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If you’re a pet owner gardening in Zone 7, choosing pet safe plants is essential to keep your furry friends out of harm’s way. The good news is that there are many beautiful plants that thrive in Zone 7’s climate and are not listed as toxic by the ASPCA, meaning they are safer options for homes with dogs, cats, or other pets. In this post, we’ll explore 10 of the best pet safe plants for Zone 7 gardens that can brighten your outdoor space without compromising your pet’s safety.
Understanding Pet Safe Plants in Zone 7
Zone 7, characterized by moderate winters with minimum temperatures between 0°F and 10°F (-18°C to -12°C), offers a wide range of planting options. When selecting plants, it’s important to refer to the ASPCA’s list for guidance on toxicity. Plants not listed as toxic are considered safer options, but it’s always wise to monitor your pets and discourage them from chewing on any plants. Remember, “not listed as toxic” does not guarantee complete safety—some plants can still cause mild irritation if ingested.
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are an excellent choice for container gardening or shaded garden beds. They are hardy enough to survive Zone 7 winters if protected or grown indoors during colder months. These plants are known for their arching green-and-white striped leaves and small white flowers. Spider plants are not listed as toxic by the ASPCA, making them a popular pet safe option.
2. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston ferns thrive in the humid, shaded areas of your Zone 7 garden. They are lush, with feathery fronds that add texture to your garden or indoor space. These ferns are not listed as toxic to dogs or cats and are a great way to bring greenery without worry.
3. African Violet (Saintpaulia ionantha)
For a pop of color indoors or in shaded outdoor spots, African violets are a charming option. They bloom in shades of purple, pink, or white and prefer indirect sunlight. African violets are not listed as toxic by the ASPCA, making them a safe flowering plant choice for homes with pets.
4. Calathea (Calathea spp.)
Calatheas are known for their striking leaf patterns and thrive in humid, low-light conditions, perfect for indoor environments in Zone 7. They are not listed as toxic to pets and can add a tropical flair to your home or shaded porch.
5. Blue Echeveria (Echeveria glauca)
Succulents are popular for their low water requirements, and Blue Echeveria is a pet safe succulent option for Zone 7 gardeners. Though they prefer warmer conditions, they can be grown indoors or in protected outdoor spots. Blue Echeveria is not listed as toxic by the ASPCA.
6. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii)
Christmas Cactus is a festive, pet safe plant that blooms in winter with bright pink or red flowers. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-drained soil. This cactus is not listed as toxic to pets and can be a lovely addition to your indoor garden during Zone 7 winters.
7. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
Known for its beautiful leaf patterns and “praying” leaf movements at night, the Prayer Plant is a non-toxic houseplant suitable for Zone 7 indoor gardening. It prefers indirect light and higher humidity.
8. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
Areca palms add a tropical vibe to indoor or sheltered outdoor spaces in Zone 7. They grow well in bright, indirect light and are not listed as toxic to pets, making them a safe, pet friendly palm choice.
9. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
True to its name, the Cast Iron Plant is tough and tolerant of low light and varying conditions. It is not listed as toxic to cats or dogs and can be an excellent shade-tolerant groundcover or container plant in Zone 7.
10. Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia)
Baby Rubber Plants are compact, easy-to-care-for houseplants with thick, glossy leaves. They are not listed as toxic by the ASPCA and thrive in moderate light and humidity, making them perfect for Zone 7 homes.
Tips for Growing Pet Safe Plants in Zone 7
- Know your microclimate: Even within Zone 7, conditions vary. Pay attention to sun exposure, soil type, and moisture to select the best plants for your specific garden.
- Use containers for sensitive plants: Some tropical or tender plants like Calathea or African Violet can be grown in pots and brought indoors during colder months.
- Avoid fertilizers and pesticides harmful to pets: When caring for your plants, opt for pet friendly fertilizers and avoid chemicals that can harm your pets.
- Train your pets: Even pet safe plants can cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities. Discourage your pets from chewing plants and provide plenty of pet-safe toys and treats.
Wildlife Resistance Disclaimer
While these plants are considered pet safe, their resistance to deer, rabbits, or groundhogs may vary. If you are dealing with wildlife browsing, consider additional protective measures.
Pet Safety Reminder
If you suspect your pet has ingested any plant and is showing signs of distress, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately at 888-426-4435.
Conclusion
Choosing pet safe plants for your Zone 7 garden doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty or variety. From lush ferns and palms to colorful flowering plants and hardy succulents, there are plenty of options to create a vibrant, pet friendly garden space. Use the PlantWise Plant Finder wizard to explore even more pet safe plants tailored to your growing zone and preferences. Visit /wizard to get started!
Happy gardening and stay safe with your pets!
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