The money tree is very popular as a houseplant - this begs the question of whether it is poisonous for humans or pets. Here's the answer.
The money tree (Crassula ovata) is considered to be easy to care for and robust and is therefore extremely popular as a houseplant. However, the question always arises whether we shouldn't be more careful in front 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 is a danger 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, which are valued by us as house plants, are poisonous, put Many gardeners were rightly concerned with the question of whether the money tree is also poisonous could. So does the penny tree pose a risk to small children, adults, dogs, cats and the like? We will clarify and tell you whether these concerns are justified.
Is the money tree poisonous to humans?
For everyone who appreciates the money tree, the all-clear comes here: It does not contain any toxic ingredients and can therefore be classified as non-toxic. Succulents have the ability to store a lot of water in their leaves. If you cut these leaves, sap will leak out, which does not cause skin irritation on contact with the skin. The plant parts of the money tree are also not poisonous if swallowed.
In his homeland in South Africa, the roots and leaves of the money tree are even used as medicinal and enjoyable plants. So some tribes cook the roots of the Crassula ovata to be eaten as a vegetable. The leaves are also boiled there in milk and used as a remedy for stomach and intestinal problems. If you want to taste the taste of the money tree root, however, caution is advised. Only try this out at home if you can be sure that the plant has not come into contact with toxic fertilizers or pesticides. Otherwise these toxic substances could lead to poisoning.
Attention: It is true Crassula ovata non-toxic, other thick leaf plants (Crassulaceae) on the other hand not at all. So make absolutely sure that your money tree is really the species Crassula ovata and not another, possibly poisonous species.
Is the money tree poisonous for cats, dogs and the like?
The money tree is also harmless for animals such as dogs, cats or smaller rodents. So you can set up the houseplant in your home without hesitation and don't have to worry if your four-legged friends nibble on the plant out of curiosity.
The money tree is therefore harmless and neither dangerous for you, nor for children or animals. You can easily set it up in the apartment, in the office or in the garden in summer. In case you are looking for more child and animal safe plants for the garden you can read more on this topic here.
