Safe Plants For Your Chameleon

When someone starts their journey into the world of Chameleons all roads usually lead to plants at one point or another. What plants are safe for your Chameleons' habitat? Well, we have tried to comprise a list of the top ones we have come across in our own search here at Crawly Critters.

FICUS

There are literally hundreds of different species of Ficus plants available. Although it is said that some species are thought to cause eye issues with your Chameleon, Ficus Benjamin is widely used in the Chameleon world. Ficus Benjamin can grow to approximately 6 feet tall, so it is a good plant for large Chameleon habitats. Ficus plants are a little more difficult to deal with in that they require some sunlight during the day, and they drop their leaves at the slightest environmental changes. Also, their leaves can burn if they get too close to your heat light. Multiplying your plants through propagation is also more difficult than it is with other "Reptile Safe Plants."



HIBISCUS

Hibiscus can be quite beautiful in a Chameleon habitat because of its gorgeous flowers. This plant grows vigorously and requires periodic pruning to keep it contained. Hibiscus also needs bright light and some sunlight during the day.




POTHOS

Pothos is a leafy vine type plant that can grow upwards of 40 feet. Generally it grows to around 6 to 10 feet when grown in a container. Pothos is one of the top live plants used for Chameleon habitats. Pothos is a very hardy plant and tolerates low light and heavy watering quite well. It is said to be one of the easiest house plants to grow. Pothos care is quite simple and involves cutting back the root ball or repotting once per year. This plant is also very easy to multiply by taking cuttings and rooting them in new pots.





SCHEFFLERA

Schefflera arboricola, also known as the "umbrella tree" is another great plant to use for Chameleon habitats. This plant is either loved or hated. It can be difficult to keep because it require lots of light and some sunlight during the day. Schefflera also doesn't do well when wet so be sure not to over water it. The good part is they are not overly difficult to multiply through rooted cuttings.




As you can see there are a variety of species of plants that your Chameleon will do well with. We hope this list has helped you find what you are looking for when it comes to making your Chameleon healthy and happy!!

FLCHAMS PLANT LIST

For a more extensive list of "Reptile Safe Plants" check out

the fine folks over at FLCHAMS.

Reptile Safe Fruits & Vegetables

One of the most challenging aspects of owning reptiles is providing them with a healthy and nutritious diet. Not only will your lizards require a staple diet of insects, being omnivores they also need fruits and veggies to reach their happiest and healthiest potential.

This article is designed to help you know what fruits and vegetables are safe to feed your lizard as well as the ones you should avoid.

Let's dive right in shall we?

DAILY USE VEGGIES

• Acorn Squash
• Butternut Squash
• Chard
• Collard Greens
• Endive
• Green Beans
• Mustard Greens
• Parsnips
• Watercress

OCCASIONAL USE VEGGIES

• Bok Choi
• Broccoli
• Cabbage
• Cantaloupe
• Carrot
• Cauliflower
• Celery
• Kale
• Romaine Lettuce
• Spaghetti Squash

  

  Collard Greens are an EXCELLENT item to use for "gut loading"

  your insects. Other items to use include a variety of fruit, high

  protein cat food, and even fish food.

• Summer Squash
• Sweet Potatoes
• Zucchini

VEGGIES TO AVOID

• Avocado
• Brussels Sprouts
• Chives
• Cucumber
• Eggplant
• Garlic
• Iceberg Lettuce
• Mushroom
• Onion
• Parsley
• Rhubarb
• Spinach
• Tomato

TOXIC VEGGIES

• Avocado
• Buttercup
• Daffodil
• Elderberry

SAFE FRUITS

• Apple
• Apricot
• Banana
• Blackberries
• Figs
• Grapes
• Kiwi
• Mango
• Papaya
• Peaches
• Pears
• Plum
• Raspberries
• Strawberries
• Watermelon

FRUITS TO AVOID

• Lemons
• Limes
• Oranges

The best practice to follow when trying to provide the most nutritious diet possible for any of your Crawly Critters is "VARIETY." You don't necessarily have to feed them every single item on the above lists, but you need to try and offer a variety of different fruits and veggies. The same goes for insects. Stay away from offering a single staple food item, and offer them a variety. You will be rewarded with healthy happy reptiles in return.