.

Check out this miniature fragrant rose here!

Fragrant Houseplant #3: Lemon Balm – Melissa officinalis

This is a wonderfully fragrant plant that, like lavender, also has many different beneficial properties. It can also tolerate less light conditions, however it does like consistent waterings. Don’t let it sit in water, but do try to keep it a bit more moist.

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #4: Gardenia – Gardenia jasminoides

Gardenias smell amazing, but are one of the harder houseplants to keep alive indoors. Generally, they like to be in warm, sunny locations. They also like to be in well-drained soil that is given the chance to dry out just a touch between waterings, but also make sure to keep the leaves dry when watering. Gardenias also like humidity, so either place in a sunny bathroom, or keep it humid with a tray of pebbles and water nearby (this will increase the nearby relative humidity). This can also be planted outside near a window to draw the scent inside, or planted outside and the flowers used in a floral bouquet that will bring the wonderful smell indoors!

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #5: Orchid – Orchidaceae

One of our tropical fragrances, the smell of orchids have become quite popular lately. They are also wonderfully compact plants, and they can usually be encouraged to re-bloom for twice the amount of sweet-smelling flowers each year. Just make sure that it gets enough sunlight and that it stays warm.

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #6: Citrus Plants – Rutaceae

All citrus plants have that distinct, tangy scent that freshens up any indoor space. There are also quite a few dwarf varieties that are becoming available to those who want anything from lemons, to tangerines, to grapefruit in their home!

Check out this indoor orange tree!

Fragrant Houseplant #7: Honeysuckle – Lonicera

When looking for an indoor honeysuckle, make sure to purchase a dwarf variety, or soon it will be taking up way too much space. Just like the roses, this can also be a good option to grow just outside the window and allowed to reach its full size outdoors where the scent can flow in at night.

Find dwarf seeds here, or an outdoor plant here!

Fragrant Houseplant #8: Valerian – Valeriana officinalis

This was a new plant to me and I’ve loved reading up on it! Valerian has many different benefits, ranging from its sleep-inducing vanilla scented flowers to its roots that can be used as a mild sedative. This is a very good plant to have around! It does require a bit more attention indoors, however, as it needs at least 6 hours of sunlight each day and also needs a lot of watering.

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #9: Hoya – Hoya carnosa

Hoya is another one of the easier indoor plants to take care of. While they do like morning sunlight, they prefer more indirect light. The thicker, waxy leaves can also do well with a little bit of neglect and don’t need as much constant watering. The flowers also produce a nice, sleep-inducing fragrance that is perfect for placing in a bedroom.

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #10: Jasmine – Jasminum

Make sure that you buy actual jasmine (Jasminus), and not the fake jasmine (Philadelphus). Both smell great and do well as houseplants, but only the real jasmine contains the sedative properties that are great for inducing sleep through its fragrance, as well as being used for tea. One benefit to jasmine is that it can be planted in a soil-less potting mix, but it does require a higher level of sunlight. But the added attention is definitely worth it when you can fall asleep to the wonderful, sweet fragrance at night.

Find it here!

That’s my list of fragrant, indoor plants! Feel free to comment below if there are any others that you love! And also feel free to ask any questions as well. I hope that we can all benefit from having some of these wonderful fragrant plants in our homes!

Happy Digging!

So after I did a post for small interior plants, I figured that I should do one about large interior plants. Unlike my tiny apartment, some of us are lucky and have wonderful, large rooms. And large rooms are perfect to add something that really makes a statement in the style that you want. These indoor plants are sure to grab people’s attention and will liven up any room fast!

Note: You can find many of these plants in smaller versions, but given adequate light, water, time, and a big enough pot, they will be able to reach their full mature size.

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

Large Indoor Plant #1: Split-leaf Philodendron – Monstera deliciosa

The Split-leaf Philodendron, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, has large, beautiful leaves. When fully grown, these leaves are often cut and used in artwork, or even floral arrangements. The distinctive look of this plant is sure to add texture to your space.

Split Leaf Philodendron – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #2: Dracaena – Dracaena spp.

