Make sure you’re buying the succulent sempervivum first, as there are other plants that go by the name “hens and chicks.” This particular succulent also resembles a lovely rosette.
Like other succulents, Sempervivum requires little watering, and when the plant gets too big, the tiny plants are simple to remove and repot.
Sempervivum succulents are available here. No pesticides once again, and ideal for a leopard gecko tank!
Leopard geckos are harmful to what succulents?
Succulents such the Jade plant, Silver Dollar plant, Aloe vera, Snake plant, Kalanchoe, Pencil cactus, Crown of thorns, String of Pearls, Peyote, and Stonecrop should not be given to reptiles. However, depending on the variety, its harmful content may differ. One of the least toxic plants is stonecrop.
Go to the vet right once for your reptile’s safety if it exhibits symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or an erratic heartbeat after ingesting a hazardous plant.
The succulents that reptiles cannot eat are listed in the following table along with their scientific names:
Jade plant
- Crassula ovata is its scientific name.
- Common names include money plant and jade plant.
- native to: Mozambique and South Africa
- The Crassulaceae family
- Family: Crassula
Given that it resembles a small tree, this succulent frequently makes a stunning adornment. Jade plants grow easily in a room with no special conditions. It may also survive in dry areas.
Even though not all reptile species are toxic, the jade plant can be extremely dangerous to certain.
Silver Dollar plant
- Lunaria annua is its scientific name.
- Common names: Annual honesty, Silver Dollar plant
- Native to: Balkans and south-west Asia
- the Brassicaceae family
- the Lunaria genus
This flowering plant has unusual characteristics like paper-like stalks. In eight months, they attain their full potential. This plant has a 36-inch maximum height.
Unknown chemicals in this succulent may be dangerous to pets, including reptiles. Keep your reptile away from this one if at all possible.
Aloe vera
- Aloe barbadensis miller, scientific name
- Aloe vera, among other names
- Arabian Peninsula native
- The Asphodelaceae family
- Family: Aloe
Aloe vera, a widespread species of succulent, is a prominent element in cosmetic products. Due to its low maintenance requirements, the plant is simple to grow. Direct sunlight and well-drained soil are suitable conditions.
The only two reptiles that are not harmful to it are ball pythons and bearded dragons. With this plant, it is essential to avoid taking any chances.
Snake plant
- Dracaena trifasciata is its scientific name.
- Common names: Saint George’s sword, snake plant
- native to: Nigeria and West Africa
- the Asparagaceae family
- Family: Dracaena
One of the most resilient plants is thought to be this flowering plant. They can endure in low light and contribute to the cleanliness of the air in your home. With the use of leaf cuttings, they are easily multiplied.
If taken in high quantities, this plant may be poisonous to your reptile. It may result in gastrointestinal issues like vomiting and diarrhea.
Widow’s thrill
- Kalanchoe, scientific name
- Known as: The widow’s delight
- Originally from Madagascar
- Family: Kalanchoe
One of the first plants to be transported into space was this tropical plant variety. It produces several different vibrant flowers. Temperatures greater than 40 degrees Celsius are often necessary.
Kalanchoe is toxic to most animals and can upset a reptile’s digestive system. If ingested in high amounts, it can elevate heart rate.
Pencil cactus
- Euphorbia tirucalli is its scientific name.
- Common names: Indian tree spurge and pencil cactus
- indigenous to: Africa
- Euphorbiaceae family
- Family: Euphorbia
A little tree that thrives in dry environments is the pencil cactus. Several slender pencil-like stalks are among its distinctive characteristics. It can easily thrive in environments with little water and lots of light.
This plant, when hurt, releases a poisonous sap that can harm both people and other animals, including reptiles, by causing inflammation and stomach issues.
Crown of thorns
- Euphorbia milii is its scientific name.
- Common names: Christ plant and crown of thorns
- the Euphorbiacea family
Compact disc-shaped blooms are produced by the Crown of thorns. This succulent can survive in temperatures that are very high. It requires only minimal upkeep.
Its lengthy spines, however, can be dangerous to both people and animals. Additionally, it releases a poisonous sap that may upset your stomach.
String of pearls
- Senecio rowleyanus is its scientific name.
- Common Names: Bead or thread of pearls
- Originally from: South-West Africa
- The Asteraceae family
- Species: Curio
The String of Pearls plant is easily recognized thanks to its distinctive long branches made of beads. Its leaves have been modified to store water in dry environments. It can therefore survive for longer periods of time without water.
Both humans and most other animals are poisoned by this succulent. If ingested, it might result in nausea and diarrhea.
