Always be careful with these if you have pets or young children.
Houseplants add colour, life and beauty into our homes, but did you know that some of our favourites can be toxic if ingested? From Devils Ivy to the Peace Lily, there are many plants that should be kept away from pets or young children. Not sure which ones to be careful of? Take a look at the 10 common houseplants which can be toxic if ingested..
Peace Lily is a beautiful evergreen houseplant with a plethora of detoxifying qualities, but it can be toxic if consumed by both humans and pets. If you do have this one in your home, be careful to keep it out of reach of small children and inquisitive pets.
Pothos, also known as Devil's Ivy, is the perfect houseplant for beginners. It's a climbing and hanging plant which can impressively grow in all kinds of directions, and makes for a rather eye-catching shelf display. These plants are also toxic to both people and animals if ingested.
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This leafy tropical plant — famous for its distinguishable bright aesthetic — is a great way to add some vibrancy to the home. However, this plant contains poisonous calcium oxalate crystals, so be cautious when around pets and children as it can cause swelling, eye pain, diarrhoea, and vomiting when eaten.
Sago Palm is a fun addition to the home due to its tropical-style leaves. However, don't be fooled, as this plant is highly toxic when ingested – the seeds (nuts) are the most toxic to pets – causing vomiting, diarrhoea, and in some cases, liver failure.
While this is commonly an outdoor plant, Calla Lily is also adored as an indoor plant in the home. Despite its beautiful, elegant appearance, the calcium oxalate crystals found in the plant can cause pain and swelling if ingested by humans.
Hedera, more commonly known as English Ivy, is known for its delicate tree-climbing abilities, but it's mildly poisonous if eaten, so keep clear from small children and cats and dogs.
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This easy-care houseplant is popular due to its air purifying and low maintenance qualities, but it also contains saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal discomfort to humans and pets if ingested.
This striking houseplant contains needle-shaped calcium oxalate crystals called raphides, which, when ingested, can cause a host of unpleasant symptoms. Be careful if you have small children or pets.
This striking evergreen houseplant originated from the South American rainforests and most certainly deserves its Greek name of 'love tree', thanks to its heart-shaped leaves. But be wary that it's potentially harmful – the plant produces calcium oxalate, which is toxic to humans if ingested.
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With heart-shaped leaves, this easy-to-care-for plant is fast-growing and tolerates low light. The sap of this plant is poisonous but non-lethal, causing skin irritation and burning of the mouth if ingested.
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