Question
Ms. Kittle,

I have two queen palm(Syagrus romanzoffianum)plants that I bought to decorate around the pool this summer.  I live in Kentucky, so with the cold weather coming I would like to keep them for next year.  

I would like to bring them in the house, but have a dog and cat.  I don't think the dog would bother them, but the cat is a different question.  I saw the list you gave a gentleman of cat-safe house plants, but didn't see the queen palm on the list.  

Would a queen palm be safe to bring indoors with a cat?

Much Thanks,

Chris

Answer
Chris,

According to the ASPCA: "There is currently no data indicating that Queen Palm (Cocos plumose or Syagrus romanzoffiana) has toxic potential to pets. However, it抯 important to keep in mind that even plants considered to be non-toxic can produce minor stomach upset if ingested. Therefore, it抯 still a good idea to discourage your pets from nibbling on them." I hope that helps!

I am more concerned that your palms will not survive the winter indoors because they will not get enough sun. They like full sun outside on the beach and high humidity. Low indoor humidity and low indoor light is not to their liking. If it is possible for you to hang a 2 bulb flourescent light fixture above them and have it on for 14 hours a day on a timer that will keep your palms a lot happier. Good luck.

Darlene