Peyote
- Lophophora williamsii is its scientific name.
- Known as: Peyote
- indigenous to Mexico
- the Cactaceae family
- The Lophophora genus
Native to Mexico, peyote is a flowering cactus without spines. It can survive and even thrive in the arid environment. It is frequently employed medicinally.
When consumed, it can be poisonous to reptiles. It includes unidentified poisons that, in the majority of animals, can have negative side effects.
Stonecrop
- Sedum, scientific name
- Known as: Stonecrop
- African and South American native
- Sedum, a genus
Outdoor gardens love these beautiful plants. Sedums don’t need much maintenance, so they can grow anywhere. They grow a variety of blooms that entice birds and insects.
They’re regarded as non-toxic. Sedums are not a good source of nutrition, thus it is not a good idea to feed them to your reptile.
Are leopard geckos safe to consume aloe vera plants?
Aloe vera is suitable for a vivarium.
It works well if a leo has any kind of shedding issue, such as burns.
You only need to lightly massage their skin.
Really, it’s beneficial for most creatures.
I once used it to one of my rescues who had suffered severe burns.
It expedites healing.
It is quite unusual for a gecko to consume plants.
The crickets attacking it will cause you the most trouble.
If not, your gecko will likely use it to aid in shedding.
Are live plants allowed in the tanks of leopard geckos?
Leopard geckos are happy in basic homes, but realistic terrariums with live plants, rocks, and driftwood make for spectacular presentations. Leopard Gecko terrariums can be adorned with readily accessible arid-adapted species including aloes, ox tongue, snake plants, and others.
Although, by lizard standards, leopard geckos are not particularly active, they should nevertheless be allowed as much space as possible. A 15-20 gallon aquarium may suffice for a single adult, but a 20 gallon (long style) tank is recommended. A pair or trio will fit in a 30-55 gallon terrarium.
Although they prefer the ground, leopard geckos will also use sturdy driftwood and rocks. To prevent lizards from tunneling below and being crushed, rocks and other heavy objects should always be put on the terrarium’s floor rather than on the substrate.
There should be several caves or hide boxes available, ideally on both the warmer and cooler sides of the terrarium. For more information, please visit “Humidity and “Temperature below.
Your terrarium ought to have a screen top since air movement is crucial for species that are adapted to arid settings.
Adult geckos have long been kept on sand in zoos and private collections, and neither environment has caused me any issues. The majority of pet guardians, however, prefer to err on the side of caution because reports of impactions caused by sand ingestion do occur occasionally. A useful substitute are large stones and pebbles that cannot be swallowed. To create the appearance of a semi-desert atmosphere, add some dried grass. In order to reduce sand intake, it is advisable to offer food in big bowls or in a separate enclosure if you decide to add sand.
Hatchlings hunt awkwardly and frequently consume sand. Until their skills advance, use washable cage liners, newspapers, or paper towels. If you’d like, adults can also be maintained in this way.
Leopard geckos and other nocturnal lizards obtain their vitamin D3 needs from their diet alone and do not require a UVB light source.
The air around you should be between 78 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit. You may maintain these temperatures at night with a ceramic heater or a red-and-black reptile “night light (these will also allow you to watch your gecko after dark). The placement of a below-tank heat mat or bulb should make one corner of the tank warmer (to 88 F) than the others.
If a thermal gradient (areas of differing temperatures) has to be established, large enclosures are required. By travelling from hot to cool locations, lizards can control their body temperature thanks to thermal gradients, which are essential to their wellbeing.
It is best to keep the substrate dry and the humidity low. If a cave stocked with damp sphagnum moss is not offered, shedding issues are likely. There should also be a dry hiding place provided.
Are succulents made of jade toxic?
One of the toxic members of the Crassula family is the jade plant (Crassula ovata). Given that this particular variety of jade plant may be harmful to animals, it is preferable to keep it in inaccessible locations. They differ from other members of the jade family like the Ripple Jade because of their destructive principles.
Our basic rule for houseplants is that research can go a long way toward ensuring that your family, pets, and houseplants all get along. Every month, on the first, we post on social media the two succulents that will come in the subscription box for that month. To see these postings, follow us on Facebook or Instagram. Then, check the ASPCA’s list of poisonous plants to see if the plants may cause an issue in your house. Simply gift or skip that month via your account page on our website if you believe they might.
To discover more about our second-generation nursery and succulent subscription, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
What are leopard geckos poisonous to?
