The money tree is very popular as a houseplant - this raises the question of whether it is poisonous to humans or pets. Find out the answer here.
The money tree (Crassula ovata) is easy to care for and robust and is therefore very popular as a houseplant. However, the question keeps coming up as to whether we shouldn't take better care of the penny tree, as it is also called. In our article, we investigate the myth of the poisonous money tree and tell you whether it poses a threat to humans or animals.
Is the money tree poisonous?
The money tree is a symbol of luck and prosperity and is therefore a welcome guest on the windowsill or desk in the office. It is also often passed on as a symbolic gift. However, the exotic plant does not come from our latitudes, but from South Africa. Since many tropical plants that we value as houseplants are poisonous, many concerned gardeners are right to wonder whether the money tree could also be poisonous. So does the penny tree pose a risk to small children, adults, dogs, cats and the like? We clarify and tell you whether these concerns are justified.
Is the money tree poisonous to humans?
For everyone who appreciates the money tree, here's the all-clear: It does not contain any toxic ingredients and can therefore be classified as non-toxic. Succulents have the ability to store large amounts of water in their leaves. If you cut these leaves, the plant sap escapes, but it does not cause skin irritation when it comes into contact with the skin. The plant parts of the money tree are also not poisonous if swallowed.
In its native South Africa, the roots and leaves of the money tree are even used as a medicinal and culinary plant. Some tribes boil the roots of the Crassula ovata to eat them as a vegetable. The leaves are boiled in milk there and used as a remedy for stomach and intestinal problems. If you too once taste theIf you want to taste money tree root, you have to be careful. Only try this at home if you are sure that the plant has not been exposed to toxic fertilizers or pesticides. Otherwise, these toxic substances could lead to poisoning.
Warning: Although Crassula ovata is non-poisonous, other succulent plants (Crassulaceae) are not at all. It is therefore essential to ensure that your money tree is really the species Crassula ovata and not another potentially poisonous species.
Is the money tree poisonous for cats, dogs and Co.?
The money tree is also harmless to animals such as dogs, cats or small rodents. So you can place the houseplant in your apartment without hesitation and don't have to worry if your four-legged friends nibble on the plant out of curiosity.
The money tree is harmless and not dangerous for you, children or animals. You can easily set it up in the home, in the office or in the garden in summer. If you are interested in other child and pet safe plants for the garden, you can read more about this topic here.
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