thegirlwithashovel

Some people want houseplants for the added green, some people want them for their air purifying qualities. And some people just like the look of them. But today we’re going to focus on those people who love the smell of their houseplants! Here’s a list of the top 10 fragrant houseplants, along with a few tips on how to keep them alive!

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

Fragrant Houseplant #1: Lavender – Lavandula

Probably one of the easier fragrant plants to grow, lavender has many different beneficial properties. Not only is the scent soothing to aid in falling asleep, but it is also a natural bug repellent! Just make sure that it gets adequate sunlight and moderate water. For info on how to care for this plant, check out my post, Indoor Lavender Plant Care!

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #2: Roses – Rosa

Roses come in all shapes and sizes. When choosing and indoor rose, choose a smaller variety so that it won’t try to take over the entire room! Also, if space is limited, consider purchasing a climbing rose and planting it against a trellis just outside of your window. This will allow you to crack open your window at night for some cool air, as well as the lovely smell of roses.

Check out this miniature fragrant rose here!

Fragrant Houseplant #3: Lemon Balm – Melissa officinalis

This is a wonderfully fragrant plant that, like lavender, also has many different beneficial properties. It can also tolerate less light conditions, however it does like consistent waterings. Don’t let it sit in water, but do try to keep it a bit more moist.

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #4: Gardenia – Gardenia jasminoides

Gardenias smell amazing, but are one of the harder houseplants to keep alive indoors. Generally, they like to be in warm, sunny locations. They also like to be in well-drained soil that is given the chance to dry out just a touch between waterings, but also make sure to keep the leaves dry when watering. Gardenias also like humidity, so either place in a sunny bathroom, or keep it humid with a tray of pebbles and water nearby (this will increase the nearby relative humidity). This can also be planted outside near a window to draw the scent inside, or planted outside and the flowers used in a floral bouquet that will bring the wonderful smell indoors!

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #5: Orchid – Orchidaceae

One of our tropical fragrances, the smell of orchids have become quite popular lately. They are also wonderfully compact plants, and they can usually be encouraged to re-bloom for twice the amount of sweet-smelling flowers each year. Just make sure that it gets enough sunlight and that it stays warm.

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #6: Citrus Plants – Rutaceae

All citrus plants have that distinct, tangy scent that freshens up any indoor space. There are also quite a few dwarf varieties that are becoming available to those who want anything from lemons, to tangerines, to grapefruit in their home!

Check out this indoor orange tree!

Fragrant Houseplant #7: Honeysuckle – Lonicera

When looking for an indoor honeysuckle, make sure to purchase a dwarf variety, or soon it will be taking up way too much space. Just like the roses, this can also be a good option to grow just outside the window and allowed to reach its full size outdoors where the scent can flow in at night.

Find dwarf seeds here, or an outdoor plant here!

Fragrant Houseplant #8: Valerian – Valeriana officinalis

This was a new plant to me and I’ve loved reading up on it! Valerian has many different benefits, ranging from its sleep-inducing vanilla scented flowers to its roots that can be used as a mild sedative. This is a very good plant to have around! It does require a bit more attention indoors, however, as it needs at least 6 hours of sunlight each day and also needs a lot of watering.

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #9: Hoya – Hoya carnosa

Hoya is another one of the easier indoor plants to take care of. While they do like morning sunlight, they prefer more indirect light. The thicker, waxy leaves can also do well with a little bit of neglect and don’t need as much constant watering. The flowers also produce a nice, sleep-inducing fragrance that is perfect for placing in a bedroom.

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #10: Jasmine – Jasminum

Make sure that you buy actual jasmine (Jasminus), and not the fake jasmine (Philadelphus). Both smell great and do well as houseplants, but only the real jasmine contains the sedative properties that are great for inducing sleep through its fragrance, as well as being used for tea. One benefit to jasmine is that it can be planted in a soil-less potting mix, but it does require a higher level of sunlight. But the added attention is definitely worth it when you can fall asleep to the wonderful, sweet fragrance at night.

Find it here!

That’s my list of fragrant, indoor plants! Feel free to comment below if there are any others that you love! And also feel free to ask any questions as well. I hope that we can all benefit from having some of these wonderful fragrant plants in our homes!

Happy Digging!

So after I did a post for small interior plants, I figured that I should do one about large interior plants. Unlike my tiny apartment, some of us are lucky and have wonderful, large rooms. And large rooms are perfect to add something that really makes a statement in the style that you want. These indoor plants are sure to grab people’s attention and will liven up any room fast!

Note: You can find many of these plants in smaller versions, but given adequate light, water, time, and a big enough pot, they will be able to reach their full mature size.

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

Large Indoor Plant #1: Split-leaf Philodendron – Monstera deliciosa

The Split-leaf Philodendron, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, has large, beautiful leaves. When fully grown, these leaves are often cut and used in artwork, or even floral arrangements. The distinctive look of this plant is sure to add texture to your space.

