Why
The areca palm (Dypsis lutescens), also called butterfly palm, is non-toxic to pets, making it one of the safest large houseplants.
Do not confuse it with the sago palm, which looks somewhat similar but is highly toxic and can cause liver failure.
How to recognize it
Clusters of slender, yellow-green, bamboo-like stems carry long, feathery, arching fronds. Unlike the toxic sago palm, it has no stiff, spiky rosette of fronds and no short, thick trunk.
What to do
- Check the plant label for the botanical name when buying any palm.
- Pets that chew a lot of fronds may still vomit, so discourage chewing.
Toxic plants to tell apart from it
These look similar or are often sold alongside it. Check the label before buying.
Related plants
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List (dogs, cats).
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Toxicology section.
If your pet has eaten a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away and bring a photo or piece of the plant. In the US you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply).