Looking for Pet-Friendly Plants? We've Got You Covered!
Are you a proud pet owner who also loves plants? Our pup Rocko(pictured above) learned from a young age to ignore our plants, however cats are not as easy to train in that regard! Our cat Maia regularly tears into our plants if she can get to them.
We know how challenging it can be to find the perfect balance between a green oasis and a safe environment for your furry friends. That's why we've put together this guide to pet-friendly alternatives to popular plants. It's important to note, however, that while these plants are considered non-toxic, that doesn't mean it's good for pets to eat them in large quantities- make sure you're still monitoring your pets and keeping the plants out of their reach! Let's begin.
1. Fatsia Japonica: A Monstera Deliciosa Alternative
Monstera Deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, is a favorite among plant enthusiasts, unfortunately, it IS toxic. It has a unique lobed and fenestrated leaf shape that is hard to find in other plants, however the Fatsia Japonica, aka Japanese Aralia, is about as close of an alternative as you can find!
Japanese Aralia grow to a similar size, produce big and lush green leaves, and are also a very low-maintenance plant. While they don't have those iconic inner leaf fenestrations, they do still have a unique leaf shape, and as an added bonus, are actually safe for pets!
2. Polka Dot Plants: A Coleus Alternative
Coleus plants are known for their vibrant colors and striking patterns. However, most popular varieties contain toxins that can be harmful to pets. Luckily, we have a fantastic alternative: Polka Dot Plants. These adorable plants feature speckled leaves that come in red, pink or white colors, adding a playful touch to any space. Not only are they safe for your pets, but they also thrive in low to medium light conditions, making them perfect for indoor environments.
3. Ponytail Palm: A Dracaena Marginata Alternative
Dracaena Marginata plants are popular for their spiky foliage. But if you have pets, you might want to consider a safer alternative like the Ponytail Palm. With its long, cascading leaves resembling a ponytail, this plant brings a touch of whimsy to any room. It's also incredibly low-maintenance, making it an ideal choice for busy pet owners who still want to enjoy the beauty of indoor plants.
4. Fire Flash Plant: A Dracaena Fragrans Alternative
Dracaena Fragrans, commonly known as the Corn Plant, is a staple in many households. However, its leaves can be toxic to pets if ingested. Fear not! We've discovered a stunning alternative: the Fire Flash Plant. With its vibrant orange and green foliage, this plant adds a pop of color to any space. It's a pet-friendly option that will brighten up your home without posing any risks to your furry friends.
5. Pygmy Date Palm: A Sago Palm Alternative
Sago Palms are beautiful and exotic, but they contain toxins that can be harmful to pets if consumed. If you're looking for a safe alternative, the Pygmy Date Palm is an excellent choice. With its feathery fronds and compact size, this palm brings a touch of the tropics to your home while keeping your pets out of harm's way. It's a win-win situation!
6. China Doll Plant: A Coffee Plant Alternative
Coffee plants are lush and elegant trees, but unfortunately are toxic to pets. The China Doll plant has very different foliage, but is also an elegant-looking tree that thrives indoors! An additional perk the China Doll plant provides over the Coffee plant is the seeds are much easier to germinate and they grow much more quickly compared to the coffee plant.
Now that you know about these pet-friendly alternatives, you can create a lush and safe environment for both your plants and your furry friends. Remember, it's always essential to research any new plants before bringing them into your home, especially if your pets have a habit of chewing on plants.
Happy planting!
