Pet Friendly Plants

No, garden pea plants are non-toxic to dogs. Pea plants belong to the Fabaceae family. These legumes have edible sphere-shaped yellow or green seeds. They are used as a vegetable for soup, porridge, and more. Wikipedia reports that garden peas (or English peas) are a type of peas picked while immature and eaten fresh.   Garden… Continue reading Are Garden Pea Plants Toxic to Dogs?

Some tropical plants are toxic to dogs.  Wikipedia describes tropical plants as “any vegetation in tropical latitudes.” These pertain to plants that grow in regions surrounding the Equator—areas with warm climates all year round. Some places may have long dry spells, while others experience rain throughout the year.  Tropical vegetation is often described as lush… Continue reading Are Tropical Plants Toxic to Dogs?

Yes, chili pepper plants are toxic to dogs.  Chili peppers are the spicy fruits of pepper plants from the Capsicum genus. They belong to the family Solanaceae, which includes bell peppers, potatoes, and tomatoes. Whether used in fresh form or dried and crushed into powder, chili peppers are used as a spice to add heat… Continue reading Are Chili Plants Toxic to Dogs?

No, celosia plants are not toxic to cats. Also called woolflowers or cockscomb, Celosia comes from the Greek word kelos, which means burned. The description pertains to their fiery-looking and elongated blooms. Some Celosia varieties are grown as houseplants, while others are cultivated as leafy green vegetables. Cat owners will be happy to know that… Continue reading Are Celosia Plants Toxic to Cats?

No, Swedish ivy plants are non-toxic to cats.  Swedish ivy is a plant with two scientific names: Plectranthus verticillatus and Plectranthus nummularius. It is not a true ivy plant belonging to the genus Hedera. Instead, it is classified under the genus Plectranthus. Despite being named Swedish ivy, it is native to South Africa. Its other… Continue reading Are Swedish Ivy Plants Toxic to Cats?

Yes, panda plants are toxic to cats.  Panda plants are succulents known for their fuzzy grey-green leaves with brown-coloured tips. Scientifically called Kalanchoe tomentosa, the plant is classified under the family Crassulaceae and is native to Madagascar. It goes by other names such as black tie, chocolate soldier, golden girl, and teddy bear.  Succulent Plant… Continue reading Are Panda Plants Toxic to Cats?

Some pitcher plants are mildly toxic to cats.  Pitcher plant is a general term for carnivorous plants with modified leaves that resemble liquid-holding jugs. Called pitfall traps, the unique foliage contains nectar that can digest the prey it manages to capture. Plant families that have pitcher plants include Sarraceniaceae and Nepenthaceae.  The American Society for… Continue reading Are Pitcher Plants Toxic to Cats?

Yes, hyacinth plants are toxic to cats.  Hyacinth, or Hyacinthus orientalis, is known for its tall, fragrant, colourful flowers that bloom in springtime. Its other monikers include common hyacinth, Dutch hyacinth, or garden hyacinth. Belonging to the family Asparagaceae, the genus natively grows in the eastern Mediterranean region, particularly in countries such as Palestine and… Continue reading Are Hyacinth Plants Toxic to Cats?

Some succulent plants are toxic to dogs.  Succulents are defined by Wikipedia as “plants with parts that are thickened, fleshy, and engorged.” These swollen leaves, stems, and roots help them hold water, so they can survive in areas with high temperatures, scarce water, and even rocky soil conditions. These days, many homeowners grow succulents because… Continue reading Are Succulent Plants Toxic to Dogs?

No, zinnia plants are non-toxic to dogs. Belonging to the family Asteraceae, zinnia plants are native to scrub and grassland areas in the southwest area of the United States and South America. They are recognisable for their long-stemmed, 12-petaled flowers in vibrant colours. Sensitive to frost, zinnia plants thrive in areas with lots of sunlight.… Continue reading Are Zinnia Plants Toxic to Dogs?

No, shrimp plants are non-toxic to dogs. Wikipedia lists two plant species that are called shrimp plants. These are the Justicia brandegeeana and the Pachystachys lutea. The two evergreen shrubs both belong to the Acanthaceae family—the same family as the canine-safe nerve plants. However, the two differ in plant genus and flower colour. Justicia brandegeeana… Continue reading Are Shrimp Plants Toxic to Dogs?

No, nerve plants are non-toxic to dogs. Also called silver nerve, mosaic plant, jewel plant, and silver threads, nerve plants belong to the genus Fittonia. This type of evergreen flowering plant is native to tropical rainforests in South America such as Peru. They can grow as much as six inches tall, with fuzzy stems and… Continue reading Are Nerve Plants Toxic to Dogs?