Avoiding Epipremnum Aureum: Pet-Safe Trailing Plants for Your Houseplant Collection

by John Colby 11/02/2022

For some pet owners, hanging plants in baskets is not always enough to keep animals safe from eating them. Trailing plants such as epipremnum aureum and philodendron are beautiful and easy to care for, but toxic to cats and dogs if their vines hang down to nibbling height. Luckily, there are options for non-toxic trailing plants you can grow at home without worrying about fallen leaves or hanging vines making your animals sick. Here are some suggestions to consider:

Hoya Carnosa

Hoyas are also called wax plants because of their thick, glossy leaves. There are dozens of species of hoya and most of them have trailing or climbing growth patterns. The hoya carnosa is the most commonly grown as a houseplant, both in its regular form and the various multi-colored cultivars. These vines are vigorous growers and well-loved for their ease of care and resistance to pests. They're also completely safe for pets, so you can let them trail from their planters without fear of making your animals sick.

String of Hearts

String of hearts is a unique trailing plant perfect for pet owners. As the name suggests, this plant has heart-shaped leaves growing on delicate vines. While it won't climb on its own, it makes a great plant to train up onto a decorative trellis. Otherwise, the plant grows best when allowed to hang down from its container. String of hearts have care needs similar to succulents: water infrequently and provide plenty of bright light.

Peperomia Hope

The peperomia genus contains a wide variety of favorite houseplants, all of which are safe for pets. While most have an upright or bushy growth habit, the peperomia hope is a vibrant trailing plant you can hang from baskets or allow to cascade over a shelf. Peperomia like moist soil but are very prone to root rot. Therefore, it's essential to water carefully and not plant them in too large a container. Peperomia hope's small, rich green leaves make a cheerful and easy-growing addition to your home without putting your pets at risk.

About the Author
Author

John Colby

I have lived in the Athol-Orange-Phillipston  area for most of my life. I graduated from the Athol-Royalston Schools and Boston College in 1973.  I have been an active real estate  Broker since 1973.. I have First hand knowledge of all the various aspects of working and living in our area.
For over 40 years I have  maintained a presence in the real estate market through building new homes while buying and selling all types of real estate. I offer first hand knowledge and experience to Buyers and Sellers in our unique market area . I also have a keen interest in Waterfront properties, land and income properties. We are also currently focused on bringing new businesses into our area including  Commercial , Mixed Use and Retail Development along the Rt 2 corridor including into the North Quabbin Business Park and the Greater Gardner to Athol-Orange areas.
   I will to give you the benefit of my training and experience and the most personal service and attention that you deserve.