There are many different types of dracaena that will all grow rather large if given proper care. The ‘Janet Craig’ dracaena and the ‘Cornstalk’ dracaena are especially suited and sold for their larger size. Just make sure that they don’t get too much light or water, as this can easily damage your plant.

Dracaena – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #3: Areca Palm – Dypsis lutescens

A long-time favorite, this is the classic indoor palm tree. Long, arching branches will look great in an style room, from cozy and cluttered, to minimalistic and modern. This palm just plain looks great anywhere!

Areca Palm – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #4: Fiddle-leaf Fig – Ficus lyrata

The Fiddle-leaf Fig has also been a big hit lately. With twisted, fiddle-shaped leaves and a more upright form, there is definitely something eye-catching about this plant. Make sure to keep it in once place, however, as being a ficus it doesn’t like to move around too much, as well as doesn’t like any warm or cold drafts.

Fiddle-leaf Fig – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #5: Flamingo Lily – Anthurium andraeanum

This plant is commonly sold as a smaller, younger plant. However, given enough time it can grow to be quite the large bush with beautiful, long leaves and flowers. One of the best ways to get this little guy to beef up is to slowly increase the size of the pot. Always make sure that it’s got a bit of wiggle room for its roots to grow, which will then ensure that the leaves will have the needed support to also grow larger.

Flamingo Lily – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #6: Weeping Fig – Ficus benjamina

Another popular tree from the ficus family, the Weeping Fig can get quite large if given the room to grow. However, make sure that it, like the Fiddle-leaf Fig, is put in a draft-free area and isn’t moved around. If put under stress, the Weeping Fig is likely to start shedding all of its leaves and eventually die (believe me, I know this from experience!) So take special care to pamper this big guy.

Weeping Fig – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #7: Ponytail Palm – Beaucarnea recurvata

I love this palm for its unique long leaves that really do resemble a ponytail! It is also known as the Elephant’s Foot palm as it has a large circular mound where it comes out of the soil. Definitely a unique plant, this palm does very well indoors and can grow as an outdoor tree in warmer climates.

Ponytail Palm – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #8: Snake Plant – Sansevieria trifasciata

While there are some smaller varieties of Snake Plant, most of them are considered large. I’ve found that Snake Plant will grow to its mature height (in wonderfully tall, modernistic lines), and then it will start to grow offshoots in either direction. So the larger the pot, the more full your snake plant will eventually be. This is perfect for some people as it will not continue to grow taller, but rather spread out. Put it in rectangular pots and it will add tons of sleek, sharp lines for your space.

Snake Plant – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #9: Umbrella Tree – Schefflera actinophylla

Also simply called Schefflera, this is also one of those plants that are commonly sold as a very small houseplant. But given time and care, it can grow to be a fairly large tree. Just be sure to be patient and continually increasing its pot size and you will soon be rewarded with a very full, leafy indoor tree.

Umbrella Tree – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #10: Bamboo – Bambusoideae

While not commonly thought of as an indoor plant, this is a great one for long, rectangular pots (just like the Snake Plant). Due to its weedy tendencies a lot of people shy away from this guy, but that’s exactly what makes it perfect for the indoors! It is kept in its individual container, and its fast-growing tendencies make it easy to wait for. And make sure to buy a bamboo that will do well with the light that you have in the particular space.

Bamboo – Get it here!

Well there’s my list of top 10 large houseplants! I know that having one (or more) of these guys will not only green up and add life to any space, but will also give you tons of added benefits to your life. So if you’re lucky enough to have the space, enjoy these awesome plants!

Happy Digging!

Not all of us have the luxury of extra space in our homes. This is one of the reasons why people don’t have houseplants… they feel like they don’t have the space for them! But here’s a list of 15 indoor plants that are perfect for small spaces. And don’t worry, I specifically chose plants that don’t just start small, but they’ll stay small! No need to move them to bigger and bigger pots. Nope, these really are small indoor plants!

