Keeping indoor plants can make your home feel calm and beautiful. But not all houseplants are safe for children or pets. Some have leaves, sap, or seeds that can cause serious health problems. Kids and animals often touch, chew, or play with houseplants, so choosing the right ones matters. Many popular plants that look harmless can cause vomiting, skin irritation, or worse. Parents and pet owners must stay informed before bringing any plant indoors. Knowing which plants are risky helps protect your home. You can still enjoy greenery while keeping your loved ones safe. This guide shares 14 common indoor plants to be careful with.
In this article, we’ll explain why these plants can be harmful and how to handle them safely. From common picks like peace lilies to lesser-known ones like monkshood, this list covers it all. Each plant is explained in simple words with clear warnings. You’ll also find tips on safe placement or alternatives when possible. If you're planning to start a home garden or already have one, take a few minutes to review these plant risks. A little awareness can prevent serious health issues for pets or children. Let’s take a closer look at each of these 14 plants that might be better left outside or placed with caution indoors.
1. Peace Lily
Peace lilies are popular indoor plants that bloom with elegant white flowers. While they improve air quality, peace lilies are toxic if eaten. For children and pets, chewing the leaves can cause swelling in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and nausea. The calcium oxalate crystals in the plant can irritate the throat and stomach. Even touching the plant's sap may cause mild skin irritation. It’s best to place peace lilies well out of reach or consider safer alternatives for pet-friendly homes.
2. Devil’s Ivy (Pothos)
Devil’s ivy, also known as pothos, is a low-maintenance plant found in many homes. It grows quickly and looks beautiful in hanging baskets. However, its leaves contain toxins that can harm children and pets. When chewed or eaten, it can lead to vomiting, drooling, and oral swelling. Cats are especially sensitive to this plant and may experience breathing difficulty. Place this plant where small hands and curious paws cannot access it.
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3. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Snake plants are loved for their sleek, upright leaves and low water needs. Despite being a good air purifier, this plant contains saponins, which are toxic if ingested. When pets or children chew on the leaves, they may suffer from nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. The sharp-edged leaves can also irritate the mouth or throat. Although not deadly, symptoms can be distressing. Keep this plant in bedrooms or offices that are off-limits to pets and toddlers.
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4. Bird of Paradise
The bird of paradise plant offers a tropical touch with its large leaves and bright blooms. While it adds beauty to living rooms and patios, it poses a health risk. The plant’s seeds and flower parts contain toxins that can cause drowsiness, vomiting, and nausea if ingested. It is not the most toxic plant, but its large size and low placement make it accessible. Always monitor its placement and prune dead flowers that may fall to the ground.
5. Philodendron
Philodendrons are classic indoor plants with heart-shaped or split leaves. They're easy to grow and thrive in low light. Unfortunately, their leaves and stems contain calcium oxalate, which is harmful if ingested. Children may suffer from mouth pain, drooling, and difficulty swallowing. Pets may experience vomiting and loss of appetite. Because of its trailing nature, it can be hard to keep out of reach. Wall-mounted planters are one way to keep it safer indoors.
6. Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)
Dumb cane is named for its effect on speech when chewed, causing temporary inability to speak. It contains toxins that burn the tongue, lips, and throat. The plant is attractive with its variegated leaves but dangerous if ingested. In children, it can cause swelling and difficulty breathing. In pets, the symptoms can be more severe due to their smaller size. Avoid placing this plant in rooms where children and pets play or rest.
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7. Asparagus Fern
Asparagus ferns are airy and delicate but hold hidden dangers. The small red berries they produce are toxic and may attract young children. Ingestion can result in vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Contact with the leaves may lead to skin irritation or allergic reactions. Despite its soft appearance, it should not be kept where pets or children roam. Consider safer decorative ferns as a substitute for this plant.
8. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
Rubber plants are stylish and often used in home offices or living rooms. While not highly toxic, they still contain sap that may cause mild reactions. Skin contact can lead to dermatitis or rashes, especially in sensitive individuals. Pets chewing the leaves might suffer from mouth irritation or vomiting. The plant grows tall, so trimming is often needed be sure to wear gloves while handling. Keep it in a corner that children or pets can’t easily reach.
9. English Ivy
English ivy is commonly used for its trailing vines and quick growth. It thrives in hanging baskets or wall planters but poses a risk to families with pets. Its leaves and berries contain toxins that can lead to stomach cramps, rashes, or weakness. Children are attracted to its playful vines and shiny leaves, increasing the chance of exposure. Consider choosing safer ivies like Swedish ivy if you want a similar look without the toxicity.
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10. Foxglove
Foxgloves are striking plants known for their tall spikes of bell-shaped flowers. Though beautiful, every part of the plant contains digitalis, a powerful heart-affecting toxin. Even small amounts can cause irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or vomiting. Children and pets are at high risk if they come in contact with this plant. Because of its severe effects, it’s best to keep foxglove strictly outdoors and far from foot traffic or play areas.
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11. Morning Glory
Morning glory vines bloom in vivid blue and purple flowers, making them attractive houseplants. However, their seeds contain alkaloids that mimic hallucinogens and are extremely toxic. Accidental ingestion by kids can lead to confusion, diarrhea, and hallucinations. Dogs and cats may suffer from weakness and tremors. Since the seed pods are easy to pull, children may play with them. Grow this plant outdoors or ensure it's fully out of reach indoors.
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12. Monkshood (Aconitum)
Monkshood, also known as wolfsbane, is one of the most toxic plants you can grow. Even touching it with bare hands can cause numbness and tingling. If ingested, it may result in life-threatening heart and nerve symptoms. While it’s mostly grown outdoors, some bring it indoors as a decorative piece. Avoid this plant entirely if you have children or pets. Always wear gloves and wash hands thoroughly if you handle it in any setting.
13. Horse Chestnut
Horse chestnut trees produce shiny brown seeds that resemble edible chestnuts. These seeds are poisonous and should not be confused with safe varieties. Children often mistake them for toys or snacks, making them especially dangerous. Ingesting horse chestnuts can cause severe digestive issues and even paralysis in large amounts. Even the bark and leaves have mild toxins. Avoid planting these near playgrounds or gathering areas.
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14. Angel’s Trumpet
Angel’s trumpet has large, trumpet-shaped flowers that hang dramatically from its branches. Despite its beauty, this plant is dangerously toxic. All parts contain alkaloids that affect the nervous system and can cause hallucinations, memory loss, or death. The scent may be pleasant, but even breathing in the pollen can cause irritation. It’s strongly advised to avoid this plant in any household with kids or pets, even as an outdoor potted plant.
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Keep Your Home Safe with Smart Plant Choices
Bringing greenery indoors is a great way to add life to your space, but safety should always come first. Children and pets are naturally curious and may touch or eat anything within reach. Many common plants can cause serious health problems if not handled with care. Learning which plants are risky can help you plan better and avoid accidents. Always research before purchasing a new plant for your home. If you already own a toxic plant, place it high up or in rooms not used by children or animals. Use gloves when trimming and wash your hands afterward. There are many pet- and child-safe plants available that still look great. Make smart choices and enjoy a safe, green home.