11 Pet-Friendly Indoor Plants Perfect for Apartments

Finding the right indoor plants for your apartment can be tricky, especially when you have curious pets around. You want to add some greenery to your space without worrying about your furry friends chewing on toxic leaves. Luckily, there are plenty of safe, pet-friendly plants that can thrive in small spaces, providing both beauty and peace of mind. From easy-to-care-for options to plants that bring a pop of color, these pet-safe indoor plants are perfect for any home.

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Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

The spider plant is a popular choice for pet owners because it is non-toxic to both cats and dogs. It is known for its air-purifying qualities and its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, making it perfect for apartment living. Spider plants are adaptable to both low and bright light, and they do well in slightly dry conditions, which means they do not require constant attention. Their long, arching leaves and tiny offshoots make them a decorative and safe addition to any home.

Besides being safe for pets, the spider plant is quite resilient and requires minimal care. It is also ideal for smaller apartments because it does not grow too large and can be easily placed on a shelf or in a hanging basket. It adds a touch of greenery without taking up much space, and the fact that pets are generally drawn to its hanging tendrils only adds to its appeal.

Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

Boston ferns are pet-friendly plants that thrive in humid environments, making them an excellent choice for homes with pets. They are non-toxic to cats and dogs, providing peace of mind for pet parents who are concerned about their furry companions chewing on plants. Boston ferns are best placed in areas with indirect sunlight and regular humidity, such as bathrooms or near windows that receive diffused light.

These ferns grow well in apartments because they do not require a lot of space and can be kept in hanging baskets or on shelves. Their feathery fronds add a soft, natural element to indoor spaces, and their ability to purify the air enhances the atmosphere of any room. They also work well in homes with pets, as their leaves are not appealing to chew on for most animals.

Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)

The areca palm, also known as the butterfly palm, is another safe choice for pet-friendly apartments. It is non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it an ideal addition to homes where pets roam freely. This palm thrives in bright, indirect light and can grow well in a container, making it a suitable option for apartment living. Its feathery, arching fronds add a tropical touch to any room, and its size makes it perfect for corners or as a focal point in larger spaces.

Areca palms are relatively low-maintenance, needing only occasional watering when the soil is dry to the touch. They do well in medium to bright light, so they can be placed near a window or in an area with plenty of natural light. Due to their elegant appearance and non-toxic nature, they are an excellent choice for pet owners looking for a plant that complements both their apartment and their furry friends.

Calathea (Calathea spp.)

Calathea plants, known for their striking foliage, are perfect for pet owners who want a non-toxic plant that also adds vibrant colors to their space. These plants are safe for both cats and dogs, making them an ideal option for households with curious pets. Calatheas thrive in moderate to low light and require consistently moist soil, making them well-suited for bathrooms or areas with high humidity.

Although they may require a little more care than other plants, such as ensuring the humidity levels remain high and watering regularly, they reward owners with their beautiful, patterned leaves. Their ability to thrive in smaller spaces like apartments makes them particularly suitable for anyone with limited room. Their stunning foliage also adds a unique element to any interior decor.

Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

The parlor palm is a classic choice for pet-friendly homes, as it is non-toxic and safe for both cats and dogs. This palm grows slowly, making it a great option for apartments where space might be limited. Parlor palms are relatively easy to care for, requiring only indirect light and regular watering when the soil feels dry. Their graceful fronds and compact size make them a popular choice for indoor spaces.

This plant thrives in low-light conditions, making it ideal for apartments with smaller windows or areas that do not get a lot of direct sunlight. The parlor palm’s non-toxic nature means it can be enjoyed by both pet owners and their furry companions, offering a beautiful addition to any pet-friendly apartment.

Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)

Prayer plants are known for their colorful and patterned leaves, which open during the day and fold up at night, resembling hands in prayer. These plants are non-toxic and safe for pets, making them an excellent choice for those with curious cats or dogs. Prayer plants thrive in moderate to low light and prefer slightly moist soil, so they are well-suited for apartment living with less direct sunlight.

Due to their relatively small size and attractive foliage, prayer plants are perfect for smaller spaces. They can be placed on tables, shelves, or in hanging baskets, adding a unique element to the home while keeping pets safe. Their easy care and pet-friendly nature make them a must-have for any pet owner looking to brighten their living space with something vibrant and safe.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavender is a fragrant and beautiful plant that is safe for both cats and dogs. It is non-toxic and can be grown in pots, making it perfect for apartments with limited space. Lavender thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, so it is best placed in an area with plenty of natural light. Its pleasant scent can help create a calming atmosphere in your home, and its beautiful purple flowers add a lovely pop of color.

While lavender does require a bit more attention when it comes to watering, it is generally low-maintenance once it is established. It is especially suited for apartments with a sunny balcony or window, as it needs at least six hours of sunlight per day. Lavender’s pleasant aroma and its ability to thrive in a small space make it a pet-friendly addition to any home.

Succulents (Various species)

Many types of succulents are safe for pets, offering a low-maintenance and stylish option for apartment dwellers. These plants are non-toxic and thrive in small containers, making them ideal for compact spaces. Succulents are perfect for apartments because they require minimal care and can tolerate periods of neglect, which is ideal for busy pet owners.

Succulents prefer bright, indirect light and dry conditions, so they should be watered sparingly. Their small size and various shapes and colors allow for creative arrangements in a variety of containers. Not only do they look great in small spaces, but they are also pet-friendly, making them a safe and easy addition to any pet-friendly apartment.

Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)

The bamboo palm is another pet-friendly plant that can thrive in apartment environments. It is non-toxic to both cats and dogs, providing a safe option for households with curious pets. Bamboo palms grow well in low to moderate light and prefer a humid environment, making them suitable for apartments with a bathroom or kitchen area that can maintain moisture levels.

This palm’s elegant, feathery fronds and upright growth habit make it a beautiful addition to any room. It can thrive in a variety of spaces without taking up too much room, making it an excellent choice for smaller apartments. Bamboo palms are easy to care for and can add a tropical touch to your home while remaining safe for your pets.

Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

The cast iron plant is known for its resilience and ability to thrive in low light and neglect. It is non-toxic to pets, making it a great option for pet owners who want a plant that requires little maintenance. This plant can grow well in a variety of indoor environments, making it ideal for apartment living.

Cast iron plants prefer indirect light and infrequent watering, which makes them a perfect fit for pet owners with busy lifestyles. They are also able to tolerate a range of temperatures and humidity levels, making them adaptable to many different apartment settings. Their sturdy, dark green leaves add a touch of elegance to any room while being safe for pets to be around.

African Violet (Saintpaulia spp.)

African violets are beautiful, non-toxic plants that are safe for both cats and dogs. Their compact size makes them well-suited for small apartments or tight spaces, and they can thrive in a variety of indoor conditions. African violets prefer indirect light and moderate watering, making them a low-maintenance addition to any home.

Their vibrant purple, pink, or white flowers add a pop of color to any room, and their small size makes them ideal for countertops, tables, or windowsills. Because they are safe for pets and easy to care for, African violets make an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a pet-friendly, colorful plant to their apartment.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.