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Photo: Bogdan Kurylo/Getty ImagesIf you're an adventurous plant lover, you're probably inclined to grab any exotic plant you come across and give it a home. And in many cases, this can result in some fantastic outcomes. A Venus flytrap to keep those pesky kitchen flies at bay? Absolutely. A staghorn fern hanging above your bed? We’re in.
However, there are some plants you should think twice about before bringing into your home, especially to protect both your furry friends and little ones. “Make sure you’re aware of a plant’s toxicity levels before deciding to welcome it into your space,” advises Paris Lalicata, Head of Plant Education and Community at The Sill. “Some plants are toxic—usually only in large quantities—to pets and/or humans, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they should be off-limits. With a few precautions, you can enjoy their beauty while ensuring safety. This could mean placing them high up out of reach or designating a special plant-only room that pets and kids can’t access,” she explains.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of toxic plants to be cautious of. If you have curious pets or young children, it might be worth avoiding these altogether for peace of mind.
1. Sago Palm
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“Sago palms (Cycas revoluta) pose a danger to both animals and humans, particularly their seeds,” says Lisa Eldred Steinkopf, the expert behind The Houseplant Guru. “These plants contain a toxic compound called cytosine, which, if ingested, can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or even more severe effects.” Steinkopf advises that if you suspect a pet or person has ingested any part of a sago palm, you should seek medical help immediately. She also points out that the leaves are spiky and can puncture the skin if handled incorrectly.
2. Dieffenbachia
Ali Majdfar/Getty ImagesOften called dumb cane or leopard lily, these popular tropical plants contain substances that make them mildly toxic to both humans and pets. “This common houseplant found at most garden centers contains calcium oxalate,” explains Krystal Duran, the expert behind Plants With Krystal. “Handling it without gloves can irritate the skin and cause a tingling sensation similar to a bee sting. Ingesting this plant can lead to more serious symptoms, including mouth blisters, diarrhea, respiratory failure, loss of speech, and even death.”
3. Poinsettia
Clive Nichols/Getty ImagesThe beloved holiday plant may seem charming, but if you have pets (or children) who tend to nibble out of curiosity, you might want to go for a faux version instead. “Poinsettias contain a milky substance called latex in their leaves and stems,” explains Steinkopf. “This can irritate the skin and cause a burning sensation in your mouth if ingested, though it’s rarely fatal.” However, getting this substance in your eyes can be a serious issue. “It can lead to blindness—which is uncommon—but at the very least, it will irritate your eyes,” Steinkopf adds.
4. Pencil Cactus
yotrak/Getty ImagesIt turns out that it’s not just those sharp needle-like spikes you need to be cautious about with cacti. “You’ll find this plant at many plant shops and nurseries, so be careful when shopping,” advises Duran. “Its white milky sap is toxic to both humans and animals and can cause severe skin irritation. If the sap gets into your eyes, it can cause irritation and potentially lead to blindness.”
5. Philodendrons
krisanapong detraphiphat/Getty ImagesOne of the most common houseplants, the quirky philodendron comes in a variety of forms, making it a favorite among both beginner and experienced gardeners. However, caution is advised before bringing one into your home. “Philodendrons are another plant that contains calcium oxalate,” explains Steinkopf. “The calcium oxalate is in the form of raphides, which act like tiny needles. If ingested, the plant can cause mouth irritation and swelling from these raphides—though it’s usually not fatal, it’s always better to be cautious.” She adds that handling the plant or getting its sap on your skin can also lead to skin irritation.”
6. Ivy
Getty ImagesIf you're aiming to add some visual charm to a large wall or high ceilings, many plant experts recommend a variety of ivy, known for its fast growth and ability to quickly fill large spaces. While generally considered safe, it’s wise to keep it out of reach of pets and children, and avoid placing it in areas where guests or residents might frequently brush against it. Why? The plant releases a sap when cut or crushed that turns black or brown upon exposure to air. “Ivy sap contains falcarinol, which can lead to contact dermatitis,” explains Steinkopf. “Always wear gloves when handling ivy, especially when pruning or dealing with damaged vines.”
