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Photo: OlgaMiltsova/Getty ImagesIf you suffer from environmental allergies, you're likely familiar with the challenges of the 'shoulder seasons'—spring and fall. While these times of year are beautiful, with nature blooming in the spring and autumn bringing rich colors, the allergens like pollen and ragweed can make it tough for allergy sufferers. It may seem like staying inside would provide a relief, but your home could still be filled with allergens. Many indoor plants release irritants such as spores, dust, and pollen, which can trigger symptoms just as much as the outdoors. To help you maintain a healthy, sneeze-free indoor environment, we've consulted experts to compile a list of houseplants to avoid if you want to truly minimize your exposure to allergens.
1. Ferns
Feifei Cui-Paoluzzo/Getty Images"For those with a spore allergy, ferns might not be the best choice for your indoor garden," says Lisa Eldred Steinkopf, the expert behind The Houseplant Guru. "Ferns are known to release large quantities of spores that can cover anything beneath them with a fine, dusty coating."
When inhaled, these spores can cause symptoms similar to those triggered by outdoor allergens, explains Krystal Duran, plant expert at Plants with Krystal. Additionally, fern fronds can contribute to skin reactions like contact dermatitis, especially in individuals already prone to allergies or those with sensitive skin who often experience eczema, flushing, or rashes.
Steinkopf specifically suggests avoiding holly ferns and rabbit's foot ferns, both of which tend to release a significant amount of spores as they mature.
1. African Violets are small yet stunning houseplants that can also be a source of trouble for allergy sufferers. These plants are known for their fuzzy leaves and striking flowers, both of which can trigger allergic reactions. As Duran points out, the leaves tend to collect dust, while the flowers are full of pollen, making them less than ideal for those prone to allergies.
Photo: Lola L. Falantes/Getty ImagesDespite their charm, African violets are a challenge for allergy sufferers due to their characteristics. The leaves trap dust, and the flowers are laden with pollen. According to Duran, these traits can make the seemingly harmless plant a source of discomfort for those with sensitivities.
2. English Ivy is another popular plant, though it too may cause issues for individuals with allergies.
Photo: Tonya Nunn/Getty ImagesThough we often think of allergies in terms of sneezing, certain plants, like English Ivy, can cause skin reactions. According to Steinkopf, the substance falcarinol in the ivy is the culprit, causing irritation such as blisters. To avoid this, she advises using gloves when handling the plant and placing it in areas where accidental contact is less likely.
3. Rubber Trees are another plant to consider if you're concerned about allergies.
Image courtesy of Natalia Gdovskaia/Getty ImagesRubber trees, cherished for their glossy, dark foliage and low-maintenance nature, are a favorite among indoor plant enthusiasts. However, they may not be ideal for those prone to allergies. 'The sap they produce, known as latex, is a primary ingredient in natural rubber,' explains Duran. 'When trimming these plants, be cautious not to get the sap on your skin, particularly if you're sensitive to latex. It can lead to skin rashes, hives, or even breathing difficulties.'
5. Purple Passion Plant
Image courtesy of Christy Rowe/Getty ImagesSteinkopf advises, "If dust is an issue for you, it's best to avoid fuzzy-leaved plants like the purple passion plant." The fuzzy leaves tend to trap dust, but regular cleaning and dusting can significantly reduce allergy symptoms. Even though these plants have soft leaves, they can be rinsed in the sink with lukewarm water. Be careful not to let water sit in the center crown, as it could lead to rot.
6. Weeping Fig
Helin Loik-Tomson/Getty ImagesWeeping fig trees, while attractive, are best avoided by individuals with asthma or respiratory allergies. These trees can cause allergic reactions due to particles from their leaves, trunk, and sap. These reactions can range from skin rashes to respiratory problems. Prolonged exposure can even lead to allergic symptoms in those who normally don’t experience them.
7. Anything That Blossoms
sagarmanis/Getty ImagesIt’s a well-known fact that if you suffer from allergies, especially in the spring when plants begin to bloom, it’s best to keep flowers out of your home. As Steinkopf points out, "Most plants release pollen when they bloom, and if you have a sensitivity to pollen, blooming plants should be avoided. You could always trim the flower stalk before it fully opens and disperses its pollen, but often, that's the very reason why these flowers are grown and appreciated in the first place." A flower that tends to be safe for most allergy sufferers? Orchids, which are recognized as the official flower of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Orchids are known for their minimal pollen production, and the pollen they do have isn’t airborne, making them one of the most allergy-friendly options out there.