Small Indoor Plants #1: Peperomia – Peperomia pellucida

This is a small, compact plant with semi-waxy leaves. It is very efficient in purifying the air, and is also an easy-to-care-for houseplant. Just make sure that it doesn’t get overwatered and the soil is allowed to dry between waterings.

Small Indoor Plants #2: Devil’s Ivy (Pothos) – Epipremnun aureum

I can’t say it enough how much I love Devil’s Ivy! This plant does well in low-light conditions and is hard to kill. It can do well being moist, but can also handle a bit of drying out. Left in a pot, it will continue to grow along the ends. These can simply be cut to desired length with a pair of scissors and the excess can either be tossed, or planted back into the pot for a thicker, bushier vine! For care information for this plant, check out my post Pothos Vine Care!

Small Indoor Plants #3: String of Pearls – Senecio rowleyanus

This is a great substitute for Devil’s Ivy. While the one can deal with extra water, String of Pearls is for those who tend to neglect their houseplants more often. It needs to dry out between waterings, or else it will die. And don’t worry, all of those little pearls are filled with water! And just like the Devil’s Ivy, this too can be trimmed at the ends and re-potted for more little plants! (just wind a little row around the top of a new pot and they will start to root!!!)

Small Indoor Plants #4: Spider Plant – Chlorophytum comosum

Spider plants are great for placing on countertops, side tables, or even hanging. They tend to grow to a full, bushy plant, then stop growing from there and instead send off their little ‘pups’. These small offshoots can either be left on for aesthetics, or they can be trimmed off and re-potted for more of these wonderful little plants! For care information for this plant, check out my post Spider Plant Care!

Small Indoor Plants #5: Orchids – Orchidaceae spp.

Orchids are a great, small plant. While taking up very little space for the pot, their vertical blooms are large and stunning, creating an instant focal point for any room. With proper care and instruction, they can even be persuaded to re-bloom multiple times, giving you multiple displays of these stunning blooms!

Small Indoor Plants #6: Heartleaf Philodendron – Philodendron cordatum

Heartleaf philodendron is also very similar to Devil’s Ivy. They prefer low-light conditions and do well with being overwatered, as well as can run a little dry. They have several different varieties available that can add different styles to your space.

Small Indoor Plants #7: Cacti – Cactaceae spp.

With so many to choose from, there are cacti for every space and style! Just make sure that they are in a well-draining potting mix, as well as they have time to dry out between waterings. They also do better with more sunlight, so sunny windowsills are great for these little guys! (as long as it isn’t too cold on the windowsill during the winter…)

Small Indoor Plants #8: English Ivy – Hedera helix

This little vine is great for the indoors! It prefers low light conditions and is one of my hard-to-kill houseplants. English Ivy is a very forgiving plant and can be trimmed back to stay in the space available.

Small Indoor Plants #9: Succulents

There are thousands of different types of succulents! Each one has a unique shape or coloring. They also vary quite a bit in size. From huge Agaves to their mini counterparts, succulents usually grow to a mature size, then will start producing seeds or offshoots. So when selecting a succulent, just make sure that the mature size fits with the space that you have in mind. For care information, check out my post Succulent Plant Care!

Small Indoor Plants #10: Lucky Bamboo – Dracaena braunii

Lucky bamboo has become quite popular in the last few years due to its ease in growing and its diversity in shapes. Lucky bamboo prefers low light conditions and does well in straight water. It is an easy-to-care-for houseplant and will be content for quite a long time before any trimming will be necessary. To know how to care for this plant, check out my post, Lucky Bamboo Plant Care!

Small Indoor Plants #11: Bromeliads – Bromeliaceae spp.

Bromeliads are a sure way to add a bit of interest to a room! With lots of different colors and leaf patterns to choose from, bromeliads do very well indoors considering their low light and low water requirements. Though some bromeliads can get huge, choose a variety that is more suited for the indoors and has a smaller mature size. Once it reaches that size, it should then only focus on storing energy for its beautiful flower stalks, as well as in producing new pups. These little plantlets can then be removed and either thrown away or repotted for even more bromeliads! (And remember… plants make great gifts!)

