For majority when we buy house plants, we buy the prettiest one – or one that would suit the colours of the room – but an expert reveals it may be extremely dangerous
There’s more you need to consider when purchasing a plant [stock image](Image: Getty Images)
Popular houseplants could poison your pet, experts warn. They might look great on your grid but some of the internet’s most viral houseplants could be putting your pets at serious risk.
A new study from a popular home decor site reveals that several of the most Instagrammable plants are also highly toxic to cats and dogs, causing symptoms ranging from drooling and vomiting to tremors and depression.
The brand analysed the top trending houseplants on Instagram combining both their scientific and common names – and compared the hashtag count to pet toxicity data. The results revealed a mix of aesthetic appeal and hidden danger.
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“Choosing how to decorate and design your home can be a really personal task, with every decision reflecting your interests and lifestyle,” said Tony Gilbert from RiversWallArt.com. “These findings reveal which plants are the most visually appealing, according to social media users, and can offer inspiration for those looking to style their space.”
Most Instagrammable – but most toxic
At the top of the list is Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis miller), with more than 5.1 million posts on Instagram. It may be known for its healing gel, but if your pet takes a bite, it can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors and extreme tiredness.
In second place is Agave (Agave Americana), clocking over 2.4 million posts. It’s also toxic to pets, with symptoms including mouth irritation, drooling and stomach upset if ingested.
Some Insta-favourites are safe – but not all
The third most popular plant, Haworthia (Haworthiopsis attenuata), is the first on the list considered safe – making it a solid choice for pet-friendly homes.
Other relatively safe options include Stonecrop (Sedum), which can occasionally cause mild stomach upset in large quantities, and the Pincushion Cactus (Mammillaria), which is non-toxic but still sharp enough to cause injury if chewed or stepped on.
At the bottom of the top 10 is the Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) – another pet-safe option, though it can still lead to a bit of tummy trouble if eaten in excess.
There are pet-safe plants(Image: Getty Images/Dorling Kindersley)Beware of the trendy plants doing damage
But the list of aesthetic-but-dangerous plants continues. The popular Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata), loved for its air-purifying powers and low-maintenance care, is toxic to cats and dogs. Side effects include nausea, vomiting, drooling and lethargy.
The String of Pearls plant (Curio rowleyanus), a popular trailing succulent with over 233,000 hashtags, can cause diarrhoea, vomiting, skin irritation and drooling and should be kept well out of reach of pets.
Just behind it is the Jade Plant (Crassula ovata), which can trigger vomiting, depression and loss of coordination, even in small amounts.
“If you share your home with a dog or cat, opting for pet-safe plants or even plant-themed wall art can give you the same lush, green aesthetic without putting your furry friend at risk,” Tony added
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