Some of your indoor plants aren’t safe if you have dogs or small children, which is a sad but inevitable revelation in the road of plant parenthood. Many popular houseplant genera are toxic in some form or another, whether mildly or severely. Others, far worse, can irritate the skin if handled too much.
The good news is that with a little forethought, you can figure out which hazardous houseplants to avoid, assess the risk to your pets and family, and yet have a lively and beautiful indoor plant collection.
Here are ten toxic houseplants that, while we love them, should be used with caution if your children or pets will have access to them. But first, a word of caution: “toxic” is a relative term, and the intensity of a reaction will depend on the degree of exposure (amount consumed), the plant species, and your pet’s specific characteristics. Some poisonous houseplants cause short-term symptoms (such as vomiting). Others irritate the skin, while others might have more serious, life-threatening consequences if swallowed in large quantities. This is by no means an entire list, and we strongly advise you to conduct additional study (ASPCA has a great database for pet owners).
Poisonous Houseplants for Pet Owners and Parents to Avoid
Starting with one of the biggest names, Philodendron is a vast genus of tropical plants with a wide range of growing habits, leaf forms, and colors that make it ideal for indoor use. Plants in this genus are somewhat harmful to humans, as well as to dogs and cats. Oral irritation, soreness and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing are all symptoms of exposure.
Because of the shape of the leaves, members of this genus, which is linked to the philodendron, are commonly referred to as Arrow-head vine. The symptoms of exposure are identical to those stated above for Philodendrons, despite the fact that it is only mildly poisonous.
The Zamioculcas Zamifolia, sometimes known as the ZZ Plant, is one of those “tough as nails” houseplants that can thrive in a variety of conditions, including low light. It also happens to be on the list of deadly houseplants, and all parts of the plant are poisonous to people and pets.
Sansevieria (also known as Snake Plant) is another toxic beauty that causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea when consumed.
Pets and youngsters looking for a flowery snack should avoid this tropical stunner with huge paddle-shaped leaves and colorful, exotic flowers. Fortunately, the poisonous parts are largely the flower and fruit, and the symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness are minor.
Despite being in the Asparagus genus (yes, like the vegetable! ), this plant is not edible. Although there are other species that go by the name Asparagus Fern, the ones typically used as indoor plants are poisonous, and contact with the plant can cause skin irritation.
The Schefflera genus contains some magnificent forms that make excellent medium-light floor trees. However, keep children and dogs away because ingestion can cause severe mouth irritation, profuse drooling, and vomiting.
Euphorbia, oh, Euphorbia. Members of this diverse genus (some plants resemble cactus, while others are herbaceous and hardy in the outdoors!) contain a white sap that causes severe skin irritation (itchy rash!) even after a brief contact. Internal irritation is caused by ingestion in a similar way.
If consumed, this typical Crassula genus member is toxic to dogs, cats, and people, producing vomiting, depression, and incoordination.
It may seem unusual that Aloe, which is widely appreciated and used for its therapeutic and skin-healing powers, is classified among dangerous houseplants. While the gel is edible, other portions of the plant can cause vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhea if consumed.
Even if it’s tempting to leave the aforementioned specimens out of your indoor plant collection, it’s necessary to think about your risk factors. Do you have little toddlers who might eat your plants on the floor? Is your cat fond of playing with and chewing on plants? Will your dog chew on the tree’s trunk? You might be able to lessen your risk by employing some excellent spatial planning, depending on your home, your creatures, and whatever plants you have.
- Hang hazardous houseplants out of reach of your pets and children with a plant hanger.
- Consult our list of pet-friendly indoor plants for ideas on which floor plants will be the most accessible to pets and children.
- Make use of your furniture: bookshelves, cabinets, and even the top of the refrigerator can be used to house plants that your dog or children can’t reach. Keep in mind that cats have the ability to reach even the most remote locations.
- Consider getting a mounted plant to keep them out of reach of pets and children.
Do you have any more plant-safety recommendations for pets and kids to share? Do you have any questions concerning your collection? Let us know in the comments!
What happens if dog eats ZZ plant?
Calcium oxalate is found in ZZ plants. If you’re unfamiliar with the word, it refers to the material that kidney stones are comprised of. Even though we can’t see it without a microscope, calcium oxalate is quite sharp. Unfortunately, this chemical can be found in all parts of the plant. It consists of roots, seeds, and leaves, among other things.
When a ZZ plant comes into contact with the skin, it can irritate and burn. It is imperative that you wash it off as quickly as possible and avoid touching your eyes. Mucous membranes will be affected in the same way. Anyone who eats any part of a ZZ plant will experience acute pain and swelling in their mouth. The discomfort will cause a child to spit out the plant.
A small child who takes a portion of the plant, on the other hand, will endure stomach pains, cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea. The severity is determined on the amount of plant consumed. The symptoms normally only last a few hours and are easily controllable.
The calcium oxalate will have the same effect on your dogs. They will receive skin or eye discomfort if they brush up against the plant. Additionally, if your pets consume a ZZ plant, they can experience food poisoning symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea.
How poisonous is a ZZ plant?
The ZZ plant (or Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a fantastic choice if you’re seeking for a hardy, low-light home plant. However, you may be concerned about if ZZ plants are dangerous and whether they are suitable for your family and pets.
Is it possible for a ZZ plant to be poisonous? Yes, both humans and pets are poisoned by ZZ plants. When consumed, ZZ plants can cause skin and eye irritation, as well as stomach discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. With a few basic steps, you can securely share your home with a ZZ plant.