Split Leaf Philodendron – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #2: Dracaena – Dracaena spp.

There are many different types of dracaena that will all grow rather large if given proper care. The ‘Janet Craig’ dracaena and the ‘Cornstalk’ dracaena are especially suited and sold for their larger size. Just make sure that they don’t get too much light or water, as this can easily damage your plant.

Dracaena – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #3: Areca Palm – Dypsis lutescens

A long-time favorite, this is the classic indoor palm tree. Long, arching branches will look great in an style room, from cozy and cluttered, to minimalistic and modern. This palm just plain looks great anywhere!

Areca Palm – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #4: Fiddle-leaf Fig – Ficus lyrata

The Fiddle-leaf Fig has also been a big hit lately. With twisted, fiddle-shaped leaves and a more upright form, there is definitely something eye-catching about this plant. Make sure to keep it in once place, however, as being a ficus it doesn’t like to move around too much, as well as doesn’t like any warm or cold drafts.

Fiddle-leaf Fig – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #5: Flamingo Lily – Anthurium andraeanum

This plant is commonly sold as a smaller, younger plant. However, given enough time it can grow to be quite the large bush with beautiful, long leaves and flowers. One of the best ways to get this little guy to beef up is to slowly increase the size of the pot. Always make sure that it’s got a bit of wiggle room for its roots to grow, which will then ensure that the leaves will have the needed support to also grow larger.

Flamingo Lily – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #6: Weeping Fig – Ficus benjamina

Another popular tree from the ficus family, the Weeping Fig can get quite large if given the room to grow. However, make sure that it, like the Fiddle-leaf Fig, is put in a draft-free area and isn’t moved around. If put under stress, the Weeping Fig is likely to start shedding all of its leaves and eventually die (believe me, I know this from experience!) So take special care to pamper this big guy.

Weeping Fig – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #7: Ponytail Palm – Beaucarnea recurvata

I love this palm for its unique long leaves that really do resemble a ponytail! It is also known as the Elephant’s Foot palm as it has a large circular mound where it comes out of the soil. Definitely a unique plant, this palm does very well indoors and can grow as an outdoor tree in warmer climates.

Ponytail Palm – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #8: Snake Plant – Sansevieria trifasciata

While there are some smaller varieties of Snake Plant, most of them are considered large. I’ve found that Snake Plant will grow to its mature height (in wonderfully tall, modernistic lines), and then it will start to grow offshoots in either direction. So the larger the pot, the more full your snake plant will eventually be. This is perfect for some people as it will not continue to grow taller, but rather spread out. Put it in rectangular pots and it will add tons of sleek, sharp lines for your space.

Snake Plant – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #9: Umbrella Tree – Schefflera actinophylla

Also simply called Schefflera, this is also one of those plants that are commonly sold as a very small houseplant. But given time and care, it can grow to be a fairly large tree. Just be sure to be patient and continually increasing its pot size and you will soon be rewarded with a very full, leafy indoor tree.

Umbrella Tree – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #10: Bamboo – Bambusoideae

While not commonly thought of as an indoor plant, this is a great one for long, rectangular pots (just like the Snake Plant). Due to its weedy tendencies a lot of people shy away from this guy, but that’s exactly what makes it perfect for the indoors! It is kept in its individual container, and its fast-growing tendencies make it easy to wait for. And make sure to buy a bamboo that will do well with the light that you have in the particular space.

Bamboo – Get it here!

Well there’s my list of top 10 large houseplants! I know that having one (or more) of these guys will not only green up and add life to any space, but will also give you tons of added benefits to your life. So if you’re lucky enough to have the space, enjoy these awesome plants!

Happy Digging!

Not all of us have the luxury of extra space in our homes. This is one of the reasons why people don’t have houseplants… they feel like they don’t have the space for them! But here’s a list of 15 indoor plants that are perfect for small spaces. And don’t worry, I specifically chose plants that don’t just start small, but they’ll stay small! No need to move them to bigger and bigger pots. Nope, these really are small indoor plants!

Small Indoor Plants #1: Peperomia – Peperomia pellucida

This is a small, compact plant with semi-waxy leaves. It is very efficient in purifying the air, and is also an easy-to-care-for houseplant. Just make sure that it doesn’t get overwatered and the soil is allowed to dry between waterings.

Small Indoor Plants #2: Devil’s Ivy (Pothos) – Epipremnun aureum

I can’t say it enough how much I love Devil’s Ivy! This plant does well in low-light conditions and is hard to kill. It can do well being moist, but can also handle a bit of drying out. Left in a pot, it will continue to grow along the ends. These can simply be cut to desired length with a pair of scissors and the excess can either be tossed, or planted back into the pot for a thicker, bushier vine! For care information for this plant, check out my post Pothos Vine Care!

