15 Best Indoor Trees – Pet-Friendly Indoor Trees for Dogs and Cats
Meet the Author and Your Future Designer: Julio Arco is a passionate architect with years of experience in architecture, interior design, urban design, and housing. He studied at prestigious universities across North America and Europe.
If you’re looking for the Best Pet-friendly Indoor Trees, hire me or my colleagues to help you. Our collaboration will be a seamless online process, from idea boards to detailed layouts, renderings, and a curated shopping list. Click here to learn more and work with me with 25% off! Learn more About Me, or visit my Portfolio.
Best Pet-Safe Indoor Trees – Video Introduction
If you’re looking for the best indoor trees to add a touch of nature to your home, you are at the right place. While these towering plants may seem like a bit of a daunting undertaking, with a little bit of care and attention, they can make for a beautiful and impactful addition to any space, no matter your home’s interior design style.
One of the great things about indoor trees is that they come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, so you’re sure to find one that fits both your aesthetic and your lifestyle. If you’re worried about maintenance, plenty of low-maintenance options out there only require watering once every week or two. And even if you don’t have a green thumb, there are many species that are known for being resilient and easy to care for.
However, when it comes to choosing the best option, there are a few factors you need to consider. The first is the size of it, and you want to make sure you choose a tree that will fit comfortably in your home. The next thing you need to think about is the climate.
Some trees do better in warmer climates, while others do better in colder climates. Finally, you need to decide what kind you want. There are many different types of indoor trees to choose from, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks. In this blog post, we will discuss the best options for every climate and every type of homeowner!
Additionally, research has shown that having plants in your house will have amazing benefits for you! Visit our article Amazing Psychological Effects of Nature in Pet-Friendly Interiors to find out more! If you want to try smaller houseplants, check out our article on 25 pet-friendly houseplant options!
So before you continue reading, let’s make some preparations first. Consider the following as some food for thought:
Trees Location – Bright Light
Indoor trees are becoming increasingly popular as people look for ways to bring nature into their homes. While there are many factors to consider before purchasing one, one of the most important is finding the right location. Because these plant needs a lot of bright light, they should be placed near a south-facing window or a bright window facing east or west.
Having enough space for your live tree to grow is also essential. Keep in mind that some of them can reach heights of up to 30 feet. Once you’ve found the perfect spot, make sure to water your tree regularly and provide it with the nutrients it needs to thrive. With a bit of care, it will bring beauty and life into your home for years to come.
Plant Leaf Shedding
Indoor trees are a wonderful addition to any home. They not only add a touch of nature, but they can also improve indoor air quality and provide a host of other benefits. However, they can also be messy, shedding leaves and blossoms throughout the year.
While some people don’t mind the occasional leaf on the floor, others prefer to avoid the mess altogether. If you fall into the latter category, you’ll want to choose one that doesn’t shed its leaves. Below is a list of the best options that are known for being tidy.
Of course, even the tidiest indoor trees will shed a few leaves from time to time. To prepare for this, you’ll want to place a mat or tray beneath the tree to catch falling leaves. You may also want to invest in a handheld vacuum with an attachment specifically designed for picking up smaller debris.
Pet Behavior
Dogs love to mark their territory on anything and everything, while cats are infamous for climbing trees. As a result, many pet owners find themselves constantly cleaning up messes or repairing damaged property.
However, you should not have any problems as long as your pets are properly behaved and do not engage in any destructive behaviors such as climbing, urinating, or eating leaves.
Therefore, it is important to do some research before deciding which plants to add to your home landscape. With a little forethought and planning, you can create a beautiful, safe garden with indoor trees safe for pets.
Plant Water Schedule and Maintenance
For most people, houseplants are a relatively low-maintenance addition to their home. However, for those with an indoor tree, there is a bit more care that needs to be taken in order to keep them healthy and vibrant. One of the most important aspects of huge houseplant care is creating a watering schedule.
This can be tricky, as it is difficult to tell when an indoor tree needs water. The best way to determine this is to stick your finger in the soil – if it is dry several inches down, it’s time to water. However, this rule of thumb may need to be adjusted depending on the climate.
In addition to watering, another important aspect of indoor tree care is making sure it gets enough sunlight. Most of these plants require at least six hours of direct sunlight per day in order to stay healthy. If you don’t have a spot that gets that much sunlight in your home, you may need to supplement with grow lights. Regular maintenance such as watering and pruning can make indoor trees a beautiful and low-maintenance addition to your home.
