Unique Non-Toxic House Plants Safe for Kids, Cats, and Dogs

4. Splash some color into the room with African violets

African violets are a gorgeous flower and that thrives in an indoor environment because it is sensitive to temperature changes. It can also be finicky about what type of soil and how much water it receives. You will want to buy soil made for African violets. There are a number of special mixes you can buy, or you can make your own from equal parts peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite.

When you water your African violets, it is important to be sure you don't water the foliage directly. This can cause damage and spots on the flowers. The violets also prefer lukewarm water that has been standing for 48 hours. Water the plant when the soil feels less moist to the touch. Light needs to be bright to medium intensity and you should turn the pot on a regular basis to keep the flowers from reaching for the sun.