Small Indoor Plants #3: String of Pearls – Senecio rowleyanus

This is a great substitute for Devil’s Ivy. While the one can deal with extra water, String of Pearls is for those who tend to neglect their houseplants more often. It needs to dry out between waterings, or else it will die. And don’t worry, all of those little pearls are filled with water! And just like the Devil’s Ivy, this too can be trimmed at the ends and re-potted for more little plants! (just wind a little row around the top of a new pot and they will start to root!!!)

Small Indoor Plants #4: Spider Plant – Chlorophytum comosum

Spider plants are great for placing on countertops, side tables, or even hanging. They tend to grow to a full, bushy plant, then stop growing from there and instead send off their little ‘pups’. These small offshoots can either be left on for aesthetics, or they can be trimmed off and re-potted for more of these wonderful little plants! For care information for this plant, check out my post Spider Plant Care!

Small Indoor Plants #5: Orchids – Orchidaceae spp.

Orchids are a great, small plant. While taking up very little space for the pot, their vertical blooms are large and stunning, creating an instant focal point for any room. With proper care and instruction, they can even be persuaded to re-bloom multiple times, giving you multiple displays of these stunning blooms!

Small Indoor Plants #6: Heartleaf Philodendron – Philodendron cordatum

Heartleaf philodendron is also very similar to Devil’s Ivy. They prefer low-light conditions and do well with being overwatered, as well as can run a little dry. They have several different varieties available that can add different styles to your space.

Small Indoor Plants #7: Cacti – Cactaceae spp.

With so many to choose from, there are cacti for every space and style! Just make sure that they are in a well-draining potting mix, as well as they have time to dry out between waterings. They also do better with more sunlight, so sunny windowsills are great for these little guys! (as long as it isn’t too cold on the windowsill during the winter…)

Small Indoor Plants #8: English Ivy – Hedera helix

This little vine is great for the indoors! It prefers low light conditions and is one of my hard-to-kill houseplants. English Ivy is a very forgiving plant and can be trimmed back to stay in the space available.

Small Indoor Plants #9: Succulents

There are thousands of different types of succulents! Each one has a unique shape or coloring. They also vary quite a bit in size. From huge Agaves to their mini counterparts, succulents usually grow to a mature size, then will start producing seeds or offshoots. So when selecting a succulent, just make sure that the mature size fits with the space that you have in mind. For care information, check out my post Succulent Plant Care!

Small Indoor Plants #10: Lucky Bamboo – Dracaena braunii

Lucky bamboo has become quite popular in the last few years due to its ease in growing and its diversity in shapes. Lucky bamboo prefers low light conditions and does well in straight water. It is an easy-to-care-for houseplant and will be content for quite a long time before any trimming will be necessary. To know how to care for this plant, check out my post, Lucky Bamboo Plant Care!

Small Indoor Plants #11: Bromeliads – Bromeliaceae spp.

Bromeliads are a sure way to add a bit of interest to a room! With lots of different colors and leaf patterns to choose from, bromeliads do very well indoors considering their low light and low water requirements. Though some bromeliads can get huge, choose a variety that is more suited for the indoors and has a smaller mature size. Once it reaches that size, it should then only focus on storing energy for its beautiful flower stalks, as well as in producing new pups. These little plantlets can then be removed and either thrown away or repotted for even more bromeliads! (And remember… plants make great gifts!)

Small Indoor Plants #12: Aloe Vera – Aloe vera

This plant is a very common houseplant and is being seen more and more as fewer people have their own yards. Once again, choose a plant that will fit your space at its mature size and you won’t have any issues with running out of space. Also try to give it a bit more sunlight and let it dry out between waterings. The quickest way to kill a cactus or a succulent is by overwatering it! For information on how to care for this plant, check out my post on Aloe Plant Care!

Small Indoor Plants #13: African Violet – Saintpaulia

African violets are a pretty, small, flowering plant that does very well indoors. Some things to avoid, however, are overwatering and getting water on its leaves. This can cause brown spots to appear. Try to instead water the plant from the bottom through keeping it in a container with drainage holes and letting the pot sit in a shallow container of water for about 10 minutes. This will ensure that the leaves stay dry, while the roots stay moist. For care information for this plant, check out my post African Violet Plant Care!

Small Indoor Plants #14: Air Plants – Tillandsia spp.

Tillandsia (commonly referred to as simply ‘air plants’) have made quite the scene in recent indoor design. From the many different variations in usage to the very low-maintenance aspect, Air Plants are definitely on the rise! These plants can range in size and can come in slight variations in color. All air plants, however, need the same type of watering. Basically, do not water more than once a week, and during the weekly waterings, simply soak roots in water for 10-15 minutes, then put it back on display! For more information, check out my post, Air Plant Care, as well as How to Water Air Plants!

