Six Stunning Pet-Safe Houseplants

African Violets

Though these are native to the tropical rainforests of East Africa, African Violets have become hugely popular houseplants! They’re compact, low-growing plants with thick, dark-green, velvety leaves with dainty flowers blooming in the center.

They come in a wide variety of colors including whites, blues, pinks, reds and purples. If cared for properly, they will continuously flower year-round.

When caring for these flowers, be sure to provide them with bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Water them consistently, but avoid getting water on their leaves.

Calathea

Calathea is a wide genus of plants belonging to the family Marantaceae. They are known for their large, colorfully-patterned variegated leaves.

At nighttime, calathea’s leaves fold up due to a phenomenon called nyctinasty. In the morning, they unfurl in search of the sun. Calathea is a close relative to the Prayer Plant, which also folds at night.

Provide them with bright, indirect light, a well-draining potting mix, and warm temperatures between 65-85°F. They like consistent watering and occasional misting to increase the humidity.

Neanthe Bella Palm

Also known as the Parlor Palm, these petite palms add a touch of the tropics to any household! They’re known for their leafy green fronds and their easy-to-care-for nature.

Did you know? Neanthe Bella Palms are air purifying! They are particularly effective at filtering out benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene. These plants are perfect for anyone seeking to improve their indoor air quality with a pretty palm.

Though these are low-maintenance plants, be sure to supply them with bright, indirect light, well-draining soil and monthly fertilizing during spring and summer. Be sure to water them when the top inch of soil dries out and mist them frequently for increased humidity.

Peperomia

Peperomias are known for their interesting and varied foliage. It ranges from smooth and glossy to textured and comes in shades of green, silver, red and many variegated patterns. Their leaves are thick and fleshy because they store water, making them drought-tolerant plants.

Peperomias are native to tropical and subtropical regions, including Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean.

These plants are relatively easy to care for. They like bright, indirect light, so East-facing windows are generally the best place for them. They prefer well-draining soil that dries out slightly between waterings.

Phalaenopsis Orchid

Phalaenopsis Orchids, more commonly known as Moth Orchids, are known for their stunning long branches of flowers in an array of vibrant hues and thick, dark green leaves.

Did you know? Orchids grow on every continent, except Antarctica. About 70% of the world's orchids are epiphytes, meaning they grow on trees and other plants.

For best growth results, place your orchid in indirect light, preferably an east-facing window. To water them, place them in a sink and run warm water over it in 3-4 short rinses over 10 minutes, allowing gradual absorption.

Spider Plants
This well-known houseplant boasts arching green leaves with white or cream variegation in the middle. Spider plants are super easy to care for, as they can tolerate various light and watering conditions, making them perfect for beginners.

Spider plants get their name from its leggy appearance as well as growing plantlets which are known as “spiderettes” or “pups.” These little plants can easily be propagated to create new spider plants.

To care for this leafy and leggy plant, place it in a spot with bright, indirect light. Water your spider plant thoroughly once a week when the top two inches of soil dry out.