Non-toxic plants for babies and children — a green and safe home

The arrival of a baby or the presence of young children at home naturally raises the question: which plants are safe? The good news is that there are many non-toxic species, just as beautiful and varied as others, that allow you to keep a green interior without any worries.

Why are some plants toxic?

Many common houseplants contain irritating or toxic substances if ingested: Dieffenbachia, Philodendron, Pothos, Spathiphyllum, and Euphorbia, among others, can cause mouth irritation, nausea, or skin reactions. For a young child exploring the world by putting everything in their mouth, the risk is real, although the severity is generally low. Our article toxic plants: complete guide to protecting children and pets covers each species in detail.

The best non-toxic plants for a home with children

Calathea is the safety champion: all varieties are non-toxic, and its graphic foliage fascinates children as much as adults — the leaves folding up at night are a captivating sight for little ones. The Chlorophytum (spider plant) is just as safe and produces hanging baby plants that entertain children. Pilea peperomioides with its coin-shaped leaves, Maranta and Ctenanthe with their colorful patterns, and compact Peperomia complete the selection. Discover our collections of Calathea, Maranta, Ctenanthe, and Pilea.

Ferns: safe and spectacular

All the ferns in our catalog are non-toxic. Nephrolepis (Boston fern) with its drooping fronds, Asplenium (bird’s nest fern) with its large wavy leaves, Phlebodium (blue fern), and Platycerium (staghorn fern) offer a variety of shapes and textures safely. They enjoy humidity and tolerate partial shade — ideal for a child’s room. Explore our collections of Asplenium and Phlebodium.

Non-toxic plants for the baby’s room

The baby’s room requires plants that are non-toxic, thorn-free, non-allergenic pollen producers, and low mess. Calathea, Chlorophytum, and ferns check all the boxes. Place them out of reach of little hands: on a wall shelf or in a hanging planter. Avoid clay pebbles on the soil surface (risk of ingestion) — coconut fiber mulch is safer. Also check out our plants for the bedroom collection and our article houseplants for every room.

Non-toxic palms: volume with safety

Want a large plant in the family living room? Almost all palms are non-toxic. Chamaedorea (parlor palm), Kentia (Howea forsteriana), Dypsis (Areca palm), and Livistona add volume and a tropical touch with no risk for children. Discover our large XXL plants collection.

Non-toxic plants and pets: also compatible

All the plants in this selection are also non-toxic for cats and dogs. If you have both children and pets, this collection makes life easier: one selection criterion for the whole family. Explore our dedicated collections of pet-friendly plants, indoor pet-friendly plants, and easy-care non-toxic plants, and read our guide plants and pets: guide for safe and successful coexistence.

Introducing children to gardening

Fast-growing and easy plants are perfect for giving children responsibility for their first plant. Chlorophytum, which produces babies, Pilea, which sends out offsets to share, and non-toxic succulents (Haworthia, some Echeveria) that root easily — all great opportunities for learning and pride. Check out our complete propagation guide and our easy-care plants collection.