Small Indoor Plants #15: Venus Flytraps – Dionaea muscipula

While a little more difficult to take care of, Venus flytraps will definitely make a statement in any space. There are also many different sizes of flytraps that will stay small and compact for years. They do, however, need purified water, as some of the hard tap waters can cause damage to it. Also feed it according to the recommendations of the specific flytrap that you purchase. Then have fun watching these guys open and close, and maybe even get rid of some of the bugs in your home!

That’s it for my list of small interior plants! Once again, I tried to choose plants that not only started off small, but also stayed small and wouldn’t get too large over time. Because believe me, I understand when people are short on space, but still want to squeeze in a plant or two to liven things up! And feel free to share any comments or questions below!

Happy digging!

Did you know that, according to the ASPCA, there were over 351,000 reported cases of pet poisoning last year alone? Yes, that charming Fiddle Leaf Fig or that innocent-looking bouquet of lilies you adore could be a potential hazard. With plants ranking as the 6th most common pet toxin, it’s a wake-up call for plant enthusiasts who are also pet parents. It’s not all gloomy, though. Awareness is the first step towards creating a safe environment for our furry companions.

After looking at my post regarding poisonous indoor plants, I wanted to show you a list of safe indoor plants for pets. This list includes some of the most common houseplants that are not only available in most areas, but are also pet-friendly plants. So if you’re worried about your furry friends’ safety, then check out this list!

*Note: You can also check out my list of Common Cut Flowers that are Poisonous to Pets. This will ensure that pets don’t get sick eating your bouquet!*

Pet-Safe Houseplants

1. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)

A popular indoor palm with feathery, arching fronds that add a tropical touch to any room. It grows well in bright, indirect light and requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not soggy.

2. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

A small, graceful palm that thrives in low light, making it perfect for indoor spaces. It has delicate, arching fronds and can grow up to 4 feet tall with minimal care.

3. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)

A hardy palm with thin, reed-like stems and delicate fronds, ideal for filtering indoor air. It prefers bright, indirect light and moderate watering, making it a low-maintenance addition to your home.

4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Known for its arching leaves and spider-like offshoots, this plant is easy to care for and pet-friendly. It thrives in bright to moderate indirect light and tolerates occasional neglect.The Spider plant has so many things going for it! Not only are spider plants non-toxic for pets, but they is also on our list of air-purifying plants, hard to kill plants, and low light plants! This is definitely a plant that no one will have issues with!

5. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

A lush, green fern with arching fronds that is perfect for hanging baskets and low-light areas. It prefers high humidity and consistent moisture to keep its fronds vibrant and healthy. But there are also some ferns that are toxic to dogs and cats, such as the Asparagus fern. So just make sure that you know what you’re buying and that the label is correct.

6. Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum raddianum)

This delicate fern features lacy fronds that add elegance to any room. It thrives in humid environments with indirect light and requires consistently moist soil.

7. Kimberly Queen Fern (Nephrolepis obliterata)

A robust fern with upright fronds that is excellent for air purification. It prefers bright, indirect light and regular watering to maintain its lush appearance.

8. Calathea (Calathea spp.)

Calatheas feature striking, colorful foliage with unique patterns that add visual interest to your home. They thrive in indirect light and high humidity.

9. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)

Known for its moving leaves that fold up at night, this plant has beautiful patterns on its foliage. It prefers moist soil and low light, making it ideal for indoor environments.Prayer plants, also known as peacock plants are not only non-toxic plants, but they also do well in low light conditions. Along with bromeliads, prayer plants can also add a lot of color to a darker indoor space.

10. Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)

Peperomias are compact, easy-to-grow plants with a variety of leaf shapes and colors. They thrive in bright, indirect light and require minimal watering, making them perfect for busy households. It is also listed as one of the best air-cleaning plants, as well as one that is low maintenance and hard to kill! Just make sure that it isn’t overwatered. Let is get a little dry between waterings and both your plant and your pets will be safe and happy!

11. Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia)

This small plant has glossy, thick leaves that are perfect for small spaces and low-light conditions. It is low-maintenance and prefers to dry out between waterings.

12. Pilea (Pilea peperomioides)

Also known as the Chinese Money Plant, this plant features round, coin-like leaves that add a playful touch to your decor. It prefers bright, indirect light and regular watering.

13. Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)

Known for its textured, quilted leaves and fast-growing nature, this plant is easy to propagate and share with friends. It thrives in bright, indirect light and moderate moisture.

14. Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)

This plant has colorful, spotted leaves that add a splash of color to any indoor space. It prefers bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil to keep its vibrant appearance.

15. Hoya (Hoya spp.)

Also known as the Wax Plant, Hoyas have thick, waxy leaves and produce fragrant, star-shaped flowers. They thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer to dry out between waterings. Known for its fragrant blooms, the wax plant is usually bought because of its aroma. When placed in the bedroom, this aroma is said to aid people in getting a more restful sleep! Just keep it in warmer temperatures to ensure overall health of the plant.

16. Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus radicans)

An attractive trailing plant with tubular red flowers resembling lipstick tubes, perfect for hanging baskets. It prefers bright, indirect light and moderate watering.

