Choosing plants that are both pet-friendly and beneficial for the environment allows you to create a lush, green space that everyone can enjoy safely. Many popular houseplants and garden plants can be toxic to pets, but plenty of options add beauty and serve an eco-friendly purpose without harming your furry friends. Here’s a look at five plants that are safe for pets and help support a healthier environment.
Spider plants are an excellent choice for pet owners, as they’re non-toxic and known for their air-purifying qualities. They absorb carbon monoxide and other indoor pollutants, making them a natural choice for improving indoor air quality. Boston ferns are another pet-safe plant that’s both lush and environmentally friendly, as they add humidity to the air and help reduce dust. They’re also low-maintenance, thriving in indirect light and slightly damp soil.
For those with outdoor space, marigolds are a great addition to pet-friendly gardens. They’re non-toxic to animals and naturally repel certain pests, which means they can help protect other plants without the need for pesticides. Bamboo palms are ideal for pet-friendly households, as they’re non-toxic and known for their ability to filter out toxins. Finally, cat grass (wheatgrass) is a wonderful plant for both your indoor environment and your pets, particularly cats, who enjoy munching on it as a natural digestive aid.
Aloe vera is another fantastic pet-safe plant with multiple benefits for both your home and the environment. While the gel inside the leaves is soothing and often used for minor skin irritations (for humans only), the plant itself purifies the air by removing pollutants like formaldehyde. Just keep it out of reach of pets, as ingestion of the plant’s sap can cause mild stomach upset in cats and dogs. It’s low-maintenance and thrives in sunny spots, making it a great choice for any green space.
If you’re looking to add a splash of color, African violets are a pet-safe flowering option that brightens up indoor spaces without threatening furry friends. These small, vibrant flowers do well in moderate to low light and require minimal water, making them a beautiful, low-maintenance choice. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, African violets are known for releasing oxygen and contributing to a healthier indoor environment.
Herbs like basil, rosemary, and thyme are safe for pets and serve multiple purposes in the garden and kitchen. They’re perfect for indoor herb gardens or outdoor spaces, providing fresh cooking ingredients while attracting pollinators like bees. Basil, for instance, has natural pest-repellent properties, while rosemary and thyme release pleasant aromas and can create a sensory-friendly area for both pets and humans to enjoy.