Pests and Diseases
Even the best indoor tree is not immune to pests and diseases. Some of the most common problems include aphids, scale, spider mites, and mealybugs. These pests can cause a variety of problems such as leaf loss, stunted growth, and yellowing leaves.
In addition to pests, they can also be affected by diseases such as powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot. These problems are often caused by too much moisture or poor drainage. As a result, it is important to water your trees only when necessary and to make sure they are getting enough sunlight. So be prepared for this too.
Best indoor trees (Toxic and non-toxic to pets)
1.- Fiddle Leaf Fig – Plant Toxic to pets
Costa Farms Live Indoor Ficus Lyrata, Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree
The fiddle-leaf fig is a popular indoor tree that adds both beauty and elegance to any room. It is easily recognized by its upright, violin-shaped, big, glossy, and densely veined leaves. A fiddle-leaf fig is the ideal focal point for a room if it can be placed in a floor-standing container and allowed to grow to a height of at least 6 feet. Fiddle leaf figs need lots of indirect light and some direct sun.
The Fiddle Leaf Fig is one of the best trees and grows relatively quickly and may be potted at any time of the year if you want to keep it indoors. However, it is important to note that this beautiful plant is not one of our suggested pet-safe indoor trees, as it is poisonous to cats and dogs. If you have pets, you will need to take extra precautions to keep them safe from this potentially harmful plant.
Click here to learn more about fiddle-leaf figs.
2.- Weeping Fig – Toxic to pets
Weeping Fig Standard – Live Plant in a 10 Inch Pot
The weeping fig, also known as the ficus tree, is a huge broadleaf evergreen tree that grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It is more commonly cultivated as a houseplant; however, a weeping fig is often featured in indoor commercial landscaping.
This attractive weeping fig has slender branches that arch gracefully from a light gray stem, and its dark leaves are thick and lustrous. The weeping fig needs a bright room with plenty of indirect sunlight.
When cultivated indoors, a weeping fig is often clipped to a height of 3 to 6 feet. Their trunks are occasionally braided for aesthetic purposes. The weeping fig is a fast-growing plant that may require repotting once a year, preferably in early spring, for optimal growth.
With proper care, this beautiful plant can thrive indoors for many years, bringing a touch of the tropics to any home or office. Keep in mind that this is not one of our recommended indoor trees that are safe for dogs.
Click here to learn more about weeping figs.
3.- Rubber Tree – Pet safe with reservations
Rubber Tree Live Indoor Plant, 24-Inches Tall, Ships in Grower’s Pot
One of the great indoor trees is the Ficus Elastica, often known as the rubber trees, which are a beautiful tropical Southeast Asian species with big, oval-shaped, emerald-colored leaves. It can grow rapidly, reaching heights of up to 100 feet in its natural habitat.
Even though it’s not the easiest plant for beginners to care for because it’s not very tolerant of neglect, it’s more commonly grown inside as a houseplant.
That way, it can be planted and cared for year-round, and its size may be controlled. If you’re thinking about getting a rubber tree or have already gotten one, here are some facts that might be helpful in taking care of your new plant! In terms of caring for rubber trees, maintenance is fairly basic.
It requires sufficient bright light but cannot tolerate direct sunlight. We do recommend this plant in our list of indoor trees safe for dogs, but with some reservations.
A rubber tree prefers warm temperatures but can also tolerate cooler temperatures (as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit). When watering rubber trees, ensure the soil is moist but not soggy. Allow the topsoil to dry out in between watering. Lastly, fertilize your plant every month or so with a balanced fertilizer specifically designed for houseplants.
Click here to learn more about rubber trees.
4.- Banana Tree – Safe for pets
Brighter Blooms – Ice Cream Banana (2-3 ft.)
Japanese banana is a good alternative for gardeners who want the exotic beauty of banana leaves (up to 6 feet long and 2 feet wide) but don’t live in a tropical area. This plant is evergreen in USDA zones 9 to 10, but in zones 5 to 8, it dies in winter and reappears in spring.
Japanese banana can also be grown as a potted plant and brought indoors when chilly. No other banana species is as versatile but doesn’t yield edible fruit. In locations where the plant dies back every winter, it takes 12 to 24 months to yield bananas.
