The Kentia palm is also suitable as a houseplant for families with children and pets. It is not poisonous, so it poses no danger. However, there is a risk of confusion with other palm species that are poisonous. Therefore, make sure you are really keeping a Kentia palm.
Is the Kentia palm poisonous?
Kentia palms are suitable for families with children and pets as they are not poisonous. However, caution is advised as they have sharp fronds and can be confused with poisonous palm species. If in doubt, the palm tree should be removed.
Kentia palms are not poisonous
Kentia palms do not contain any toxins, so there is no risk of poisoning for people or animals.
However, you should place the palm tree out of the reach of small children and cats. The tips of the fronds can be very sharp, making it easy for children to injure themselves. It is therefore better to place the Kentia palm in a location where neither small children nor pets come into contact with it.
You should always clear up any cuttings or fallen leaves straight away, even if they are not poisonous. If the remains of the palm tree are put into the mouth, a small child can choke on them. The leaves are inedible and can cause stomach problems in children and animals. The pot can also tip over when the fronds are pulled by cats, for example, and thus pose a risk of injury.
Danger of confusion with poisonous palm species
Unfortunately, there is some similarity between Kentia palms and other palm species, but they are poisonous. You should therefore be absolutely sure and know exactly whether you are really growing a Kentia palm or a poisonous mountain palm in your house.
If you are not entirely sure whether your palm tree is a poisonous or non-poisonous species, it is better to avoid caring for it indoors altogether.
Tip
Basically, you don't have to cut a Kentia palm. Only brown, yellow and dry fronds are cut. You can also remove brown leaf tips.
