5 Pet Friendly Flowers

Everyone with a pet knows just how curious our furry friends can be, especially when it comes to their tummies! Flowers may look harmless but some can be highly toxic to animals if ingested. Whilst we would always recommend keeping any flowers out of your pets reach, we’ve put together this list of ‘pet friendly’ blooms that you can enjoy without the worry!

1. Phalaenopsis Orchids

Flower meaning = love, beauty and refinement

This exotic bloom, originating from tropical Asia, is extremely popular as a pot plant but also make beautiful cut flowers too, adding instant sophistication to any design – and the best part, they won’t harm your pet! Many phalaenopsis orchids have distinctive markings with contrasting coloured throats. Did you know, there are over 50 species with the first genus established in 1825 by Dutch botanist C L Blume?

2. Lisianthus

Flower meaning = appreciation, charisma and gratitude

These delicate blooms have some striking similarities with the classic rose, but come with a very different meaning. They symbolise thankfulness, so are great for sending to someone when you want to show your appreciation, or to say thank you to someone special. Lisianthus come in an array of beautiful colours, but most popular are purple, pink, white and yellow. These blooms even have their own nickname, they're affectionately known in the flower world as 'Lizzies'.

3. Antirrhinum (Snapdragons)

Flower meaning = gracious lady

This cottage garden favourite is non-toxic and a safe option for displaying in your home. Adding height to any design, antirrhinums look fabulous when arranged with round-headed summer blooms, such as scabious and roses (both of which are also non-toxic). Fun fact – snapdragons provide nectar for bumble bees who are one of the few insects that can ‘open’ the flower.

4. Sunflowers

Flower meaning = admiration and loyalty

This universally loved and instantly recognised flower is a safe choice when picking out blooms for your summer floral display, as they pose no harm to cats or dogs. As sunflowers follow the sun, they are said to symbolise seeking out positivity and strength – they were also worshiped by the Incas of Peru due to their resemblance of the life giving sun.

5. Roses

Flower meaning = love, desire and romance

Bursting with beauty and meaning, the rose is the world's favourite flower and it’s easy to understand the universal appeal. So, you’ll be pleased to know that all varieties are pet-friendly! With their eye-catching colour and perfectly formed petals, roses make the perfect arrangement for your home. When styling your vase of flowers, bear in mind that they are a focal flower which means they’re designed to stand out from the rest and will enhance the overall shape of your arrangement.

Some flowers, such as lilies, are notorious for being highly toxic to cats, however there are some blooms that aren’t quite as well-known for being a danger to our four legged friends. Here’s a list of common flowers and foliages pet owners should avoid:

• Lilies
• Chrysanthemums
• Delphinium
• Amaryllis
• Tulips
• Craspedia
• Ammi
• Rhododendron
• Delphinium
• Astrantia
• Peonies
• Clematis
• Tanacetum
• Azalea
• Calla Lilies
• Ranunculus
• Sweet William
• Eucalyptus
• Asparagus Fern
• Ruscus