Pet-friendly houseplants
Bringing plants into your workspace is one of the easiest ways to upgrade your home office and create a healthy tranquil working environment. However, many common species of houseplants are toxic to animals. This clarity and calm will be undone if youâre constantly watching your pets to make sure they donât eat the greenery. Weâve put together a list of the top pet-friendly plants for your home officeâso you can spruce up your workplace without having to worry about your furry friends.
The plants to avoid for pets
Before getting into the details of pet-safe houseplants, here are a few you should definitely avoid: Peace Lilies, Ivy, Dieffenbachia, Pothos, Jade, Aloe Vera, and ZZ Plantsâall of these are toxic to cats and dogs. When ingested this can lead to mouth irritation, diarrhea, vomiting, and in some cases can be fatal.
If youâre not sure whether a houseplant is toxic to cats and dogs, keep your greenery out of reach with hanging baskets, or try using plant stands and wall planters.
Calathea: the best for beautiful leaves
One of the most attractive nontoxic indoor plants is the Calathea. With its eye-catching foliage, this beauty definitely stands out from the crowd. Make sure to find a shaded spot for your Calatheaâdirect sunlight can cause the striped patterns across its leaves to fade.
True palms: the best for making a statement
If youâre looking for bigger pet-safe houseplants, palms are the perfect option. Kentia, Bamboo, Areca, Ponytail, and Parlor palms are all nontoxicâgiving you plenty of varieties to choose from. The elegant fronds of palm leaves will add a touch of style to your space.
Spider plant: the best for clean air
Spider plants are one of the best air-purifying plants safe for dogs and cats. And just as wellâthey send out dangling spiderettes (the cute name for baby spider plants) that hang from the main plant, and look very enticing to curious pets.
Cast iron plant: the best for easy maintenance
Once a Victorian-era favorite, the aspidistra (or cast iron plant) has faded from the spotlight, but we believe it's time for a resurgence! This nearly indestructible, low-light-loving plant is not only easy to care for but also completely safe for your furry friends. Its glossy leaves and occasional purple flowers bring a touch of elegance to any space and peace of mind for pet owners.
Maranta: the best for inner peace
Transform your workspace into an oasis of calm with the stunning Maranta. The prayer plantâs colorful oval-shaped leaves fold together at night, as if in prayer. Best of all? This plant is nontoxic to dogs and cats, so you wonât have to worry about your furry friends getting sickâplace one of these near your desk and feel the stress slip away.