Plants are, in my opinion, some of the best solutions for brightening up a tiny, cramped apartment. However, it can be really difficult to find houseplants that are both suitable for an indoor environment, within a college budget, and safe for you and your pets. Here are five of my favorite non-toxic plant options for when you want to spruce up your space without having to hide them from your furry friends.
- Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia)
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While rubber trees are highly toxic, the miniature versions are perfectly safe– and super cute! Personally, I’ve found that this plant is really easy to care for and a perfect addition to any windowsill or desk!
Care: Medium to bright sunlight, water once or twice per week
- Cat grass (Dactylis glomerata)
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As implied by the name, the only danger of putting out a pot of cat grass is that your pet may love it too much! This plant is commonly sold in pet stores as a treat for your pets.
Care: Natural light, mist lightly when dry
- Angel’s Tears (Soleirolia soleirolii)
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This plant goes by many other names, including baby’s tears, Paddy’s wig, and — my personal favorite — “mind-your-own-business” plants. Whatever you choose to call it, this Meditteranean beauty’s trailing vines and tiny white blooms are totally safe for your furry friends.
Care: Bright and filtered light, water every 5-7 days
- Purple Waffle Plant (Hemigraphis alternata)
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I’ll admit, I had never heard of this plant before stumbling across it while on the hunt for a new bit of greenery. It was love at first sight! This plant is super unique, extremely cute, and has a very cool name. What’s more, it is perfectly safe for you and your pets!
Care: Medium to bright light, keep soil moist
- Fluffy Ruffle Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
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As the newest member of my household, this fern has really brightened up my teeny-tiny apartment. It is perfect as a hanging plant and is apparently very easy to propagate. The more, the merrier!
Care: Indirect light, keep soil moist
So there you have it, folks. Make sure to remember these names as spring rolls around; your pets and your inner interior designer will thank you for it!