Other frequent plants and seeds that are toxic to geckos include tomato plants, English ivy, oak trees, apricot pits, peach pits, pear seeds, and apple seeds. Make sure all plants in pet geckos’ habitats, including the vivarium and any spaces where they are permitted to roam, are safe by checking them twice.
Pros:
The plant that I think works best for leopard geckos is called Crassula ovata; you can check it out on Amazon.
The tiny house plant Crassula ovata, also called the jade plant, is a favorite among garden amateurs as a safe adornment. It won’t take up much room, so you may add it to your little aquariums. The Jade plant features spherical green leaves and sturdy stocky trunks similar to other common bonsai trees. It would provide a great climbing and resting area for your gecko on top of the plant.
It can also live for a very long time. In actuality, I have a number of acquaintances who were given Jade plants by their parents. Their grandparents passed it on to them as well. I can therefore guarantee that this plant may last as long as your leo.
It is the pinnacle of tough plants, in the end. The Jade plant’s best quality is that it thrives in the dry surroundings of your gecko’s tank. Living next to your leo is no problem because it requires little water and little humidity.
Cons:
Even though Crassula ovata could survive low light levels and wouldn’t require any special illumination, keeping it in a tank with no light coming through could cause the plant to become a little spindly.
Setup:
Moisture content: 30% to 50% tolerance for temperature: 30 to 50 F Needs watering every two to three weeks, with a weekly light misting. Any bright-ish area will do as lighting.
Aloe veraBest Popular Plant for Leos
You are aware of what an aloe vera is, I’m sure. Perhaps you already own one or have frequently encountered this amazing plant! This one is also available on Amazon.
Aloe vera is a member of the genus Aloe, which also includes numerous other species.
You can pick from a variety of sizes and shapes. Thus, it wouldn’t be difficult to accommodate one within your tank. Despite the fact that Aloe vera only produces orange-red flowers, certain species do. Pink Blush Aloe or Sunset Aloe are good choices if you want a tank with a more vibrant appearance.
Aloe vera is very well known for its uses in food and decorating. In the neighborhood flower shops, you would therefore have little trouble selecting one for your Leo.
More importantly, because they are tough plants that are sought-after succulents, they can survive in your gecko’s enclosure. As a consequence, you can choose the species to use to decorate your leo’s tank based on what you find most appealing.
Aloe vera can tolerate humidity and temperature in the tank, but it still need six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day in order to thrive. It can also get by with four hours of indirect light.
If your tank is located far from any natural source of bright light—which is not advised for your gecko anyway—this condition could be difficult. Even while it would need more work on your part, you can regularly expose the plant to an area outside the tank where it can get the light it needs.
Humidity: less than 40% Tolerance for temperature: 10 to 70F Watering Required: Once every three weeks in the summer and less in the winter. Light Needed: A bright area that can withstand direct sunlight.
Tillandsia spp.Very Versatile Plant for Leos
Tillandsia spp., a diverse genus of plants with unusual hues and forms, are frequently referred to as “air plants.”
Since Tillandsia are epiphytes, they obtain the majority of their nutritional needs from the air. As a result, it is the plant that can be grown in the most different ways. You can plant it anyplace in the tank if you already have a piece of driftwood or cork bark that you use as a hiding.
Furthermore, if you want your gecko’s enclosure to have a jungle feel, you can hang any of its numerous varieties on the sides or the back. Its slow growth is another issue to consider. If you don’t have enough time to give the plant special care, this may work to your benefit.
In retrospect, I’d want to provide a piece of advice based on my own knowledge. I advise choosing a species with silver foliage, such as this one on Amazon, when making your selection. They seem to handle the arid atmosphere better than the others, I’ve seen.
You must be aware that all Tillandsia species require a high humidity climate, which is bad for your leo if you want to preserve them. It is advised that you have enough time to remove the plant from the tank once every three days for a strong watering or once daily for a moderate misting.
Humidity: greater than 65% tolerance for temperature: 20 to 50F Needs weekly watering and a two-hour bath every three weeks. Location must be well-lit and shielded from the sun.
Epipremnum aureumBest Resilient Plant for Leos
Common Names: Golden Pothos or Devil’s Ivy Origin: Mo’orea in French Polynesia’s Society Islands
A flowering vine called Epipremnum aureum can be purchased on Amazon as well as at neighborhood flower shops.
Due to the yellow streaks on its green leaves, this plant has earned the nickname “Golden Pothos” among some people. But the majority of people, including me, have always called this plant “Devil’s Ivy.”
When I initially came upon this plant, I was intrigued by its name until a buddy explained what Devil’s Ivy meant. He added that in an area with little humidity and high temperatures, the plant can survive with less care.
