Clearweed

Safe for cats

Great as a gift 🌸

Clearweed

Pilea pumila · Urticaceae

How it looks

Clearweed (Pilea) is a small herbaceous plant with translucent slender stems and small, toothed oval leaves that spread sideways. The stems look transparent, and the plant stands 8–20 in (20–50 cm) tall, growing in shaded, moist places.

This plant is listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA. An occasional nibble is unlikely to cause any real trouble.

Guide for parents

Even with a safe plant, make a habit of picking up fallen leaves the same day. If your cat likes to dig in or eat potting soil, fertilizer ingredients can upset their stomach — covering the soil with pebbles works well. If it comes home as a cut stem, florists often treat it with preservatives, so place the vase where your cat can't drink the water.