6 Succulents Safe for Kids
by Lynn KirkDec 8, 2021
What are the 6 succulents safe for kids? That’s not easy to decide since kiddos are some of the most inquisitive creatures on earth. Curiosity is great for learning, but not so great for safety. Most every toddler doesn’t hesitate to touch, tug, and taste anything and everything within reach. That’s why it’s critical to childproof your home: electrical outlets, hanging cords, sharp-edged tables, tools, chemicals . . . and yes, your plants!
Succulents are especially tempting to tots. After all, these plants’ crazy-cool colors and fascinating forms are simply irresistible! They beg for extra attention, which youngsters are happy to provide. Fortunately, most succulent ‘taste tests’ won’t matter since most are harmless — though not necessarily so for your lovely plant. It’s always wise to have the poison control phone number on hand, just in case. Better yet, be smart instead of sorry. Do your homework before buying that next new plant.
In the meantime, here are the 6 succulents safe for kids:
1. Aloe Vera. This soothing succulent is best known for its gel-like sap that doubles as a moisturizer and healer for burns. Fortunately, it is deemed safe for toddler-ville because unlike its cactus kin, the aloe vera doesn’t sport large, piercing spikes (thorns). Side Note: Conversely, aloe IS toxic to dogs and cats.
2. Burro's Tail. Whether you reference this perennial as a burro’s, lamb’s or donkey’s tail, it’s a good-looking plant whose trailing stems dangle down freely, sometimes as much as 4 to 6 feet when mature. Its leaves and stems are not toxic when eaten, which is good news. The bad news is that your child might be able to reach its ‘tails’ by standing on a chair or countertop. So make sure the plant’s hanging stems stay out of reach — this time for the wellbeing of your plant.
3. Christmas Cactus. A favorite around the winter holidays, Christmas Cactus presents its showy-red blooms with pride. Its ridged, yet soft stem segments are ideal for curious fingers to touch and learn about textures and shapes. Its non-toxicity and ease of care are an added bonus, especially for households with littles.
4. Hens and Chicks Plant. Most rosettes of hens and chicks are tiny and charming, just like the little ones mesmerized by them. Among their mats of growth, they also clearly have mama plants surrounded by their little ‘chicks’ — a relationship that youngsters love to explore. This family of plants is typically safe for both kids and cats because the rosettes don't contain toxins. Its stems don’t sport prickly spines either. However, it’s smart to always double check the specific plant’s child-safety info since you never know.
5. Jade. Likewise, this house plant’s chunky leaves and stems bear no spines (aka, thorns). That makes it a good one for children to touch and comprehend smooth textures, while its chubby leaves make for a solid science lesson about succulents’ water-retention abilities. Luckily, this so-called ‘lucky plant’ also is safe to have around. Just remember that mature jades can be top heavy, so they’re a bit more vulnerable to tykes (and pets!) on the move.
6. Zebra Haworthia, or zebra plant, is a small, slow-growing tropical that lives up to its name. Vibrant stripes across its leaves tend to attract inquisitive youngsters, as do its dark, glossy leaves and bright-as-sunshine flowers. But basically the zebra plant is harmless for any and all.
In summary, 6 succulents safe for kids might be the best options for a family or place frequented by little ones. For when it comes to most succulents, kids might be more harmful to plants than vice versa! However, the best strategies for both plant and child safety are to 1) keep all plants out of reach (unless there's adult supervision); 2) verify which are safe to have around; and 3) buy only those confirmed as harmless, starting with these 6 succulents safe for kids.
These educational tips are courtesy of Succulent Market, America’s #1 source for succulent plants, collections, cuttings, and gifts. Though we never recommend nibbling on any of our succulents, we do recommend browsing our website at www.SucculentMarket.com. You're likely to find even more succulents safe for kids!
____
References
Eliza Martinez, Eliza (Oct. 30, 2014). “Garden Guides.” https://www.gardenguides.com/how_2289175_choose-money-plant.html
Home Warranty Blog. https://homewarranty.firstam.com/blog/5-safe-succulents