Key Takeaways
- Always check plant toxicity before bringing new plants into a home with pets or children.
- Keep toxic plants out of reach — use high shelves or hanging planters.
- Know the symptoms of plant poisoning so you can act quickly if ingestion occurs.
If you have a pet that likes to nibble, avoid these plants or keep them completely out of reach.
The “Big Bad” List
- Sago Palm: Extremely toxic. Can cause liver failure.
- Lilies (True Lilies): Deadly to cats. Even the pollen is toxic.
- Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane): Causes severe mouth swelling.
- Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily): Irritating, but not usually deadly (unlike true lilies).
- Philodendron: Contains calcium oxalate crystals. Mouth irritation.
- Pothos (Devil’s Ivy): Similar to Philodendron. Mild to moderate toxicity.
- Monstera Deliciosa: Mildly toxic. Causes drooling and vomiting.
- ZZ Plant: All parts are toxic. Wash hands after handling.
- Aloe Vera: The gel is good for humans, but the skin is toxic to pets.
- English Ivy: Foliage is more toxic than berries.
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