Enjoy a verdant escape in your home or community garden, but beware! Not all leafy companions are as innocent as they seem. Some plant species can be harmful, and it's crucial to be aware of them to mitigate potential health risks.
The silent threat: Indoor and outdoor plants to avoid
When it comes to decorating our homes, terraces and communal gardens, plants are an irresistible attraction. Their undeniable benefits range from air purification and humidity regulation to aesthetic appeal and emotional well-being. Yet behind these benefits, some species hide a darker side, presenting health risks due to their toxic, poisonous or allergenic nature. According to the leading property developer in Spain and Portugal, Kronos Homes, over 60 plants in this region can adversely affect the health of humans and animals. So it's essential to know which ones to avoid.
Dangerous plants often lurk in homes and gardens, posing potential risks especially to pets, children and allergy sufferers. Replacing these plants with non-harmful alternatives can help maintain the beauty of your green spaces while ensuring safety. Let's take a look at a list of indoor and outdoor plants to avoid.
Indoor plants: Hidden dangers in your home
There are some magnificent houseplants whose beauty and aesthetic contribution to interior design are indisputable, but they pose a threat to our health. This danger is intensified in the presence of young children and pets, who may ingest them unwittingly. Here's a list of some of the most dangerous houseplants:
The “Monstera Deliciosa” or “Adam's rib”, is distinguished by its impressive leaves, but ingesting it can lead to serious symptoms such as swelling of the tongue and throat, breathing difficulties and convulsions.
“Spathiphyllum”, commonly known as “Moses' cradle” or “peace lily”. Despite its popular role as an air purifier, ingestion can cause vomiting, nausea, diarrhea and difficulty speaking or swallowing. In dogs, it can cause digestive disorders.
Aloe Vera” is a plant much appreciated for its medicinal properties. However, it can cause severe poisoning in dogs and cats if ingested.
Outdoor plants: A risk in your garden
Moving outdoors, there are also many plants to avoid. Here are some of the most dangerous:
Aconite” is an ornamental plant that can cause nausea, vomiting, palpitations and, in some cases, death.
Chrysanthemum” can aggravate allergies due to its pollen, and can intensify symptoms in those suffering from atopic dermatitis. Here are some other common plants to avoid if you're allergic:
Outdoors: Common alder, birch, grasses, jasmine, juniper, olive, privet, chestnut, poplar, and plane tree.Indoors: Dahlias, daisies, sunflowers, jasmine, and lilac.
Be vigilant: safety tips for dangerous plants
In terms of plant safety, the experts at Kronos Homes suggest the following tips:
Keep plants out of reach of children and pets. Place them in inaccessible places to avoid unnecessary fright, as neglect can have serious consequences.
Beware of soil ingestion. If a child or pet consumes soil, wash out their mouth with water and contact the Toxicological Information Service.
If your pet ingests a plant, take him to a vet with a sample of the plant.
Protect your loved ones from dangerous plants by staying aware and vigilant!
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