Pets are part of the family. They spend time with us inside so we need our indoor plant selections to be the right choices to keep them safe and out of harm’s way. Rest assured your fur babies will be happy and healthy with these cat and dog safe indoor plants.
1. Chlorophytum comosum – Spider Plant
One of the best indoor plants you’ll come across. These plants can become weeds in the garden due to their penchant for spreading via the small plantlets which grow at the ends of their arching stems. Indoors though, these plants can thrive given fairly basic conditions and they don’t pose the problem of escaping into areas where they’re not wanted.
Find out moreNephrolepis exaltata – Boston Fern
When it comes to ferns, the Boston Fern is definitely one of the most well known. This fern grows quite quickly, producing lovely long, dark green fronds which cascade over the pot. Suitable for pots or hanging baskets, the Boston Fern makes an excellent addition to the bathroom where it thrives in the humid conditions.
Peperomia spp. – Radiator Plant
The Radiator Plant is one of the most popular indoor plants in Australia. The most readily available varieties grow to a height of about 20cm and produce waxy looking leaves in various shapes and sizes. Some have a compact growth habit while others are more trailing. Leaves can be smooth to deeply ridged in a multitude of colours. All are certainly interesting to behold.
Find out moreAspidistra elatior – Cast Iron Plant
As the name suggests, the Cast Iron Plant can withstand almost any treatment. It tolerates low light and given a little care, this plant can thrive indoors. It’s large, dark green leaves can grow to approximately 50cm long. Aspidistra shines when teamed with more delicately foliaged plants and its broad leaves have even been used as a decorative base to serve sushi.
Saintpaulia ionantha – African Violet
Arguably the most popular of all the indoor plants due to the large range of flower forms and colours. Single, semi-double and double flowers are available in white all the way through to pink, mauve, magenta and purple. The leaves are succulent-like and feel quite velvety due to the coverage of silky hairs. These plants are suitable for high to medium light areas and will not flower if placed in a low light position.
Chamaedorea elegans – Parlour Palm
The Parlour Palm is a great feature plant indoors if given the right care. These palms have a clumping habit with attractive soft, green foliage that will grow to around 60 -70cm in height. It will cope in a lower light position but prefers a spot with indirect light (direct sunlight will burn the leaves). Keep the soil moist but do not over-water or let the plant stand in water.
Fittonia albivenis – Nerve Plant
Commonly known as the Nerve Plant due to its distinct veins, this plant can be a little high maintenance. Quite often incorporated into terrariums, it requires high humidity to thrive and will soon drop dead if it becomes too wet or too dry. Growing to around 15cm in height, it is quite the sight when teamed with other plants with glossy green foliage (eg, Peperomia sp.). Fussy but worth a crack.
Calathea sp. – Peacock Plant
Grown for its colourful foliage, the Peacock Plant is definitely eye-catching. There are many cultivars available in various colours, heights and leaf shape. They look quite striking when grouped with smaller, green foliaged plants. Medium light levels are sufficient for these plants to do well. If you keep the soil moist during the warmer months and allow the mix to dry out between waterings in Winter, Calathea will certainly reward you.
Phalaenopsis sp. – Moth Orchid
Orchids generally have a long flowering period, making them excellent specimens for indoor colour and interest. With so many shades to choose from, the orchid compliments any room. They are very adaptable plants with broad leaves which are attractive in their own right when the plant is not flowering. Requiring plenty of light, these gems are not to be kept in a gloomy spot. Give them plenty of light but no direct sunlight. Water requirements will depend on the weather. In hot weather, they will require regular water, in Winter it could be once every 2 weeks.
Bromelia sp. – Bromeliads
Bromeliads can be quite the talking point with their sword-shaped foliage and a unique looking flower that grows from the centre of the plant. They grow best in very bright indirect light but will survive in lower light levels (although may not flower). It is important to keep the central ‘vase’ full of water during warm months. Water less often during Winter.
All plants are readily available from your local nursery or nearby Bunnings Warehouse.
