Whenever I find myself in a house full of lush greenery, I get a serious case of what I call “plant envy.”
There’s just something about a room filled with thriving plants that seems almost magical—it’s like nature is decorating your home while cleaning up the air you breathe.
Besides, who would not want an oxygen bar at home that doubles as impressive décor?
Nonetheless, it can be a nightmare to select plants for those of us with pet companions. Just one gesture and Mr. Whiskers’ life will be cut short by this peace lily.
After combing through some research, here is a list of 10 amazing air-purifying and beautiful plants that are safe for your pets. In case you’re getting involved in botany, double-check the plant tags because better safe than sorry!
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum Comosum)
Meet spider plants if you have ever doubted your ability to grow plants from scratch.
Not only does it overlook periods of forgetful watering on your side but also combats indoor air villains – formaldehyde and xylene among others.
Mine is happily holding onto my bookshelf, reminding me daily it is still alive even though winters come too harsh for most plants. It may be magic.
Dwarf Date Palm (Phoenix Roebelenii)
This palm has been seen both in posh living rooms and sun-drenched gardens–it’s simply unbeatable when it comes to filtering out such air nasties as benzene. It acts as an efficient filter.
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis Exaltata ‘Bostoniensis’)
With its soft look, Boston ferns have made themselves cozy inside homes turning them into mini indoor jungles over time. Also, they eat formaldehyde straight from the atmosphere.
Areca Palm (Dypsis Lutescens)
With golden stems pointing upwards, the Areca palm can freshen up the air just as its leaves do.
Moth Orchids (Phalaenopsis spp.)
Orchids are the prima donnas of the plant world, but Moth Orchids cause no drama for your cats.
They are safe to bite on since they have been turning a lot of animals into vegetarians for ages and you know home is where you find your pet chewing.
Banana (Musa Oriana)
Yes! A banana plant can be much more than just a fruit-bearing tree – it helps in fighting formaldehyde also. Additionally, it’s a paradise ambiance.
Kimberly Queen Fern (Nephrolepis Obliterata)
This fern is the definition of elegance. It can either spruce up any room inside the house or welcome guests from your porch with its green fronds.
Lilyturf (Liriope Spicata)
A garden comes alive when Lilyturf finds its way there bringing bursts of color into gardens making them look stunning all while keeping the air pure and cats happy.
Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea Seifrizii)
This palm is perfect for those who are not born gardeners since it can withstand low light levels and acts as an air purifier too.
Broadleaf Lady Palm (Rhapis Excelsa)
It brings elegance to every room owing to its sleek tropical vibe. However, it attracts pests like nothing else.
Barberton Daisy (Gerbera Jamesonii)
It is almost unreal this daisy being so cute makes any space alive with its bright blossoms.
Dendrobium Orchids (Dendrobium spp.)
Simply put, Dendrobium oozes nothing but wow in any place because it’s amazing!
Do you want that beautiful, lush indoor jungle? You might be scared of a pet apocalypse with your furry overlords.
No worries, my fellow flora enthusiasts! Having in mind that one leaf away from chewing and becoming an emergency vet visit for us all, I have found a valuable source of pet-friendly plants.
For a fresher list than the sunlighted fiddle leaf fig plant always consult ASPCA. Here are some plants to consider so you won’t worry more about your furballs:
- Gloxinia – Expensive looking but not dangerous.
- African Violet – Tiny and almost cat-proof.
- Baby Tears – Too adorable, yet not harmful.
- Venus Fly Trap – It consumes bugs exclusively, no cats or dogs are on its menu.
- Calathea – As dramatic as it seems but safe too.
- Friendship Plant – Because everyone and even your cat needs a friend.
- Polka Dot Plant – Spots before your eyes? That’s okay!
- Peperomia – Live wire without any danger to pets.
- Mosaic Plant – One canvas painted by the artist. There is no need for museum tickets.
- Bromeliad – Pets-approved bromance.
- Ponytail Palm – like whipping hair only better because it’s safe.
- Purple Waffle Plant- tastes delicious but don’t eat. Just look at it.
- Royal Velvet- Best for pets who deserve royal treatment.
- Haworthia- It appears easier than it actually is.
Now let’s get back to the constant debate about indoor air quality: should we plant or not? Here’s what you need to know.
Air purifiers:
Pros: They clean the air just like a vacuum cleaner does. These are perfect when you can’t see pollen or dust allergens floating in the air or the smell of fried food from last week’s dinner.
Cons: The high costs involved and the fact that they are more like a paperweight than decoration.
Plants:
Pros: They make the place green and they also produce good vibes and fresh air.
Cons: So, an air purifier is not going to be replaced by them.
I mean, some of them can do a little bit of cleaning in the area but most of them are just for display purposes as opposed to health issues while others may turn out to be a salad bar for your inquisitive pet.
Lastly, here is a quick toxicology rundown because of science:
• Formaldehyde (Yes it’s in your tissues and towels…gulp!) – can cause anything from scratchy throats to severe lung problems
• Benzene (It’s everywhere from your detergents to smoke emanating from your candles) – could either give you a headache or knock you out
• Xylene (Think car exhausts and leather sofas) – symptoms range from slight irritation to major organ damage
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In conclusion, people should know that there are so many types under this subject since it involves scientific names.
You double-check them before leaving home like you check if you have taken all needed mobile phone accessories, right? Keep their tails wagging and whiskers moving safely through the green paradise!