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A garden full of colour and texture looks amazing, but certain plants can be dangerous to pets. It's important to be aware of plants that are pet-friendly so you can cultivate an outdoor garden that's both beautiful and safe.
Emergency veterinarian Dr. Hannah Ritchie (Animal Emergency Service Carrara) says most plants that are toxic to animals require ingestion – your pet needs to eat the plant for it to be a problem. However, other plants can still be dangerous without being ingested. Plants known to be poisonous or hazardous should be labelled accordingly. You could also check the common or scientific name in a list of toxic and non-toxic plants at rspca.org.au or aspca.org.
Avoid cycads if you have dogs (all parts are poisonous and can lead to liver failure and/or be fatal) and lilies if you have cats, advises Dr. Ritchie. If your pet has come into contact with a toxic plant, signs might include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lack of appetite, abnormal heart rate, weakness, hypotension, depression, transient blindness, and seizures. If you notice any of these signs, seek immediate medical attention from your vet or an emergency clinic.
Here are some of the most problematic outdoor plants for pet owners, along with some alternative options for your garden.
1. Azaleas and rhododendrons
This entire plant is dangerous, with moderate levels of toxicity.
Try instead: Magnolias should work well in the same spot in your garden.
2. Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums are pretty to look at, but its toxins make this plant highly problematic for cats. It can also be toxic to dogs, too.
Try instead: Snapdragons add a safe dose of colour.
3. Oleander
All parts of this shrub, including its delicate flowers and sap, are highly toxic to both cats and dogs.
Try instead: Lilly pilly makes for a wonderful screening plant.
4. Lilies
Lilies are toxic to cats. "Even small amounts of ingestion (such as licking pollen) can result in kidney failure," says Dr. Ritchie. Dogs might dig up and eat the bulbs, which are also toxic.
Try instead: Sunflowers are a safe and vibrant option.
5. Bulbs (such as tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths)
The bulbs of these cheery springtime favorites are highly toxic; it's not worth taking a chance on the flowers, either.
Try instead: African daisies come in a range of bright colors. Alternatively, try orchids.
6. Cycads (such as sago palm, zamia, dioon, bowenia, and macrozamia)
Avoid if you have pets – all parts are poisonous. Dogs may try to eat the leaves and fruit, which are toxic.
Try instead: A bird's nest fern makes a great statement in any garden.
Safety tip: Always read plant labels to check if the plant is problematic for pets, and store garden products out of the reach of pets.
These pet-friendly picks will brighten up any indoor or outdoor area.
1. Staghorn fern
This easy-to-care-for fern grows tall and wild, sprouting leaves that look like antlers – hence the name 'staghorn' fern. It can be cultivated in a variety of ways and is a real statement plant.
2. Bromeliad
Bromeliads are brighteners. These hardy, tropical-looking plants grow in a variety of eye-popping colours. Along with being safe for your pet, they are also an easy-care plant, requiring little water and feeding. Depending on the variety, bromeliads will thrive in full shade through to full sun, so check which one is right for your space.
3. Pilea
Pilea is an ornamental plant with large, coin-like foliage that resembles lily pads. This interesting-looking, glossy-green plant thrives indoors and is easy to take care of. Place it in bright, indirect light and water it when the top 2.5 to 5cm of soil feels dry, and you'll have a prosperous pilea in no time.
4. Calathea
Inject some life into your indoor space with this striking-looking plant, the perfect match for pet lovers. Calathea can be fussier than other plants, but once you understand their needs, they're easy to grow and worth it for their beautifully patterned leaves.
5. Banana plant
The banana plant has attractive foliage that will give your home a tropical feel. Its big, bright leaves will also provide a shady spot for your pets to keep cool in summer. It grows best in full sun. (The leaves will all but stop growing when temperatures drop below 15°C.)
Although these plants are considered pet-friendly, it's not a good idea to let your pet consume any plant.
Discover more expert pet advice and D.I.Y. pet projects.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
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