Pet-Friendly Plants: 10 Gorgeous, Non-Toxic Options for Your Home
If your home includes four-legged family members, you know how important it is to keep them safe from harm. While plants can make your space feel cozy and fresh, some of them are actually toxic to pets. But don't worry! There are plenty of beautiful, non-toxic houseplants that are safe for your cats and dogs to be around.
Here is a list of some of the best pet-friendly houseplants that can bring natural beauty into your space—without any risk to your four-legged family members!
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The spider plant is one of the most popular choices for pet owners. It’s non-toxic to both cats and dogs, so you don’t have to worry about your pets munching on it. Plus, its long, spiky leaves and cute little “babies” (offshoots) hanging down give it a fun, dynamic look.
Care tips: Spider plants are super easy to care for! Keep them in indirect light and water them when the soil feels dry. Just be careful not to overwater them, and they’ll thrive.
2. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
These lush, feathery ferns are not only safe for pets but also great for air quality. Their soft, green leaves add a touch of elegance to any room, making them perfect for living rooms or bathrooms.
Care tips: Boston ferns love humidity and indirect light, so they’ll do well in a bathroom or near a kitchen window. Keep their soil moist, but not soggy, and mist them occasionally to keep them happy.
3. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
If you want a larger plant with a tropical vibe, the Areca palm is a fantastic option. It’s safe for both cats and dogs, and its graceful, feathery fronds will make your home feel like a peaceful oasis.
Care tips: Areca palms thrive in bright, indirect light. Water them when the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid letting them sit in water. They’re pretty forgiving but will thrive with a little attention.
4. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
The parlor palm is another pet-safe palm plant, and it's perfect for smaller spaces. It’s easy to care for and adds a nice touch of greenery without being too big or fussy.
Care tips: This plant does well in low to moderate light, so it’s perfect for areas of your home that don’t get direct sunlight. Water it when the top inch of soil feels dry. It’s low-maintenance but thrives in a bit of love!
5. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
With its colorful, patterned leaves, the prayer plant is a real eye-catcher. It’s completely safe for pets, and its leaves fold up at night, like little hands in prayer—how cool is that?
Care tips: Prayer plants need bright, indirect light and love a bit of humidity. Water them regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy, and they’ll reward you with their beautiful foliage.
6. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
Bamboo palms are not only safe for pets, but they’re also excellent air purifiers! Their graceful, arching fronds bring a tropical feel to any room, and they’re totally safe for your animals to be around.
Care tips: Bamboo palms do best in moderate to low light. Water them when the soil feels dry but be careful not to overwater. They’re super adaptable and easy to keep healthy.
7. Calathea (Calathea spp.)
Calatheas are simply stunning, with beautifully patterned leaves in colors like purple, green, and cream. They're completely safe for pets and make a gorgeous addition to any home.
Care tips: Calatheas thrive in warm, humid conditions and indirect light. Keep their soil evenly moist, but not soaked. They’ll love a little extra humidity, so consider placing them in a bathroom or using a humidifier.
8. Petunia (Petunia spp.)
If you’re looking for a burst of color, petunias are a great choice. These pretty flowers are non-toxic to pets and can be grown indoors, adding a cheerful vibe to your home.
Care tips: Petunias need lots of sunlight, so be sure to place them in a spot where they can get plenty of natural light. Keep their soil well-drained and water regularly.
9. Pilea (Pilea peperomioides)
Pileas, or "Chinese money plants," are quirky, non-toxic plants with adorable round leaves. They’re perfect for small spaces and add a pop of green wherever you put them. Plus, they’re super easy to propagate if you want to share the love!
Care tips: Pileas love bright, indirect light and need their soil to dry out between waterings. They're pretty low-maintenance and will reward you with healthy, happy leaves.
10. Rattlesnake Plant (Goeppertia insignis)
Rattlesnake plants are unique and safe for pets, with vibrant, patterned leaves that are sure to impress. They’re part of the Calathea family and are another excellent choice for pet owners.
Care tips: Like other Calatheas, rattlesnake plants love humidity and indirect light. Water them regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, and they’ll do great in your home.
A Few Tips for Keeping Your Plants Safe & Happy
Place plants out of reach: Even though these plants are non-toxic, it's still a good idea to keep them in places where your pets can’t nibble on them. It’ll help prevent any upset tummies and keep your plants looking good!
Check regularly: Sometimes pets like to chew, even on non-toxic plants. Keep an eye on your plants and your pets to make sure everyone is safe.
Clean your plants: Dust and dirt can collect on plant leaves, especially with pets around. Give your plants a gentle wipe-down every now and then to keep them looking fresh.
Always double-check any plant you bring into your home. If you’re not sure, the ASPCA’s toxic and non-toxic plant list is a great resource for information and peace of mind.
With so many pet-friendly plants available to choose from, it’s easy to create lush, green spaces in your home that are both beautiful and safe for your pets. Whether you're drawn to the airy fronds of a parlor palm or the vibrant colors of a prayer plant, these non-toxic plants will add charm to your space without any worries.
When shopping at any of our Wasson Garden Centers, look for the "pet-friendly" sticker on our houseplants for added assurance a plant your considerings, is safe for your fur kid!
