Houseplants are the soul of interior decoration; without them, you will feel that something is missing. It adds both style and calm indoors – but some of them can be harmful to your kids and four-legged friends. This quick yet impactful guide will help you you can avoid accidental poisonings and other problems.
Let’s explore 7 popular houseplants that may look mesmerizing but can be hazardous to your pets and children.
1. Dieffenbachia – Dumb Cane
Why it’s unsafe – Dumb Cane is popularly grown as a houseplant, adored for its broad leaves, but it contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic if chewed or ingested.
| Common symptoms | Irritation, vomiting, and drooling |
| Safer alternative | Spider plant or Calathea |
2. Peace Lily
Why it’s unsafe – Though its presence on the desk or on the tabletop gives a classic touch, it is toxic to kids and pets if chewed. Don’t get fooled by its popularity and looks.
| Common symptoms | Oral irritation & Nausea |
| Safer alternative | Prayer Plant |
3. Pothos
Why it’s unsafe – The most popular houseplant grown for its lush foliage and fast-growing nature, but its leaves contain calcium oxalate, which is toxic.
| Common symptoms | If ingested, you can see symptoms like difficulty swallowing and vomiting. |
| Safer alternative | Peperomia |
4. Snake Plant
Why it’s unsafe – A classic houseplant known for its low light tolerance capabilities, it also contains a toxin named saponin. It’s not life-threatening, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
| Common symptoms | Nausea, drooling, and digestive upset in pets. |
| Safer alternative | Areca Palm |
5. Philodendron – All Types
Why it’s unsafe – Famous houseplant which is adored for providing a tropical look in any setup, also known as a beginner-friendly plant, but it is toxic for both cats and dogs.
| Common symptoms | Can cause severe oral irritation if ingested. |
| Safer alternative | Prayer Plant |
6. Aloe Vera
Why it’s unsafe – Although aloe vera is used as a remedy for different skin and hair problems, the yellow sap, which is found inside the outer skin of its leaves, is toxic if ingested by children or pets.
| Myth Buster | Not entirely harmless |
| Safer alternatives | Haworthia |
7. Oleander
Why it’s unsafe – You can not treat this plant as a proper indoor plant, but some people grow it on their balcony. But let me tell you that the sap, which is released after being cut or plucked from the leaves, is extremely toxic; even touching it can be dangerous.
| Common symptoms | Drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. |
| Safer alternative | Hibiscus |
Final Tips
- Keep your houseplant at a safe distance from your kids and pets if you’re not sure about its toxic nature.
- You can also check the ASPCA or toxic plant list before purchasing any plant.
- For being on the safer side, opt for non-toxic varieties or species, or plant the toxic ones in hanging planters.
Conclusion
Your home can be stylish and safe. By choosing pet- and kid-friendly houseplants, you ensure peace of mind along with the greenery. Double-check your current plant list—you might be surprised what’s hiding in plain sight.