17. African Violet (Saintpaulia)

This popular flowering plant has fuzzy leaves and vibrant blooms in various colors. It thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers to be watered from the bottom to avoid leaf damage. African violets are not safe for human consumption, however. Often confused with wild violets (which are edible for human consumption), african violets are harmful if consumed by people. These are safe for pets, but do not purchase if there are small children in the home.

18. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera spp.)

The Christmas cactus is a great choice for anyone wanting fragrant blooms that are also safe. Though not as attractive without these blooms, the Christmas cactus can also be tricked into re-blooming. This isn’t for beginner plant parents, however, as it can be a long process to force new blooms. But if successful, these gorgeous flowers are worth it! Check out my post on how to get christmas cactus to bloom!

19. Zebra Plant (Aphelandra squarrosa)

An eye-catching plant with dark green leaves and striking white veins. It requires bright, indirect light and high humidity to keep its leaves vibrant and healthy.

20. Phalaenopsis Orchid (Phalaenopsis spp.)

Not all orchids are safe for pets. However, the phalaenopsis orchid is not only safe for cats and dogs, but the flowers are even safe for human consumption! Definitely an added bonus! These elegant orchids have long-lasting flowers that come in a variety of colors. They thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer to be watered sparingly, allowing the roots to dry out between waterings. 

21. Dendrobium Orchid (Dendrobium spp.)

This diverse group of orchids features delicate, fragrant flowers that come in various colors. They prefer bright, indirect light and moderate watering, with higher humidity during the growing season.

22. Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis amabilis)

A type of Phalaenopsis Orchid with large, moth-like flowers that can last for several months. It thrives in bright, indirect light and requires minimal watering.

23. Blue Echeveria (Echeveria glauca)

This attractive rosette-shaped succulent has blue-green leaves and is easy to care for. It prefers bright light and infrequent watering, making it ideal for sunny windowsills.

24. Haworthia (Haworthia spp.)

Small, rosette-forming succulents with unique, patterned leaves. They thrive in bright, indirect light and require minimal watering, making them perfect for busy households.

25. Burro’s Tail (Sedum morganianum)

This is a great succulent for anyone thinking about pet safety. A trailing succulent with fleshy, blue-green leaves resembling a donkey’s tail. It prefers bright light and infrequent watering, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets. It is a great alternative to the string of pearls succulent, which is toxic to both dogs and cats. You can find it cheap by ordering cuttings. Then check out my post on Propagating Succulents to easily grow this fun succulent!

26. Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)

This unique plant has a swollen base and long, arching leaves that resemble a ponytail. It thrives in bright light and requires minimal watering, making it a low-maintenance option.

27. Rattlesnake Plant (Calathea lancifolia)

This distinctive plant has long, wavy leaves patterned with dark green spots. It thrives in indirect light and high humidity, making it perfect for bathrooms or kitchens.

28. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

The Cast Iron Plant is not only non-toxic for pets, but is also a low maintenance, hard to kill, and low light plant. Aspidistra can easily replace a peace lily with its beautiful, lush foliage.  An extremely hardy plant with long, glossy leaves that is perfect for low-light conditions. It tolerates neglect and infrequent watering, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

29. Bromeliad (Bromeliaceae)

These exotic-looking plants have bright, colorful bracts and rosette-forming leaves. They thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer to be watered in their central cup. As one of the brightest low-light houseplants, bromeliads have become quite popular in the interiors. Not only are they bright and cheery, but they are also safe for your furry friends!

30. Guzmania (Guzmania spp.)

A type of bromeliad with vibrant, long-lasting flowers and arching leaves. It thrives in bright, indirect light and high humidity, making it a stunning addition to any room.

31. Tillandsia (Tillandsia spp.)

Known as air plants, these unique plants require no soil and come in various shapes and sizes. They thrive in bright, indirect light and need regular misting to keep their leaves hydrated.

32. Spiderwort (Tradescantia spp.)

A trailing plant with purple and green striped leaves that is easy to propagate. It thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers to be kept slightly moist.

33. Purple Waffle Plant (Hemigraphis alternata)

This small plant has crinkled, purple-tinged leaves that are excellent for low light. It prefers high humidity and regular watering to keep its leaves vibrant and healthy.

34. Staghorn Fern (Platycerium spp.)

A unique fern with antler-like fronds that is often mounted on plaques for display. It thrives in bright, indirect light and requires regular misting to maintain its moisture levels.

35. Aluminum Plant (Pilea cadierei)

This compact plant has silver-striped leaves and thrives in indirect light. It prefers to be kept slightly moist and is easy to care for, making it perfect for beginners.

36. Watermelon Peperomia (Peperomia argyreia)

This attractive plant has leaves resembling watermelon rind patterns. It thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers to dry out between waterings, making it an excellent choice for busy households.

