Areca Palm
Areca palms are pet-friendly, low-maintenance houseplants that are perfect for beginners. The pretty tropical trees enjoy bright, indirect light, but can also tolerate low light. When the top inch of soil is dry, water the plant thoroughly, and your palm could grow to eight feet (although four feet is more common).
Spider Plant
You may have seen a spider plant in your grandma’s house or may have been gifted one by a friend. This eternally popular plant makes a lovely hanging decoration and is safe for curious pets and children. The “babies” that hang off the growing vines can be planted to create new plants, giving you a wonderful source for quick gifts.
Venus Fly Trap
This fun and interesting plant is perfectly safe for pets and children, and can eradicate any stray flies in your apartment! Fertilizer and distilled water will keep these plants happy and healthy, but the occasional fly that wanders into your apartment makes for a special treat (and an interesting show).
Calathea
Calathea spp. plants are also often called zebra plants or peacock plants. Large tropical leaves with fascinating stripes or stippling add delightful accents to your apartment décor, and work perfectly in less sunny spots in your apartment – too much light can damage and bleach the plants.
Orchid
If you always forget to water your house plants and crave some extra color during the winter months, orchids are an excellent answer to your houseplant woes. These pretty plants usually flower during the winter months when the days are short, and they require very little watering.
Bromeliad
Easy to maintain and pet-safe, the bromeliad needs only a bright window and an occasional misting for humidity. Bromeliads will grow without soil by attaching to a log, making them an attractive option for pets that like to dig in potting soil.
Always be careful when introducing a new plant into your home or apartment. If you are not sure about a plant’s safety, try hanging it or keeping it out of your pet’s reach. You can also check to see if the plant is poisonous on the House Plant Expert site by clicking here.
If you are afraid your pet may have ingested a poisonous plant, please visit the ASPCA Poison Control Center or call their hotline at 888-426-4435 immediately. If your child has eaten a poisonous plant, you should visit the American Association of Poison Control Centers or call 800-222-1222.
These simple, pretty plants will make your apartment healthier and more attractive without adding to your worries. Start adding a little green today!
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