Plants That Are Safe for Pet Birds

By
Alyson Kalhagen
Alyson Kalhagen
Alyson Kalhagen is an avian expert and writer with more than 10 years of combined professional experience as a veterinary technician and manager of a chain of successful pet stores. Her specialty is in avian behavior and socialization. Alyson owns several birds and has been featured in Bird Talk Magazine.
Learn more about The Spruce Pets' Editorial Process
Updated on 02/01/22
Reviewed by
Natasha Diehl
Natasha Diehl
Reviewed by Natasha Diehl
Dr. Diehl is a passionate veterinarian pursuing specialty medicine with over 6 years' experience with exotic pets. She now works with a team of other experienced vets to provide the best advice and care for their clients' pets.
Learn more about The Spruce Pets' Veterinary Review Board
The fresh air of your home
Maria Nikiforova / Getty Images

The houseplants we use to brighten our homes aren't always safe for those who have pet birds, as many plants are toxic to our feathered friends. Depending on the size of the bird and how much of the plant the bird ingests, a toxic plant can cause anything from mild illness, such as temporary digestive upset, to sudden death. Fortunately, there are several houseplants bird owners can enjoy without having to worry about their pets.

  • 01 of 09

    Spider Plant

    Spider plant on windowsill

    Image Source / Getty Images

    These exotic-looking plants are both easy to grow and safe for birds. A spider plant in a hanging basket can be an attractive decoration in any home.

  • 02 of 09

    Jade

    A jade plant on a windowsill

    Massimo Russo / EyeEm / Getty Images

    Jade plants (also known as money plants) are a succulent variety that is safe for birds and adds a unique touch to any room. Easy to care for, they are a popular choice as low-maintenance houseplants.

  • 03 of 09

    Boston Fern

    Boston fern near a window

    automidori / Getty Images

    These lush, hardy plants can offer a natural touch to your decor. As a bonus, there's no need to worry if your pet parrot finds them as beautiful as you do. Boston ferns are completely safe plants for birds.

  • 04 of 09

    Aloe Vera

    Close-up of aloe vera plant

    Nacivet / Getty Images

    Not only is aloe vera safe and nontoxic, but it also has medicinal qualities that can help both sick birds and people. Throw in the fact that it's a snap to take care of, and it's easy to see why aloe has been a popular houseplant for many years.

    Continue to 5 of 9 below.
  • 05 of 09

    Bamboo

    Bamboo Plants
    Cristina Pedrazzini / Getty Images

    Bamboo is a striking plant that is also quite hardy and safe for birds. Bamboo can be incorporated into many beautiful arrangements to give any space an attractive touch of nature.

  • 06 of 09

    African Violet

    African violet plant with blooming purple flowers

    gladassfanny / Getty Images

    Feel free to keep these small but beautiful flowers anywhere inside your home. They are completely safe plants for parrots and other pet birds. African violets are known to flower several times a year, so add one of these little jewels to your collection for an enduring splash of color.

  • 07 of 09

    Hen and Chicks

    Overview of several pots of succulent plants

    Yukari Yamashita / EyeEm / Getty Images

    The appropriately named hen and chicks is a bird-safe plant that thrives in direct sunlight. If you'd like to enjoy one of these unique little succulents, make sure you have a sunny window for it.

  • 08 of 09

    Orchid

    Purple and white orchids

    Ivan / Getty Images

    Known for their beautiful blossoms, orchids have enjoyed great popularity as houseplants for some time. They are a good choice for bird owners who are experienced in keeping plants. These flowers may be safe for birds, but they are notoriously hard to grow.

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  • 09 of 09

    Rose

    royal sunset roses

    Ryan Somma / Flickr / CC By 2.0

    While roses aren't normally grown indoors, they are popular in indoor cut-flower arrangements. The good news for bird owners is roses are safe for birds as long as they haven't been treated with chemical sprays. If you love having freshly cut flowers in your home, try growing some of your own roses to make arrangements. This way you can be sure the flowers are free of pesticides and other chemical residues.

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