In wrapping up, remember that our homes can be a haven for both our plants and our pets with a little bit of knowledge and a lot of love. Balancing our green thumbs with our love for our furry companions doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the insights we’ve shared, you’re now well-equipped to cultivate a living space that flourishes in harmony. Here’s to our pets, our plants, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing we’re creating a safe, vibrant environment for all our loved ones. Happy digging!

Pet-Safe Houseplants FAQs

Having plants indoors can be a lot of fun, but not if you’re constantly worrying about your pet’s safety! But you can’t poisonous houseplants for pets if you don’t know which ones are safe. So here is a list of some of the most common houseplants that are toxic to dogs and cats!

*Note: If sending a pet owner some flowers, here is a link to my post Common Flowers that are Toxic to Pets!*

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

#1: Peace Lily – Spathiphyllum

This low maintenance, low light plant is great for anyone wanting an easy houseplant to care for. Except for those with plant-eating pets!

#2: Ficus – Ficus spp.

Ficus plants in general are toxic. These include the Rubber Plant, the Weeping Fig, and the Fiddle-leaf Fig, just to name the most common. When branches or leaves are crushed, they exude a milky substance that is toxic to pets, as well as can cause some irritation to human skin upon contact as well. Not everyone has this skin irritation, but it seems to be more prevalent in those who are sensitive to latex products.

#3: Snake Plant – Sansevieria trifasciata

Another one of the easiest plants to grow, it is also toxic to pets. So although it is great for the indoors, make sure that you carefully decide whether or not to include it in your home.

#4: Dracaena – Dracaena spp.

Dracaena plants all seem to be toxic to dogs and cats. This includes the Madagascar Dragon Tree, the Cornstalk Dracaena, and many others. If looking for a good substitute, try out a palm, as all palms are safe for pets.

#5: Devil’s Ivy (Pothos) – Epipremnum aureum

One of my personal favorite plants, I know I would want to keep it a safe distance from my dog. A good thing about this vine though, is that it would do well in a hanging basket, out of reach of most animals.

#6: Dumb Cane – Dieffenbachia

The Dumb Cane gets its name from the numbing effect that this plant has. If any part of this plant is chewed on, it would numb the mouth, and if any part was swallowed, it would cause swelling of the throat as well. This is probably one of the more dangerous of the houseplants that would not want to be kept around pets that tend to eat the plants…

#7: Philodendron – Philodendron spp. & Monstera spp.

Also a highly toxic plant, the philodendron species are all toxic. This includes the vining heartleaf philodendron, as well as the split leaf philodendron, also known as the swiss cheese plant. Basically, if you are worried about plant toxicity, do not get any plant from the philodendron family.

#8: Chinese Evergreen – Aglaonema

Though a very beautiful plant, it would be very difficult to keep this one away from dogs and cats. So stay safe and replace it with a Cast Iron plant for the leaf texture, or bromeliads for the color.

#9: English Ivy – Hedera helix

This one surprised me as English Ivy is so common that I didn’t think that it would be toxic! But it is! So be careful inside, as well as outside, as this is a very common vine. The Swedish ivy, however, is a non-toxic replacement you can use instead.

#10: Umbrella Tree – Schefflera actinophylla

The Umbrella Tree can be toxic if ingested in very large amounts. However, most cases seen with dogs and cats is instead mild vomiting and diarrhea. Personally, though, I would still not want a plant around that caused my pet to make a big mess that I’d have to clean up!

#11: Jade Plant – Crassula ovata

This plant is also not super toxic, but is still one to be aware of, since it is also very common as a houseplant. If eaten, usual signs are vomiting, depression, and uncoordination.

#12: Croton – Croton spp.

Croton reminds me of the poison frogs found in the rainforest. The bright colors mean they’re poisonous, and in this case, the bright markings of croton leaves are saying the same exact thing.

#13: Aloe Vera – Aloe vera

While there are many health benefits to aloe vera, it should not be ingested. And this includes dogs and cats, though I bet they would have just a bit harder of a time with this plant due to its sharp edges. It still wouldn’t be enough of a deterrent, however, for those more determined pets.

#14: Amaryllis – Amaryllis

This plant, though very pretty, is also toxic to pets. Some symptoms of ingestion are vomiting, depression, diarrhea, abdominal pain, hyper-salivation, anorexia, and tremors.

#15: Azalea – Rhododendron

Another very common houseplant, I would be very careful around this one with my pets. If ingested in large amounts, it could cause a reaction from vomiting to cardiac failure. Be careful of azaleas, as they have also become quite popular as a flowering plant to give as a gift. Just be aware if there are pets in the household, or if receiving it, make sure that it stays out of reach of any animals.

That’s the list of some of the most common houseplants that are toxic to dogs and cats. Let me know if you’ve ever run into any issues with these, or if there are more plants that you’d like to share! I know this isn’t a complete list! Check out the ASPCA website for a very detailed list of toxic and non-toxic plants.

