Plants
As the days get longer and the earth begins to "go green," few can resist the urge to start planting. It is important to choose plants carefully since some plants can be potentially harmful if eaten or handled incorrectly.
Basic Plant Safety Rules
Plants are a wonderful and pleasing addition to both home and garden. With a little care in selection, you can enjoy them and be safe. For a more complete list of toxic and non-toxic plants, contact The Poison Control Center.
- Know the scientific and common names of all your plants.
- Do not make teas or home remedies from plants.
- Do not think that plants and shrubs eaten by birds and animals are safe for human consumption!
- Use protective gloves or clothing when handling potentially irritating plants.
- Keep all plants out of the reach of children.
- Contact your physician or Poison Control Center if you have symptoms or questions after any exposure to plants.
Learn More
Poisonous plants
Plants that irritate
Non-Toxic Plants
Non-toxic plants do not contain potentially dangerous chemicals. However, they may present a risk for choking or stomach upset, particularly for young children.
- African Violet
- Aster
- Baby's Breath
- Baby's Tears
- Begonia
- Boston Fern
- Christmas Cactus
- Crab Apple
- Dracaena
- Easter Cactus
- Echeveria (Hens-and Chickens)
- Gardenia
- Hibiscus
- Honeysuckle
- Hosta
- Hoya
- Jade Plant
- Kalanchoe
- Lilac
- Lilies: Day, Easter, Tiger
- Magnolia
- Peperomia
- Petunia
- Prayer Plant
- Spider Plant
- Swedish Ivy
- Violets