Houseplants bring life, color, and fresh air into our homes — but not all leafy companions are safe for everyone. Some popular houseplants can be toxic to children, pets, or even adults if touched or ingested. That’s why it’s important to know which plants to keep out of reach or remove entirely, especially if you have curious toddlers or furry friends who love to explore (and nibble).
Below, we explore seven common indoor plants that pose risks, why they can be dangerous, and safe alternatives you can grow instead.
1. Jade and Other Crassulaceae Family Succulents
Many succulents seem ideal for indoor life because they’re hardy and attractive — but some members of the Crassulaceae family can be toxic when ingested by people or pets.
Why they’re risky:
Jade plants and similar succulents contain compounds that can lead to:
- Vomiting
- Gastrointestinal irritation
- Lethargy
Animals — especially dogs and cats — may chew on fleshy leaves out of curiosity, which makes these succulents more dangerous than their cute appearance suggests.
Safe swaps:
Instead of jade, try pet-safe succulents like burro’s tail (Sedum morganianum) or zebra cactus (Haworthia fasciata) — both look great and are less harmful if accidentally sampled.
2. Nightshade Family Plants (Including Poisonous Berries)
The nightshade family includes many ornamental varieties that some gardeners like for their bright berries or flowers — but these attractants can make them more dangerous.
Why they’re risky:
Nightshade plants contain alkaloids that affect the nervous system. Ingestion can cause:
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Severe reactions in children or pets
Even small amounts of nightshade berries can be toxic.
Safe swaps:
If you want colorful indoor greenery, choose non-toxic flowers such as African violets or wax begonias.
3. Oleander
Oleander is infamously toxic — perhaps one of the most dangerous ornamental plants you can bring indoors or keep nearby. Although more common outdoors, oleander sometimes appears in decorative arrangements.
Why it’s risky:
All parts of the plant — leaves, flowers, and stems — contain cardiac glycosides that can cause:
- Heart irregularities
- Digestive distress
- Nervous system issues
Even touching oleander followed by touching your face or food can cause problems.
Safe swaps:
Instead of oleander, try roses, snapdragons, or marigolds, which provide blooms without the risk.
4. Dieffenbachia and Other Aroids
Dieffenbachia, commonly known as dumb cane, and many other plants in the aroid family (like philodendrons and monsteras) are common indoor favorites — but they come with hidden risks.
Why they’re risky:
These plants contain calcium oxalate crystals. If chewed or ingested:
- It can trigger burning, swelling, and irritation of the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- Severe pain in children or pets
The irritation can be so bad it temporarily affects speech — hence the name dumb cane.
Safe swaps:
Consider safer foliage plants like parlor palms or peperomias, which add greenery without the same level of risk.
5. Lilies
Lilies are stunning, and their scent can add a lovely dimension to your home. But for pets — especially cats — they can be deadly.
Why they’re risky:
Even small amounts of lily pollen or petals can cause renal (kidney) failure in cats. Dogs are also sensitive but typically less so than cats. For households with animals, lilies are best avoided entirely.
Safe swaps:
Choose african daisy, wax flowers, or sunflowers for brightly colored blooms that won’t pose the same danger.
6. Orchids — Mostly Safe but Caution Still Matters
Orchids themselves are generally not among the most dangerous houseplants, but they do appear on some lists of plants to avoid near pets because of fertilizers and chemical residues that may be used in care.
Why caution is needed:
Orchid leaves and roots are not typically toxic, but if a pet chews leaves or digs in potting media treated with harmful substances, there could be risk of minor stomach upset.
Safe practice:
Keep orchids out of reach and avoid chemical fertilizers if you have pets that might get into plant pots.
7. Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are beautiful flowering shrubs often brought inside for decorative purposes — but they contain cyanogenic glycosides that can be a problem.
Why they’re risky:
Ingestion of hydrangea leaves or flowers can lead to:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Respiratory distress
For curious pets or toddlers, even accidental chewing can cause issues.
Safe swaps:
Instead of hydrangeas indoors, try pet-friendly flowering plants like zinnias, snapdragons, or nerines.
How to Keep Your Home Both Green and Safe
You don’t need to give up plants entirely to have a safe space. With thoughtful choices, careful placement, and education, you can enjoy beautiful greenery without unnecessary risk.
Tips for Safer Indoor Planting
• Place toxic plants out of reach
High shelves or hanging baskets are better than low tabletops if a plant is mildly irritating but you still want to enjoy it.
• Know your plant’s toxicity
Before buying, check whether a plant is considered toxic to children or pets. Trusted sources like ASPCA or gardening guides can help.
• Choose pet-safe species
Many houseplants are non-toxic and still provide beauty and air-purifying benefits.
• Teach curious children not to touch or eat plants
Education goes a long way in keeping little explorers safe.
Pet-Safe and Kid-Friendly Plant Alternatives
If you want to swap out risky plants entirely, consider these friendly favorites:
- Spider plant – hardy and safe
- Boston fern – lush foliage without danger
- Parlor palm – elegant, non-toxic
- African violet – blooms safely
- Peperomia – great foliage variety
These species add beauty without the worry.
Final Thoughts
While plants make great companions in the home, it’s important to match your choices with your household’s needs. Some indoor plants may be common and beautiful, but certain species can pose real health risks if touched or ingested — especially by curious kids and pets.
By identifying the ones to remove or relocate, and choosing safer alternatives, you can enjoy a thriving indoor garden that’s both beautiful and safe for the entire family