Happy digging!

Do you want to be happier, more concentrated and creative, less stressed, and less sick???? I’m with you in saying HECK YES!!! Well here’s a bit of a secret… investing in houseplants can make this come true for you! There are tons of studies that prove the benefits of indoor plants, so today I wanted to tell you exactly what these studies have proven, and how a houseplant can benefit you today!

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

Be happier!

Studies have shown that interior plants can make us happier people! The Journal of Environmental Psychology has shown that flowering plants in particular can decrease stress levels.

Also, a University of Texas study has shown that spending more time around plants can make us help others more often, as well as be more caring and empathetic towards others. Pretty cool, right?!

Have greater concentration!

The Royal College of Agriculture in England did a study that showed a 70% increase in attentiveness between classrooms that contained plants versus those that did not.

This is huge!!!

There was also a higher attendance rate in these classrooms as well.

This study was also backed by the American Horticultural Therapy Association, who also found that interior plants can help us to concentrate better. They were also found to increase creativity levels (mostly through certain leaf colors and patterns).

Be healthier!

Now this is the biggest impact that plants can have in your home or workplace…

To start off, houseplants have been found to decrease indoor toxin levels, to increase oxygen levels, and to increase humidity levels…

Indoor toxins aren’t a good thing. This is because they increase your chances for…

• Stroke (34%)
• Ischemic heart disease (26%)
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (22%)
• Child Respiratory infections (12%)
• Lung cancer (6%)

So by decreasing the amount of indoor toxins, you can decrease your chances of stroke, heart disease, lung disease, child respiratory infections, and lung cancer!

Washington State University also found that interior plants decrease the amount of dust in the air by 20%!

And did you know, indoor plants remove up to 87% of toxins every 24 hours! (according to a study done by NASA). See the list of best indoor air cleaners here.

So, not only do interior plants remove toxins, but they also increase the amount of oxygen (greatly reducing headaches and causing better sleeping conditions), as well as increase indoor humidity levels. Especially in the winter!

Increasing the humidity will then decrease the occurrence of dry skin, colds, sore throats, and dry coughs (Agricultural University of Norway).

The Agricultural University of Norway also looked at office conditions and found that offices with interior plants had lower sickness rates by up to 60%!

That’s a lot of healthier people!

Or maybe they were just more willing to go to work when they had beautiful plants surrounding them?!

I hope that what you learn from this article is that despite the added time that houseplants require, the benefits still greatly outweigh any added maintenance.

You can also check out my list of easy, low maintenance plants, or my list of plants for dark spaces if you’re worried about keeping them alive…

So choose to be happier and healthier, both in mind and body, and bring home a houseplant today!

Happy Digging!

Sources used:

http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/147470490500300109

http://www.healthline.com/health/importance-plants-home#Overview1

https://www.bayeradvanced.com/articles/5-benefits-of-houseplants

http://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/flowers-and-plants/houseplants/health-benefits-of-houseplants-pictures

http://public.wsu.edu/~lohr/hih/air/

Let’s face it… Not all apartments have fabulous, large, south-facing windows. There are plenty of dark corners and rooms that can still be fine for houseplants. And that’s what I’ve got for you today. A list of plants that do well with no sun… a list of the 16 best plants for dark apartments!

Some tips to help your low-light plants are to make sure that your pot has good drainage holes, such as these, and use light, well-draining soil such as this cactus potting soil! For an in-depth guide to growing plants in low-light situations, get the free guide, How to Grow Plants in the Dark!

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a small commission. However, I only add products that I sincerely LOVE! If you have any issues with any of these products, please let me know!**

#1: Rubber Plant – Ficus elastica

This is one of my favorite plants, as it needs very little light (it actually gets leaf damage in direct, afternoon sunlight!) It is also on my list of hard to kill plants! It can be found either as a smaller plant, or can grow to be a large tree. No doubt about it, this is one of the easiest plants to grow indoors and in low light. For care information, check out my post on Rubber Tree Plant Care! Or you can purchase one here!

#2: Devil’s Ivy (Pothos) – Epipremnum aureum

Devil’s Ivy is one of the most common vines in the interior. This is because along with it’s low light needs, it is also very low maintenance and can grow in straight water. In soil, it prefers to stay a little moist, so it is a good choice for all you who tend to overwater your plants! It is also one of the best bathroom plants, as it does just fine with that extra bit of humidity. For care information, check out my post Pothos Vine Care! Or you can purchase one here!

#3: Snake Plant – Sansevieria trifasciata

This is also on my list of the best and easiest plants to grow indoors. Snake plant doesn’t need very much light, is extremely low maintenance, can withstand some watering neglect, and also has very few pest problems. If you are a beginner, or just enjoy low maintenance plants, this is definitely the best plant for you to have in your dark apartment! To learn how to care for this plant, check out Snake Plant Care. Or you can purchase one here!

