Creating a home filled with greenery doesn’t have to come at the expense of your pets’ safety. Some houseplants are not only stunning but also completely non-toxic to cats and dogs. Below are our favourite pet-safe plants that add life to any space while keeping tails wagging and paws safe.
1. Pilea Moon Valley (Pilea Mollis)
Overview:
Known for its quilted, textured leaves and bright green foliage, the Pilea Moon Valley brings visual interest to any interior. It’s a compact and easy-care plant perfect for desks or shelves.
Care Tips:
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Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves.
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Water: Keep soil slightly moist, but not soggy. Water when the top inch feels dry.
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Humidity: Appreciates moderate to high humidity—misting helps in drier climates.
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Pet Safety: Non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it ideal for pet households.
2. Chinese Money Plant (Pilea Peperomioides)
Overview:
Also called the “Friendship Plant,” the Chinese Money Plant features round, coin-shaped leaves that symbolize prosperity and good luck.
Care Tips:
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Light: Thrives in bright, indirect light. Rotate regularly for even growth.
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Water: Water when the top soil dries out; it dislikes sitting in water.
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Propagation: Easy to propagate from offshoots, perfect for sharing with friends.
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Pet Safety: Completely pet-safe and non-toxic.
3. African Violet (Saintpaulia Ionantha)
Overview:
With its velvety leaves and colorful blooms, the African Violet is one of the most beloved flowering houseplants.
Care Tips:
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Light: Prefers bright, filtered light. Too little light reduces blooming.
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Water: Use room-temperature water and keep leaves dry to prevent spotting.
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Soil: Requires light, well-draining soil; African Violet-specific mixes work best.
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Pet Safety: Non-toxic to cats and dogs, safe for homes with curious pets.
4. Blue Star Fern (Phlebodium Aureum)
Overview:
The Blue Star Fern is admired for its blue-green fronds and low-maintenance nature. It’s a resilient fern that thrives in typical indoor conditions.
Care Tips:
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Light: Prefers indirect or dappled light. Avoid strong sun exposure.
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Water: Keep soil evenly moist; do not let it dry completely.
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Humidity: Loves high humidity—ideal for bathrooms or kitchens.
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Pet Safety: Non-toxic and safe for pets.
5. Calathea Roseopicta (Rose-Painted Calathea)
Overview:
This striking plant showcases patterned leaves with pink and green hues. Its natural leaf movements make it a fascinating addition to any home.
Care Tips:
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Light: Thrives in medium to bright indirect light.
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Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
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Humidity: Needs high humidity to prevent leaf curling or browning.
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Pet Safety: Safe and non-toxic for cats and dogs.
6. Calathea Fusion White
Overview:
A rare and highly sought-after variety, the Calathea Fusion White displays marbled green, white, and lavender leaves that brighten any corner.
Care Tips:
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Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but tolerates lower light levels.
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Water: Maintain evenly moist soil; avoid using hard water.
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Humidity: Enjoys very high humidity—use a humidifier if possible.
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Pet Safety: Completely pet-friendly and non-toxic.
7. Cryptanthus Earth Star (Cryptanthus Bivittatus)
Overview:
This unique bromeliad forms star-shaped rosettes of striped leaves in shades of pink, red, or green. Its compact form makes it perfect for small spaces.
Care Tips:
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Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. More light enhances color intensity.
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Water: Keep soil lightly moist but well-drained.
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Temperature: Enjoys warmth; avoid drafts and cold air.
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Pet Safety: Non-toxic to pets, safe for tabletops and terrariums.
8. Episcia Cupreata ‘Silver’ (Flame Violet)
Overview:
A cousin of the African Violet, this plant boasts silver-green leaves and occasional small orange or red flowers. It’s both decorative and resilient.
Care Tips:
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Light: Enjoys bright, indirect light; too much sun can scorch leaves.
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Water: Keep soil consistently moist with room-temperature water.
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Propagation: Easily propagated from runners, similar to strawberry plants.
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Pet Safety: Non-toxic to pets.
9. Fishbone Cactus (Epiphyllum Anguliger)
Overview:
Also known as the “Zigzag Cactus,” this plant’s serrated, fishbone-shaped stems make it a fun and modern houseplant. It even blooms with fragrant flowers under the right conditions.
Care Tips:
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Light: Prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade.
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Water: Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings.
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Temperature: Loves warmth and humidity, similar to tropical environments.
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Pet Safety: Safe for both cats and dogs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing pet-friendly plants allows you to create a lush, natural environment without compromising your pets’ safety. These beautiful, non-toxic options are not only easy to care for but also add charm and texture to your home. Whether you prefer the bold leaves of a Calathea or the whimsical stems of a Fishbone Cactus, you can enjoy indoor gardening with peace of mind.