Small Indoor Plants #12: Aloe Vera – Aloe vera

This plant is a very common houseplant and is being seen more and more as fewer people have their own yards. Once again, choose a plant that will fit your space at its mature size and you won’t have any issues with running out of space. Also try to give it a bit more sunlight and let it dry out between waterings. The quickest way to kill a cactus or a succulent is by overwatering it! For information on how to care for this plant, check out my post on Aloe Plant Care!

Small Indoor Plants #13: African Violet – Saintpaulia

African violets are a pretty, small, flowering plant that does very well indoors. Some things to avoid, however, are overwatering and getting water on its leaves. This can cause brown spots to appear. Try to instead water the plant from the bottom through keeping it in a container with drainage holes and letting the pot sit in a shallow container of water for about 10 minutes. This will ensure that the leaves stay dry, while the roots stay moist. For care information for this plant, check out my post African Violet Plant Care!

Small Indoor Plants #14: Air Plants – Tillandsia spp.

Tillandsia (commonly referred to as simply ‘air plants’) have made quite the scene in recent indoor design. From the many different variations in usage to the very low-maintenance aspect, Air Plants are definitely on the rise! These plants can range in size and can come in slight variations in color. All air plants, however, need the same type of watering. Basically, do not water more than once a week, and during the weekly waterings, simply soak roots in water for 10-15 minutes, then put it back on display! For more information, check out my post, Air Plant Care, as well as How to Water Air Plants!

Small Indoor Plants #15: Venus Flytraps – Dionaea muscipula

While a little more difficult to take care of, Venus flytraps will definitely make a statement in any space. There are also many different sizes of flytraps that will stay small and compact for years. They do, however, need purified water, as some of the hard tap waters can cause damage to it. Also feed it according to the recommendations of the specific flytrap that you purchase. Then have fun watching these guys open and close, and maybe even get rid of some of the bugs in your home!

That’s it for my list of small interior plants! Once again, I tried to choose plants that not only started off small, but also stayed small and wouldn’t get too large over time. Because believe me, I understand when people are short on space, but still want to squeeze in a plant or two to liven things up! And feel free to share any comments or questions below!

Happy digging!

After looking at my post regarding poisonous indoor plants, I wanted to show you a list of safe indoor plants for pets. This list includes some of the most common houseplants that are not only available in most areas, but are also non-toxic to pets. So if you’re worried about your furry friends’ safety, then check out this list!

*Note: You can also check out my list of Common Cut Flowers that are Poisonous to Pets. This will ensure that pets don’t get sick eating your bouquet!*

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

#1: Boston Fern – Nephrolepis exaltata

This is a great plant, as it is also very low maintenance and easy to take care of! Boston ferns, as well as some other ferns (such as the maidenhair fern, rabbit’s foot fern, bird’s nest fern, and button fern) are all safe for pets. Even the ostrich fern is edible for human consumption! (Only the fiddle-heads, and only after a particular cooking routine, so be aware…) But there are also some ferns that are toxic to dogs and cats, such as the Asparagus fern. So just make sure that you know what you’re buying and that the label is correct.

Find it here!

#2: Peperomia – Peperomia

Peperomia is an awesome plant! It is also listed as one of the best air-cleaning plants, as well as one that is low maintenance and hard to kill! Just make sure that it isn’t overwatered. Let is get a little dry between waterings and both your plant and your pets will be safe and happy!

Find it here!

#3: Gerbera Daisy (Transvaal daisy) – Gerbera

Who doesn’t just love the look of a Gerbera daisy sitting on their table?! These daisies are safe for pets, but use plenty of caution when purchasing. Only the Gerbera daisy is safe. Most other daisies are toxic to dogs and cats. Chrysanthemums are also toxic and are often mistaken for daisies. So double check the tags and purchase from a reliable source.

Find it here!

#4: Mint – Mentha spp.

Grown for its amazing aroma and taste, almost all varieties of mint are safe for dogs and cats. The only ones to watch out for are English pennyroyal and perilla mint. These aren’t very common, but good to note just in case. Mint, as well as a variety of other herbs and spices, are actually good for your pets and can boost their health!