#4: Bamboo Palm – Chamaedorea seifrizii

Also known as the Parlor palm, this is a beautiful, large palm that actually doesn’t need a lot of natural sunlight. It does like for it’s soil to be kept moist, but make sure that you don’t give this plant too much water at a time, as this can cause root rot. But with light, frequent watering, this palm will look amazing in your dark space! For info on how to care for indoor palms, check out Indoor Palm Care! Or you can purchase one here!

#5: Chinese Evergreen – Aglaonema spp.

Another drought-tolerant plant, the Chinese Evergreen can deal with a bit of neglect. Extremely low maintenance, it can also withstand low humidity levels that come from being placed near a heater vent. There are also some colorful varieties that can add a splash of brightness to the darker areas of the room! Find it here!

#6: Heartleaf Philodendron – Philodendron cordatum

A great vine for the indoors, the Heartleaf Philodendron also comes in a few different varieties that can add new, unique looks to your space. My personal favorite is the ‘Brazil’ variety that adds a bright, neon green stripe down the middle of each leaf! Find it here!

#7: Dumb Cane – Dieffenbachia 

This is also a low-light and low-maintenance plant! Be careful though, as all parts of the plant are toxic and can cause difficulty breathing if swallowed. So it might not be the best choice for those with small children or pets. Also, this plant needs to dry out between watering in order to keep a healthy root system. Find it here!

#8: Janet Craig Dracaena – Dracaena ‘Janet Craig’

Out of all the dracaena species, I’ve found that the majority of them don’t do particularly well in low light. However, the Janet Craig dracaena I have found does the best. The plant doesn’t grow much at all in low light, but as long as it is not overwatered, then the plant can actually stay alive in low light for quite some time!

#9: Peacock Plant – Calathea makoyana

The Peacock plant is known for its distinct leaf markings, which can add a whole lot of texture and is a real show-stopper in any room. This plant can be a bit more of a challenge to grow, however, as it likes the soil to be kept consistently moist, as well as it needs higher humidity levels. A great choice for this guy would be in a low-light bathroom, where it would naturally receive higher humidity levels! Find it here!

#10: Bromeliad – Bromeliaceae

Bromeliads are another great addition to low-light bathrooms! They can survive on flourescent lighting alone and like to be kept in higher humidity levels. There are also many different varieties to choose from that can add loads of color to any indoor space! A great plant for any dark apartment that is also humid! Find it here!

#11: Peace Lily – Spathiphyllum

Peace lily plants are not only great in low light, but are also low maintenance plants that can do well if they run a little dry. As soon as the leaves start to droop, water thoroughly, and it will perk back up again, just fine! This plant is also on NASA’s list of most effective plants to clean the air. It was found to help reduce all five of the most common toxins found indoors. Now that’s one amazing plant! Find it here!

#12: Cast Iron Plant – Aspidistra elatior

This plant is not only low maintenance, but it will also stay about the same size until transplanted into a larger pot. The Cast Iron Plant will be your steady and sure plant that does well in any situation. It can also take a fair amount of physical abuse by kids, pets, etc. Just make sure that it dries out between watering. Find it here!

#13: Scindapsus – Scindapsus spp.

Also known Often confused with pothos species, the Scindapsus plant is a beautiful vine with silver markings. This vine does great in low light, as well as in hanging baskets and draped along tables and countertops. Just remember to water your scindapsus less during periods of low light and this vine will look gorgeous for you for years!

#14: Prayer Plant – Maranta leuconeura

Prayer Plant is another plant known for its bright color! It will also raise and lower its leaves to adjust to the varying light levels from night to day! Such a cool plant, the Prayer plant is perfect for any dark apartment! Find it here!

#15: ZZ Plant – Zamioculcas zamiifolia

The ZZ plant is another of my personal favorites as I love the arching lines that each branch forms. The branches can be left to get large and curve downward, or they can be pruned and trained to stay upright and straight. Like the Cast Iron Plant, the ZZ plant is also a very low maintenance plant that can take a lot of abuse from children or pets, as well as can stand neglectful watering. Just be careful, though, as all parts of this plant are poisonous. Find it here!

#16: Spider Plant – Chlorophytum comosum

This is a great plant for anyone who has a hard time keeping plants alive. The Spider plant needs little light, does well under low watering (or sporadic watering) conditions, and is also very low maintenance. It will also grow little plantlets (called pups) that can be repotted for even more plants! This is definitely a great choice for anyone wanting to expand (or begin) their houseplant collection. For care information, check out my post on Spider Plant Care! Or you can purchase one here!

That’s my list of plants that do well in low light conditions! I know there are more out there, but I tried to stick to the ones that are easy to find in any city, as well as are easier to care for. Feel free to comment on your own experiences in growing these plants, as well as if you have any favorites!

For any more tips on how to care for houseplants in apartments, check out this post, Pot it Like it’s Hot: Best Plants for Apartments!

Happy Digging!