Question
I have recently started a small succulent garden, and I was wondering how safe it is to try eating leaves and such from typical succulents and cacti. I ask because I have heard that it can be very healthy to eat aloe vera and parts of the prickly pear cactus. Anything you can tell me about which plants are safe or toxic or how I can tell the difference would be much appreciated, I am particularly interested in jade and different kinds of aloes.  

Answer
Kate,

The aloe you buy that is ingestible is diluted. You can use the leaves for skin treatment but I would not personally eat the leaves. In high concentrations they could cause nausea. Jade plants are not poisonous. They are a delicacy to elephants.

http://members.tripod.com/~Cicero/tsplants.htm
Lists plant poisonous to cats.

The following is a list of plants that the site below says is not poisonous. I do not guarantee the accuracy.

I would suggest that you go to the library and get some books on the subject.

http://uuhsc.utah.edu/pated/handouts/handout.cfm?id=2167

Abelia
Dogwood
Lipstick Plant

African Daisy
Donkey's Tail
Magnolia

African Violet
Dracaena
Marigold *

Airplane-Propeller Plant
Easter Lily
Moneywort

Aluminum Plant
Echeveria
Monkey Plant

Aspidistra (Cast Iron Plant)
Eugenia
Peperomia

Aster
Ferns
Petunia

Baby's Tears
Forsythia
Poinsettia*

Bachelor Buttons
Geranium
Prayer Plant

Bamboo
Hens & Chicks
Purple Passion

Camelia
Honeysuckle
Sensitive Plant

Christmas Cactus
Honey Plant
Spider Plant

Coleus
Hoya
Spring Crocus

Corn Plant
Impatiens
Swedish Ivy

Creeping Charlie
Jade Plant
Violets

Creeping Jenny
Kalanchoe
Wax Plant

Dahlia
Lilac
Wandering Jew*

Dandelion
Lily (Day, Easter or Tiger)
Zebra Plant


* Sap may be irritating.

Many flowers from both annuals and periennials are edible in salads. You really need to study info from several sources. Good luck.

Darlene