Find it here!

#5: Spider Plant – Chlorophytum comosum

The Spider plant has so many things going for it! Not only is it non-toxic for pets, but it is also on our list of air-purifying plants, hard to kill plants, and low light plants! This is definitely a plant that no one will have issues with!

Find it here!

#6: Palms – Arecaceae spp.

Almost all palms are safe for dogs and cats. This includes the areca palm, the parlor palm, and the ponytail palm, just to name a few. The main one to watch out for, however, is the sago palm. Usually an outdoor plant, they are becoming more popular as a houseplant. Though they are very distinctive in their looks, just make sure that you don’t accidentally bring one home to your pets.

Check out this awesome parlor palm!

#7: Bamboo – Bambusoideae spp.

Bamboo is non-toxic to dogs and cats. However, make sure that you don’t confuse this with lucky bamboo. Lucky bamboo is actually a type of dracaena and as such, is very toxic. But having an actual bamboo plant is perfectly harmless to any animals eating it.

Find it here!

#8: African violet – Saintpaulia

African violets are safe for cats and dogs. They are not safe for human consumption, however. Often confused with wild violets (which are edible for human consumption), african violets are harmful if consumed by people. These are safe for pets, but do not purchase if there are small children in the home.

Find it here!

#9: Burro’s tail – Sedum morganianum

This is a great succulent for anyone thinking about pet safety. With large, cascading clusters, it can be used as a hanging plant, as well as a compact table plant. It is a great alternative to the string of pearls succulent, which is toxic to both dogs and cats. You can find it cheap by ordering cuttings. Then check out my post on Propagating Succulents to easily grow this fun succulent!

Find it here!

#10: Cast Iron Plant – Aspidistra elatior

The Cast Iron Plant is not only non-toxic for pets, but is also a low maintenance, hard to kill, and low light plant. Aspidistra can easily replace a peace lily with its beautiful, lush foliage. An awesome choice for many different indoor spaces!

Find it here!

#11: Bromeliads – Bromeliaceae

One of the brightest low-light houseplant, bromeliads are becoming quite popular in the interiors. Not only are they bright and cheery, but they are also safe for your furry friends!

Find it here!

#12: Christmas Cactus – Schlumbergera

The Christmas cactus is a great choice for anyone wanting fragrant blooms that are also safe. Though seen as not very attractive without these blooms, the Christmas cactus can also be tricked into re-blooming. This isn’t for those new-to-plants people, however, as it can be a rather tedious process to force new blooms. But if successful, these gorgeous flowers are worth it!

Find it here!

#13: Phalaenopsis Orchids – Phalaenopsis spp.

Not all orchids are safe for pets. However, the phalaenopsis orchid is not only safe for cats and dogs, but the flowers are even safe for human consumption! Definitely an added bonus!

Find it here!

#14: Prayer plant – Maranta

The Prayer plant, also known as the peacock plant is not only non-toxic, but also does well in low light conditions. Along with bromeliads, the prayer plant can also add a lot of color to a darker indoor space.

Find it here!

#15: Wax plant (Hoya) – Hoya carnosa

Known for its fragrant blooms, the wax plant is usually bought because of its aroma. When placed in the bedroom, this aroma is said to aid people in getting a more restful sleep! Just keep it in warmer temperatures to ensure overall health of the plant.

Find it here!

That’s it for my list of plants that are safe for pets! I hope you find this list helpful! And please leave any comments or questions below. I love to hear from you!

Happy digging!

Having plants indoors can be a lot of fun, but not if you’re constantly worrying about your pet’s safety! But you can’t poisonous houseplants for pets if you don’t know which ones are safe. So here is a list of some of the most common houseplants that are toxic to dogs and cats!

*Note: If sending a pet owner some flowers, here is a link to my post Common Flowers that are Toxic to Pets!*

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

#1: Peace Lily – Spathiphyllum

This low maintenance, low light plant is great for anyone wanting an easy houseplant to care for. Except for those with plant-eating pets!