There was a lot of incorrect information about ZZ plants a few years ago. Many people thought the plant was so toxic that it may cause cancer and that the only way to handle it properly was with gloves on. This isn’t correct.
Is ZZ plant poisonous to touch?
The drought-tolerant ZZ plant is a great addition to low-light areas in homes and offices, but it is poisonous in all parts. Keep it away from children and pets, and if you must handle it, wash your hands or use gloves. Because this plant tolerates neglect, you won’t have to interact with it often.
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings and grow in bright to low light.
Are Calatheas pet friendly?
All day long, the psychedelic Spider Plant gives us 70s sensations! The slender, palm-like leaves of this green beauty won’t injure dogs, even if they do like a naughty nibble now and then. It’s also one of the most simple plants to maintain. Place it somewhere bright but out of direct sunlight and watch it develop before your eyes. It also benefits from weekly irrigation to maintain a regular moisture level.
Calathea
Calathea is also known as the Prayer Plant or the Calathea. This is due to the fact that when the sun shines on its leaves, they burst into life and close up as the sun sets. Because of its intriguing foliage and calming character, it’s one of the most popular pet-friendly plants. It’s also simple to maintain. Once you get into the habit of watering your lovely botanical once a week, it will flourish.
Are spider plants toxic to dogs?
The spider plant, also known as the ribbon plant or airplane plant, is non-toxic to cats and dogs and can withstand a wide range of light, moisture, and soil conditions.
Is ZZ plant cancerous?
The fact that all portions of the plant are poisonous is one of ZZ’s biggest disadvantages. In fact, there were incorrect reports in the 2010s that ZZ was so toxic that it caused cancer and that people should wear gloves when handling it. What is the truth? It’s poisonous, but it’s not malignant. To avoid skin irritation, don’t consume it, keep it away from nibbling dogs and excessively curious children, and always wash your hands after handling it.
What are the benefits of ZZ plant?
Do you want to be healthier, happier, and perhaps even smarter? All you need to do now is add some plants!
With Americans spending over 90% of their time indoors, it’s more critical than ever to keep indoor air clean and fresh. Because of today’s advanced building construction methods, the average air exchange rate has decreased dramatically, making this time spent indoors potentially dangerous. The combination of reduced ventilation and the brew of harmful air pollutants is not ideal, but indoor plants are an excellent solution to this problem.
Plants in the home and office have been shown to provide a variety of benefits, including making you happier and healthier. According to a 2015 study published in Environmental Health Perspectives, cognitive function scores are considerably enhanced in buildings with lower-than-average air pollution. Plants may purify the air by absorbing harmful poisons and chemicals in the air and creating oxygen. Indoor plants have also been proved to:
If you want to increase the quality of your indoor air, these are the top three indoor plants to buy:
- Areca Palm (Chrysalidocarpus (Dypsis) lutescnes) – The areca palm, also known as Chrysalidocarpus (Dypsis) lutescnes, grows well in interior situations with direct light. It’s a favored indoor plant because of its capacity to eliminate airborne pollutants by transpiring rapidly.
- Sansevieria trifasciata, often known as Mother-in-Tongue, Law’s is a popular indoor plant that is frequently seen in interior plantscapes. They are nearly indestructible and can retain their vivid variegation in low-light conditions. Formaldehyde, Toluene, and Xylene are all removed from the air by Mother-In-tongue. Law’s
- The Zamioculcas zamiifolia is one of the most hardy indoor plants available. They are able to survive in both low and high light environments. Toluene and Xylene are removed from indoor air by the ZZ plant.
How long does a ZZ plant live?
The leaves make up 91% of this plant, and each leaf may persist up to 6 months in terrible conditions, which is why the ZZ plant can survive for up to 4 months without water in low light.
Because this plant is still relatively new to home plant owners, it is commonly seen to live for 5-10 years, however it is suspected to live much longer.
Because these plants prefer to dry out between waterings, they only need to be watered once every 1-2 weeks.
It also requires little to no maintenance, but fertilizer may be beneficial from time to time.
Should ZZ rhizomes be exposed?
Due to dirt being washed away from regular watering, the root bulb or rhizome of a ZZ plant might become exposed over time. If your ZZ plant becomes root-bound over time, the roots may become exposed. An exposed rhizome/root bulb isn’t always indicative of a sick plant.
If you water your ZZ plant from the top, the roots may become exposed. When you water your plant, some soil is carried away from the soil surface. You can avoid this by watering your plant from the bottom or adding a little water at a time.
It’s also a symptom that your plant has become rootbound and has to be repotted if the roots become exposed. Slide your plant out of the pot gently and look at the roots to determine if they are securely curled around the pot’s inside. If necessary, repot to promote healthy development.
Fill the pot to the level of the base of the stalks when planting your ZZ plant, just covering the rhizome with soil. Avoid potting too deeply it’s best to leave a little root bulb visible than to bury the stems, which can lead to stem rot.
Does ZZ plant release oxygen at night?
So, while houseplants may not be able to keep up with the constant flow of air in our houses, does it mean they aren’t beneficial to our health? Definitely not!
Plants produce oxygen into the air, but many people are unaware that they also increase the humidity level in the space around them. Increased humidity levels aid in the prevention of peeling skin and lips, as well as dry noses and throats, and make our homes more comfortable in general.
Houseplants also appear to have a positive impact on mental health. Bringing nature indoors has been shown in a number of studies to boost productivity and memory retention, reduce stress, and shorten recovery time following medical treatments.