The frankincense plant (botanical Plectranthus) - not to be confused with the frankincense tree (Boswellia) - is one of the non-poisonous ornamental plants. However, since the smell indicates a high concentration of essential oils, frankincense plants are not suitable for consumption.
Is the frankincense plant poisonous?
The frankincense plant (Plectranthus) is not poisonous to humans and animals. However, due to its high essential oil content, it should not be consumed as this can potentially cause nausea.
The frankincense plant is not poisonous
The frankincense plant contains no toxins, so it is classified as non-toxic to humans or animals. However, you should avoid consuming the shoots as the plant contains a lot of essential oils that can potentially cause nausea.
You can safely grow incense plants on the balcony or even as a houseplant if you don't mind the strong smell. It cannot be ruled out that cats in particular do not like the smell. Therefore, only grow incense plants if all human and animal inhabitants can handle them.
Frankincense plants are not hardy
Frankincense plants are usually only kept as annuals because they are not hardy. They need to be kept indoors over the winter. Finding a good place for it is not easy. It must be bright and cool, but frost-free.
Unfortunately, the frankincense plant also gives off its typical smell during the winter. If you or your pets are very sensitive to smells, you should avoid incense plants altogether. As an alternative, only grow them as an annual to avoid unpleasant odors in the house during the winter.
Tip
Some varieties of the frankincense plant give off such a strong smell of incense that they are planted on property lines as so-called “piss off plants”. They should keep animals away from the garden. While some gardeners swear by this measure, others are convinced of its uselessness.