Even in hotter climates, bananas are little, black-seeded, and not especially flavorful. The leafy stems of Japanese bananas emerge from underground corms. Each stem grows for one season, blooms, sets seeds, and then dies. New shoots sprout from the corms in spring. Plant Japanese banana in full sun or part shade in fertile, humus-rich soil that drains well.
Although they like lots of light, they prefer indirect light to direct light. Aim to give your banana plant at least eight hours of light in the winter and at least ten hours in the summer. Banana plants are heavy feeders; fertilize them monthly during the growing season with an all-purpose fertilizer. Water regularly during the growing season; allow the soil to dry out between watering.
This is definitely among our favorite pet-safe indoor trees! Click here to learn more about banana trees.
5.- Hibiscus – Safe for pets with reservations.
Pink Hibiscus Tree – Live Plant in a 3 Gallon Pot
If you’re looking for a plant that will give your garden a taste of the tropics, try growing a resilient hibiscus plant. Hardy hibiscus plants are native to North America and can flourish in a variety of climates. They produce large, ruffled flowers in a variety of colors, including pink, crimson, magenta, and white. Some varieties also have dark-center flowers.
Hardy hibiscus plants are not considered 100% pet friendly due to their flowers. However, they are still a beautiful addition to any garden. Plant hardy hibiscus in spring when frost risk is low. The bushes will produce dinner-plate-sized blooms each summer that attract hummingbirds, dragonflies, and butterflies.
The blooms only last a day or two before they are replenished. Don’t cut a bouquet—hibiscus blooms endure barely a day in a vase. If you’re looking for a tropical addition to your garden, try growing a resilient hibiscus plant. We do recommend this plant as a cat and dog-safe indoor tree, but with some reservations. Click here to learn more about hibiscus.
6.- Yucca – Toxic to pets
Yucca Cane Plant – Live Plant in a 6 Inch Pot
Yucca is a genus of over 40 perennial plants, shrubs, and trees. Still, only a few species are planted as houseplants under the label yucca plant, most notably Yucca gigantea and Yucca aloifolia. Yuccas are native to Mexico and the Caribbean; they are visually appealing, slow-growing plants that are also exceptionally drought tolerant.
Most varieties of yucca will develop into space-consuming monsters over time, but this process takes so long that you’ll have many years to enjoy it as a houseplant before it takes over. All yucca plant parts are known to be harmful to dogs and cats; therefore, pet owners should take care to keep their animals away from these plants as this is not a pet-safe indoor tree.
Despite this potential downside, yucca plants make excellent houseplants for those looking for a low-maintenance plant that can withstand neglect. With proper care, yucca plants can thrive for many years indoors.
Click here to learn more about yucca plants.
7.- Umbrella Tree – Toxic to pets
Most people have heard of the umbrella tree and octopus trees, but did you know that these two names actually refer to two different species? The Umbrella plant, or Schefflera arboricola, is a tropical plant native to Taiwan that is characterized by its glossy, dark green leaves.
Octopus tree, or Schefflera actinophylla, is also a tropical plant native to Taiwan and Australia. Both plants are members of the genus Schefflera and belong to the family Araliaceae. While both plants are similar in many ways, there are some key differences that distinguish them from one another.
For example, umbrella plants have leaves typically 4-5 inches in length, while octopus trees have leaves up to 13 cm in length. In addition, octopus trees generally grow to be taller than umbrella plants, reaching heights of up to 30 feet.
Despite these differences, both plants are popular houseplants due to their striking appearance and ability to thrive indoors. If you’re looking for a unique and eye-catching plant for your home, consider adding an umbrella plant or an octopus tree to your collection!
This plant is known not to be a cat-safe indoor tree. Click here to learn more about umbrella trees.
8.- Norfolk Island Pine – Safe for pets, be aware of needles
Norfolk Island Pine Real Live Plant
Norfolk Island pine is not a true pine tree but rather a relative of the monkey puzzle tree that is frequently planted as a landscaping tree in subtropical climes in North America (USDA zones 10 to 12) and worldwide. It has a relatively straight stem and branches covered with short, inwardly-curving needles, commonly known as leaves.
