Houseplants are an on-trend aesthetic feature to have in the home right now, and they also boast a number of health benefits such as air purification. However, certain species of plants can actually pose a threat.

2 Caladium

Caladium houseplants often have large colourful leaves and are part of the Araceae family.

This plant is also known as Elephant’s Ear or Angel’s Wing.

However, parts of the plant are considered to be toxic to humans and animals if chewed or swallowed.

Symptoms in humans after ingestion include painful burning and swelling of the mouth, tongue, lips and throat.

In worst-case situations, difficulty in breathing or swallowing can lead to blocked airways causing death.

In cats and dogs, symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, staggering, head shaking, drooling, and difficulty breathing.

3 Pothos

Pothos is also often referred to as Devil’s Ivy and is a green leafy plant.

According to the plant experts: “Although this plant can be poisonous, it is known for being one of the best plants for removing impurities from the air.

“Luckily, it is only mildly harmful in small quantities, but can be serious in larger quantities.”

Symptoms in humans after ingesting include burning of the mouth, skin irritation, swelling of lips, tongue, and throat, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

In pets, such as cats and dogs, symptoms can include drooling, choking, swelling of the mouth and tongue, difficulty breathing, and stomach upset.

In a worst-case scenario, ingestion of the Pothos plant can lead to renal failure and/or death.

4 Peace Lily

The beautiful Peace Lily is a popular houseplant, but is also listed as one of the “most dangerous”.

Though it is named “lily” it is not a “true lily” due to the fact it isn’t part of the Liliaceae family.

However, it can still be poisonous.

B Well CBD said: “Whilst it does make a great air purifier and is ideal for apartments or rooms with little light.

“They can cause death if ingested by either humans or animals.”

Symptoms in humans can include burning and swelling of lips, mouth, and tongue, difficulty speaking or swallowing, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhoea.

In cats and dogs, symptoms that have been recorded include a burning mouth, excessive salivation, diarrhoea, dehydration, lack of appetite, and vomiting. Left untreated, peace-lily poisoning could lead to renal failure.

However, the experts note that there is “some conflict” in reports.

5 Philodendron

Though Philodendrons are rather easy plants to grow and maintain, they contain calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic to humans and animals.

In humans, ingesting a small amount will only have mild side effects including a dermatitis reaction in both adults and children.

However, according to the plant experts, in rare cases, it has caused fatalities in children.

Philodendron has a much more serious effect on pets, with reports of spasms, seizures, pain, and swelling. It seems to be more toxic to cats.

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Originally Appeared Here