The Bromeliaceae family is a diverse group of 75 genera and approximately 3,590 species.
The most famous members of the family include pineapple, air plants, and Spanish moss. Many bromeliad plants have become popular, easy to care for ornamental house plants.

Most bromeliads are tropical plants. They come from the United States, the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas to West Africa.
Bromeliad plant care tends to be very basic. Their floral and foliar displays make perfect additions indoors and outdoors.
Some species gather moisture from the air and store it between their leaves. This trait has earned them common names such as urn plant, while others are true succulents.
Depending on the species, you may need to provide bright light or shade, but never direct sunlight.
Some Bromeliad varieties growing as indoor plants need special potting soil. Others (such as air plants) will attach to a wooden post or pole.
Is The Bromeliad Poisonous or Toxic?
The ASPCA has declared bromeliads safe and nontoxic to cats and dogs.
There may be some rare exceptions in such a large plant family.
Horse owners will be glad to hear that bromeliad plants pose no toxic effects.
The plants are non-toxic to humans. Some species may be best kept out of the reach of children due to potential allergic reactions.
Pets actually love to snack on certain varieties, especially air plants. You may want to place indoor bromeliad houseplant out of reach to preserve the greenery.
What Parts Of The Plant Are Poisonous or Toxic?
The bromeliads you buy and grow at home are considered non-toxic.
However, the sap may cause an allergic reaction leading to minor dermatitis.
What Are The Symptoms Of Poisoning?
While generally safe plants, bromeliads can cause skin irritation in some individuals.
Dermatitis may manifest into a nasty rash with red, itchy bumps that can sometimes last a few weeks.
Additionally, letting pets snack on these plants may cause nausea or vomiting.
How To Protect Yourself While Handling The Bromeliad
Many bromeliads have sharp or spiky leaves. Plants can cause minor injuries if not handled with gloves.
NOTE: Mosquitoes tend to love bromeliad plants. The water stored in the cups of some bromeliads can become a mosquito breeding ground. Use natural pet-friendly repellents when growing outdoors.
Safe Companion Plants for Bromeliads
Bromeliads themselves tend to be safe. But Bromeliads are often paired up with other plants toxic to animals.
Avoid pairing your bromeliad with the following toxic plants:
Some great non-toxic plants to share space with your bromeliads are:
- African violet
- Areca Palm
- Boston fern
- Christmas cactus
- Haworthia
- Peperomia
- Pony tail palm
- Spider plant
Related: What kind of light does Tillandsia Xerographica need? It thrives in direct sunlight, either indoors or outdoors, ideally in south-facing windows.