The Norfolk Island pine tree can grow up to 100 feet tall, but they are typically only 30 to 50 feet tall. They have a light green color, and they turn more yellow-green during the fall and winter. Norfolk Island pines are dioecious trees, which means that there are separate male and female trees.
The male trees have cones that are about 3 inches long, and they are yellow-brown in color. The female cones are much smaller, only about 1 inch in size, and they are red-brown in color.
In other locations, the slow-growing Norfolk Island pine is widely cultivated as a living Christmas tree, which is frequently adorned with ribbons or ornaments. Too frequently, the Christmas tree is thrown after the holiday season. However, it may be simple to repurpose the Norfolk Island pine for another use.
We do love this plant and recommend it as one of our favorite indoor trees that is safe for pets! Click here to learn more about Norfolk island pines.
9.- Money Tree – Safe for pets
Costa Farms Money Tree Pachira, 16-Inches Tall Ships in Ceramic Planter
The money tree, one of our favorite pet-safe indoor trees, is often called Guiana chestnut, is a Central and South American tree that makes a sturdy houseplant. The money tree was popularized as a houseplant in Taiwan in the 1980s and is believed to provide positive “chi” or energy in the household. This makes it popular in workplaces, banks, and residences.
Small money trees with braided trunks of three, five, or seven stems are most prevalent. Nurseries braid young trees and continue to do so as they develop. If you wish to put the tree outside, start it from seed in April. Indoors or out, the trees can grow 24 inches a year.
Money trees are low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions; however, they prefer bright, indirect light. When watering your money tree, allow the soil to dry out completely before giving it a thorough soaking. These tropical plants are also susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites, so be sure to keep an eye out for any signs of pests.
Click here to learn more about money trees.
10.- Palm Tree – Safe for pets, except Sago palm, which is deadly
Costa Farms Majesty Palm Tree, Live Indoor Plant, 3 to 4-Feet Tall
There are a total of 2,600 palm species in the Arecaceae family. This large number is due to the palm’s success in South America, Asia, and the Caribbean. Most palms display broad, evergreen fronds on top of unbranched stems. This key feature has contributed to the plant’s popularity.
In addition to their use as ornamental outdoor plants, palms can also make beautiful indoor plants in warmer regions. Mature palms offer a tropics-inspired touch to public spaces and foyers, while small, immature palms can add foliage to dwellings.
Although they are often thought of being tropical plants that thrive with plenty of sun and water, some desert types of palms drown in too much water, and others need fertilizer. As a result, growing a palm successfully requires careful research into the specific species’ needs.
While most Palms are dog and cat-safe, be careful with the Sago Palm, which is not a pet-safe indoor tree. Click here to learn more about palm trees.
11.- False Aralia – Safe for pets
Lively Root Aralia Ming Stump in 10 inch Grower Pot, Easy Care Live Houseplant, Feng Shui Shrub Tree
False Aralia, also known as the Elegant plerandra, is one of the best indoor trees that are safe for dogs and cats. It is a strikingly beautiful houseplant that can add a touch of class and sophistication to any home. False Aralias are native to the South Pacific. They can be grown year-round in USDA hardiness zones 10 through 12 with little to no effort.
These plants are slow-growing, which means they remain manageable as houseplants for many years. False Aralias typically have burgundy or copper-colored leaves with deeply serrated margins that mature to a dark green hue. The juvenile leaves of this plant are usually more textured than those of the mature plant, which tend to be more deeply lobed.
Although the mature plant can reach a height of 6 feet, it makes an excellent houseplant due to its slow growth rate. False Aralia is a popular choice for indoor gardens and makes an excellent addition to any home.
Click here to learn more about false aralias.
12.- Bird of Paradise – Toxic to pets
Costa Farms White Bird of Paradise
The bird of paradise, or strelitzia, is a beautiful and popular tropical flower that is related to the banana plant, and while we love how it looks, we don’t recommend it as a pet-safe indoor tree.
It grows quickly and is relatively easy to care for, making it a great choice for those who want to add a touch of the tropics to their home. The plant gets its name from its striking resemblance to the bird of the same name, and its brightly colored flowers add a splash of vibrant color to any setting.
Bird of paradise plants are typically found in shades of orange and blue, but they can also be found in other colors such as pink and purple. These plants thrive when they are placed outside in the summer months, but they can also be kept indoors if necessary.
