Toxic Houseplants: Identification and Safety for Homes with Children and Pets

While houseplants enhance indoor spaces, many common varieties pose serious risks to curious children and pets. The National Poison Control Center advises against keeping toxic plants in homes with small children or animals. Toxicity ranges from mild irritation to life-threatening organ failure.

Highly Toxic Common Houseplants

Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii)

All parts toxic; milky sap causes severe blistering on skin/eyes. Even flower nectar is poisonous.

Caladium (Elephant Ear)

Entire plant toxic, especially leaves. Ingestion causes mouth/throat burning, swelling, eye pain, GI distress, breathing difficulty, potential coma/death, and possible kidney/liver damage.

English Ivy (Hedera helix)

Ingestion causes breathing difficulty, convulsions, vomiting, paralysis, coma. Skin contact may irritate.

Jerusalem Cherry (Solanum pseudocapsicum)

Red/orange berries (resemble tomatoes) are most toxic. Causes stomach pain, vomiting, headache, dilated pupils, drowsiness, diarrhea, delirium, coma. Highly toxic to dogs, cats, birds.

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Mouth ulceration, drooling, choking, swelling, vomiting. Even small amounts dangerous to pets.

Additional Toxic Varieties

• Philodendron, Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
• Sago Palm, Oleander
• Azalea, Rhododendron
• Daffodil, Hyacinth bulbs
• Mistletoe, Holly berries
• Snake Plant, Pothos
• Calla Lily, Peace Lily
• Asparagus Fern

Safe Alternatives

Choose non-toxic plants like spider plant, Boston fern, African violet, prayer plant, peperomia, or parlor palm. Always research before purchasing, and keep toxic plants completely inaccessible if you must have them.

Emergency: If ingestion occurs, call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222 US) or veterinarian immediately. Bring plant sample for identification.