Additionally, according to some hunters he spoke with, the plant’s hardiness makes it virtually impossible to kill. I was able to attest to the hardiness of this plant after utilizing it firsthand in my leo’s enclosure for a half a year.
In addition to this, I occasionally like to utilize this plant as the backdrop for my leo’s tank. When you wait and let it grow, it has a wide spread that can cover the back of the cage.
The calcium oxalate found in the leaves of Epipremnum aureum is known to be toxic to herbivorous animals. Your leopard gecko, on the other hand, is an insectivorous carnivore. Consequently, using this plant in your tank is safe.
After utilizing this in my cage, I have yet to observe any evidence that my leo chewed on the leaves. You can watch your reptile’s behavior before fully removing the plant from the tank if you are uneasy but still want to use the plant.
humidity range: 30% to 70% tolerance for temperature: 30 to 60F Needs weekly watering and daily misting. Bright, indirect lighting is required.
Euphorbia miliiBest Leo Plant for Desert Tank
You can buy the succulent plant Euphorbia milii right here on Amazon. Its foliage is broadleaf evergreen. It is ideal for larger tanks because its leaves can get quite enormous. So, if you choose this plant, I advise you to do so only if you have more space available.
Its vibrant pink and scarlet seasonal blooms are also something you can appreciate, and they’ll liven up your gecko’s environment. This plant prefers drier circumstances, therefore it will grow best in an enclosure with other succulents and cacti that all have a desert theme.
Near the soil line, Euphorbia milii frequently develops a thorny stem with side branches. Its common name is Crown of Thorns as a result. This could hurt your gecko if you are not careful. So, I advise you to either cover it with the substrate or prune this region as needed.
Humidity: less than 30% tolerance for temperature: 20 to 50F Watering Required: Every two weeks, with less during the winter. Three to four hours of direct sunshine per day in a highly sunny window are needed for lighting.
Schlumbergera bridgesii Best Leo Plant for Tropical Tank
Christmas cactus, Thanksgiving cactus, or Easter cactus are some of their common names. Brazilian origin
One well-known succulent is Schlumbergera bridgesii, often known as the Christmas cactus. If your leopard gecko is housed in a tank with a tropical theme, this is the best option.
The Christmas cactus requires a substrate that is not overly damp for proper care. As a result, the succulent can eventually dry out. Additionally, it takes up more room. It is therefore preferable to place it in the vast enclosure’s background.
You might decide against including Christmas cactus in your enclosure based on its common names. It doesn’t have thorns like your typical cacti, though. In actuality, the Christmas cactus has long, scaly leaves and no thorns. There is no need to be concerned because these leaves cannot harm your gecko.
I was lucky enough to see it grow in terms of aesthetics. I adored the pink blooms that the plant produced since they gave my leo’s tank more variety. Other varieties may have rounder leaves and white, red, or orange blooms. You can choose one by visiting this link on Amazon if you like one of these hues.
Over time, Schlumbergera bridgesii can become very large. This plant might not be for you if the only space in your leo’s tank is for it to move around.
Additionally, a tank with a superior drainage system and well-drained soil are required. You can choose from other plants on the list if you find this inconvenient.
Level of Humidity: 50 to 60% tolerance for temperature: 20 to 50F Watering Requirements: Weekly watering and daily light misting. Bright, indirect light is ideal, although low light levels are acceptable as well.
Lithops spp.Best Leo Plant for Small Tank
There are several species of plants in the genus Lithops that have just two large, intricately patterned leaves. Living Stones is the common term for this look. This plant may also produce flowers of various hues. This might increase the variety in your gecko’s aquarium.
You might decide against this plant if you’re looking for a useful plant that functions similarly to others on this list. Your leo won’t be able to hide or climb on this plant. Even as a backdrop, this is not acceptable. It gives itself up blatantly as an adornment.
The scale of this plant is what appeals to me the most, though. It may easily fit in any tank because it doesn’t go much taller than two inches. More of this would even enough for small tanks.
Living Stones are undoubtedly one of the strangest-looking plants I have ever seen in all the years I have experimented with various plants for my leo’s tank. If you are the quirky type, I strongly advise you to check it out by going to this page on Amazon.
Insufficient lighting in a tank located far from a window may result in lengthy, unappealing leaves. You might want to skip this plant if you can’t move the tank close to a window with sunshine.
Humidity: less than 40% tolerance for temperature: 30 to 40F Needs watering every two or three weeks. Light Requirement: It is best to choose a location that receives direct sunlight from the brightest window.