However, one thing to keep in mind is that bird of paradise plants can reach up to 12 feet in height, so make sure you have enough space before you add one to your home.
Click here to learn more about the bird of paradise.
13.- Citrus trees such as a Lemon tree or Orange tree- Toxic to pets
Although lemons are native to Asia, these citrus trees have an unknown origin. They first appeared in Italy and the Mediterranean in the 2nd century and eventually made their way to other parts of the world. Today, lemon trees can be found in USDA Zones 8-11 and are prized for their fragrant flowers and tart fruit.
Lemon trees are fairly easy to care for, but there are a few things to keep in mind if you want your tree to thrive. First, make sure that your tree is getting enough bright light. Lemon trees need at least six hours of sun per day, so if you live in a colder climate, you may need to place your tree near a south-facing window.
Second, water your lemon tree regularly, but be careful not to overdo it – too much water can cause the roots to rot. Finally, fertilize your lemon tree every few months to ensure that it is getting the nutrients it needs. With a little care, you can enjoy fresh lemons right from your home!
Click here to learn more about lemon trees.
14.- Dragon Tree – Toxic to pets
Lively Root Red Leaf Dragon Plant (Dracaena)
Dracaena marginata, also known as the dragon tree, is an evergreen shrub that is native to Madagascar. It is characterized by its green leaves that have crimson edges and resemble swords. The slow-growing plant can be planted at any time of the year and produces tiny white blooms in the spring.
It prefers well-lit areas but can also tolerate low light conditions. Although it is drought tolerant, it should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. It is important to note that the leaves are poisonous if ingested, so this plant should be kept away from pets and children. Overall, the dragon tree is an excellent starter plant for home gardeners due to its low maintenance and indestructibility.
Click here to learn more about dragon trees.
15.- Lady Palm – Non-toxic to pets
The lady palm (Rhapis excelsa) is a small palm species that is often grown as an indoor pet-safe houseplant. It is characterized by slender, erect green stems that grow in thick bunches. On the stems are glossy, green, fan-shaped fronds with five to eight slender, lance-shaped segments each.
The lady palm is exceptionally tolerant of low-light settings, making it a popular indoor cultivation choice. It is ideally planted in the spring at the beginning of the growing season. However, houseplants can typically be begun throughout the year. This palm grows at a rate of less than one foot per year, making it a somewhat slow-growing plant.
Despite its slow growth habit, the lady palm can reach heights of up to 10 feet when grown in ideal conditions. When cultivated as a houseplant, it is typically restricted to a height of six feet or less. Overall, the lady palm is an attractive and low-maintenance plant that makes a great addition to any indoor space.
Click here to learn more about lady palms.
Spruce your Home with Indoor Plants.
After researching and looking into pet-friendly indoor trees, it’s evident that they are a great addition to any home. It is essential to take the needed steps to arrange plants properly, cared for, and maintained correctly to get the most out of your houseplants.
From determining how to arrange plants and avoiding common mistakes with your plants to looking into plant care tips and finding the perfect spot for each houseplant – including its toxicity levels – there are so many things you can do when caring for them houseplants.
Additionally, when looking at where to buy affordable houseplants and the latest trends in houseplant design, you should always know how to get rid of pests if they become an issue.
Determine sunlight levels for your houseplants so that it gets enough light. For hanging plants, humidity levels must be considered, as well as using humidifiers or talking “to” your houseplant if necessary.
Natural light versus grow lights may also be useful depending on the environment, and don’t forget about using a moisture meter! Lastly, consider adding pet-friendly indoor trees in a hanging garden set-up. With these tips and tricks considered, you can create an inviting environment filled with beautiful and lush houseplants!
Hire an Online Interior Designer at Havenly
There are several online interior design websites, but Havenly is your best option to hire from a robust list of interior designers that will help you in decorating and creating the perfect dog-friendly home. When you sign up for Havenly, you will take a short quiz about your design style and what you are looking for in a designer. Havenly will then match you with a designer who will help you select paint colors, furniture, and accessories that are both stylish and safe for your furry friend.
In addition, your Havenly designer will be able to provide tips on how to create a space that is both comfortable for your dog and inviting for guests. With Havenly, creating a beautiful and functional home that your dog will love is easy and stress-free.
Click here if you want to learn more about Havenly or book an interior designer and get 25% off your design package if you click here!
