Over the last year or so, I have created a pretty impressive collection of houseplants. Many of my friends joke that walking into my home is a bit like walking into a greenhouse! Just a few weeks ago, my friend was going out of town on vacation and entrusted me to watch her cat. Within a few hours, I quickly realized that a majority of my houseplants probably weren’t great for my temporary fluffy friend, so I had to temporarily relocate a majority of my collection. If you’re a cat owner who likes plants, take note of these beautiful houseplants that are safe for cats. A majority of these are really easy to care for, too.
Beautiful Houseplants That Are Safe For Cats
Prayer Plant
I have a Prayer Plant hanging in my bedroom and I cannot get enough of the unique foliage. Prayer Plants like areas of low light (this species is native to the forest floor) consistently moist soil, and plenty of humidity. They grow quickly, sometimes putting out several leaves every week if conditions are optimal. Because of the way that it grows, these plants are ideal for hanging containers. The best part is that it is safe for both cats and dogs, too.
Pilea
Also known as the “Chinese Money Plant” these little species were all of the rage in home decor during this last year. A distant relative of the succulent, these plants only need to be watered when the soil feels dry or when the plant leaves begin to droop. Keep the plant in an area of indirect lighting as direct lighting will scorch the leaves. You can even propagate the leaves using this guide.
Ponytail Palm
I love this plant because, well, it just LOOKS like a ponytail! Though this plant is native to a tropical environment, it likes relatively dry soil. Wait until the top two inches of soil have completely dried before rewatering. Ponytail Palms do need plenty of sunlight, so make sure that you are placing your plant in a location where it will thrive. This is another houseplant safe for both cats and dogs.
Boston Fern
By nature, ferns are a little bit trickier to care for just because they come from such humid environments. Keep soil consistently moist, watering once a week regularly. Ferns will also need greater humidity than most of your other houseplants, so I recommend purchasing a humidifier to keep nearby. Ferns also should not be watered with tap water (will cause brown leaf burn) and kept in an area with low, indirect light.
Orchid
Orchids are one of my favorite plants because, if cared for correctly, they will continue to bloom throughout your entire life. There are many different kinds of species and all of them are actually safe for cats. Orchids love to be root bound, so pot yours in a tight container. Additionally, they don’t need much light at all. However, regular soil is much too hearty for Orchids, there isn’t enough air for the roots to breathe. I recommend using a special bark mixture for Orchids. They rebloom every winter. This is probably one of my favorite houseplants that are safe for cats.
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