There are two things we love in our homes: pets and plants. Both bring a burst of life and provide us with living species to care for and nurture. The problem is that many of these cannot exist in harmony, and you may find that the plants in your home are a hazard to your dog.
In a worst-case scenario, these plants can cause poisoning, seizures, or even death in your fur babies. Therefore, you must do your homework on which plants are safe to house alongside pets. Here are nine of the most beautiful dog-friendly plants.
1. Calathea Plant
The Calathea plant is an eye-catching perennial from Brazil that finds its way into many homes across the country thanks to its exotic appearance. A combination of wavy green leaves and a purple-toned underside draw attention and bring a tropical tone to your home.
These plants can be tricky to nurture, but with proper care, they complement a room perfectly. Place in fast-draining soil and keep away from direct sunlight. Only water when the top of the soil feels dry to the touch, and aim for a stable temperature of between 65 and 85 degrees.
2. Spider Plant
The Spider plant is a popular fixture in millions of homes thanks to its adaptability and ease of care. Besides the odd brown tip, few ailments affect this plant, and it will happily thrive in several different conditions.
Beginning life as tiny white flowers, the spidery arms eventually extend in green and variegated versions. This makes a great hanging basket option for pet-friendly homes.
3. Gloxinia
When your nearest and dearest are kind enough to give you a bunch of flowers, you want them to take pride of place in your home. Thankfully, the Gloxinia – a popular plant for gifting on Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day – is perfectly safe for your pets, so you can relax and enjoy your gift.
These plants grow to around 12 inches tall and bloom with large, velvety leaves and brightly colored bell-shaped flowers. An excellent centerpiece, the Gloxinia will thrive in indirect sunlight and consistent moisture.
4. Orchid
We can all appreciate the beauty of an orchid; still, very few of us know the incredible history of this plant. Found in all parts of the world, many experts believe the orchid was present before the continents separated, making it one of the oldest flowering plants in existence. The smallest orchids are just 2mm in diameter, while the largest can weigh a few hundred pounds.
With so many varieties on offer, you can pick the perfect accompaniment for your home without worrying about its impact on your canine. These plants are easy to look after but avoid too much water, or they could develop root rot.
5. Haworthia
This miniature succulent descends from South Africa and is among the easiest houseplants to care for and maintain. There is a range of Haworthias available; some of the most popular characteristics include tightly packed clusters of firm leaves and a dark green hue.
As a succulent, the Haworthia thrives in bright indirect light to direct sunshine, but they will tolerate a medium brightness much better than many other succulents. You’ll only need to water this plant every two to three weeks, and you can allow the soil to dry completely between watering sessions.
6. Chinese Money Plant
There’s no guarantee that the money plant will bring good luck. Still, it’s fun to grow, easy to care for, and, most importantly – safe for your dog. Popular in the art of Feng Shui, a positive aura lingers around the money plant and exudes vibrant energy into your home.
The Chinese Money plant remains a firm favorite in Norway, with its glossy leaves and aesthetically pleasing form. Ensure you give this plant bright light and allow it to dry between waterings.
7. African Violet
Sometimes it can be challenging to find a plant that is non-toxic to your pets and adds a splash of color to your home; that’s where the African Violet comes in. These colorful clusters come in shades of pink, purple, red, blue, and white, forming several bright blooms over a nest of leaves to add little bright notes to your home.
Keep their soil moist and place them away from direct sunlight, and these little flowers will thrive. Along with being low maintenance, the other benefit of the African Violet is that it remains at less than 12 inches, so it is ideal for brightening up any area, no matter what size your home is.
8. Boston Fern
The Boston fern – also known as the Sword fern – is a popular fern species that grows in many tropical locations around the world. And this plant doesn’t just look good; it offers several natural benefits too. It restores air moisture and acts as a purifying system to relieve sore throats, blocked noses, and dry skin.
This is an excellent plant for a hanging basket, and you won’t have to worry about your dog gaining access to it as it is totally pet safe and non-toxic.
9. Venus Fly Trap
If you’re looking for something a little different to add to your home, try the Venus Fly Trap, which is surprisingly low maintenance and safe for your canine to be around. Native to North and South Carolina, this beautiful plant is a carnivore with the ability to digest meat.
There’s so much to admire about the Venus Fly Trap, from the complex mechanism of its trapping system to the beautiful white flowers that bloom on it. Sit back, admire this impressive specimen at work, and enjoy your home’s natural bug-killing system.