#2: Ficus – Ficus spp.

Ficus plants in general are toxic. These include the Rubber Plant, the Weeping Fig, and the Fiddle-leaf Fig, just to name the most common. When branches or leaves are crushed, they exude a milky substance that is toxic to pets, as well as can cause some irritation to human skin upon contact as well. Not everyone has this skin irritation, but it seems to be more prevalent in those who are sensitive to latex products.

#3: Snake Plant – Sansevieria trifasciata

Another one of the easiest plants to grow, it is also toxic to pets. So although it is great for the indoors, make sure that you carefully decide whether or not to include it in your home.

#4: Dracaena – Dracaena spp.

Dracaena plants all seem to be toxic to dogs and cats. This includes the Madagascar Dragon Tree, the Cornstalk Dracaena, and many others. If looking for a good substitute, try out a palm, as all palms are safe for pets.

#5: Devil’s Ivy (Pothos) – Epipremnum aureum

One of my personal favorite plants, I know I would want to keep it a safe distance from my dog. A good thing about this vine though, is that it would do well in a hanging basket, out of reach of most animals.

#6: Dumb Cane – Dieffenbachia

The Dumb Cane gets its name from the numbing effect that this plant has. If any part of this plant is chewed on, it would numb the mouth, and if any part was swallowed, it would cause swelling of the throat as well. This is probably one of the more dangerous of the houseplants that would not want to be kept around pets that tend to eat the plants…

#7: Philodendron – Philodendron spp. & Monstera spp.

Also a highly toxic plant, the philodendron species are all toxic. This includes the vining heartleaf philodendron, as well as the split leaf philodendron, also known as the swiss cheese plant. Basically, if you are worried about plant toxicity, do not get any plant from the philodendron family.

#8: Chinese Evergreen – Aglaonema

Though a very beautiful plant, it would be very difficult to keep this one away from dogs and cats. So stay safe and replace it with a Cast Iron plant for the leaf texture, or bromeliads for the color.

#9: English Ivy – Hedera helix

This one surprised me as English Ivy is so common that I didn’t think that it would be toxic! But it is! So be careful inside, as well as outside, as this is a very common vine. The Swedish ivy, however, is a non-toxic replacement you can use instead.

#10: Umbrella Tree – Schefflera actinophylla

The Umbrella Tree can be toxic if ingested in very large amounts. However, most cases seen with dogs and cats is instead mild vomiting and diarrhea. Personally, though, I would still not want a plant around that caused my pet to make a big mess that I’d have to clean up!

#11: Jade Plant – Crassula ovata

This plant is also not super toxic, but is still one to be aware of, since it is also very common as a houseplant. If eaten, usual signs are vomiting, depression, and uncoordination.

#12: Croton – Croton spp.

Croton reminds me of the poison frogs found in the rainforest. The bright colors mean they’re poisonous, and in this case, the bright markings of croton leaves are saying the same exact thing.

#13: Aloe Vera – Aloe vera

While there are many health benefits to aloe vera, it should not be ingested. And this includes dogs and cats, though I bet they would have just a bit harder of a time with this plant due to its sharp edges. It still wouldn’t be enough of a deterrent, however, for those more determined pets.

#14: Amaryllis – Amaryllis

This plant, though very pretty, is also toxic to pets. Some symptoms of ingestion are vomiting, depression, diarrhea, abdominal pain, hyper-salivation, anorexia, and tremors.

#15: Azalea – Rhododendron

Another very common houseplant, I would be very careful around this one with my pets. If ingested in large amounts, it could cause a reaction from vomiting to cardiac failure. Be careful of azaleas, as they have also become quite popular as a flowering plant to give as a gift. Just be aware if there are pets in the household, or if receiving it, make sure that it stays out of reach of any animals.

That’s the list of some of the most common houseplants that are toxic to dogs and cats. Let me know if you’ve ever run into any issues with these, or if there are more plants that you’d like to share! I know this isn’t a complete list! Check out the ASPCA website for a very detailed list of toxic and non-toxic plants.

Happy digging!