Pet-friendly Succulents For Home: Safest Greens You Should Get If You Have Cats Or Dogs
Succulents are pretty and low-maintenance plants for novice gardeners. However, several common succulents are unsafe for house pets.
Most humans love two things deeply: plants and their pets. Unfortunately, many common houseplants are hazardous to dogs and cats. Succulents look striking and typically prosper on neglect, and owing to their small size, these compact greens are perfect for tiny apartments. But if you are searching for succulent species that are non-toxic and safe for your furry friends, below are some prickly green babies you can bring home.
Hens and Chicks
Your furry pals may not always get along well with hens and chickens, but this stunning succulent (Sempervivum tectorum) will adjust fine with them. Hens and chicks are very hardy succulents and are ideal for creating a mat-like formation over your outdoor rock garden—but grow them in well-draining soil and avoid very shady spots.
Echeveria
Of all the succulents, echeveria is the most popular, and these fleshy foliage are praised for their splendid rose-shaped leaves. Some of the most sought-after and unique echeveria varieties that you may come across include Black Knight, Alta May, and Echeveria agavoides ‘Lipstick’. They are non-toxic and pet-safe and are best suited for terrariums, or you can place them on a tabletop as a decorative item.
Burro’s Tail
If you are looking for succulents for hanging pot displays, look no further than Burro’s tail. This prickly plant has bluish-green, fleshy leaves, overlapping one another—creating a woven appearance. The leaves of the plant grow on draping, long branches that beautifully cascade from the hanging baskets or when they are allowed to hang from high shelves.
Ghost Plant
The compact succulent is named after the whitish-to-pale gray frosting on its rose-shaped foliage. But there is no need for you to fret about this plant causing trouble to your dog or cat because it is pet-friendly. This cold hardy succulent requires bright light, and you should use a loose potting mix to promote faster growth and avoid overwatering.
Elephant Bush
Jade plants are unsafe for pets due to their toxic properties, but if you love their appearance—you may consider getting elephant bush succulents as a pet-friendly alternative. These tiny plants grow fleshy leaves in variegated or green hues. The stems of the plant are reddish-brown and are visually appealing. The leaves of the succulent are also edible and can be added to soups or salads, and they impart a tangy flavor.
Your pets and succulents can co-exist—all you have to do is—pick your greens carefully.
