Safe Plants For Chameleons to Eat, Climb, and Hide in

Thinking of getting new plants for your chameleon’s enclosure?

Chameleons use plants for climbing, hiding, and sometimes chewing… which is why it’s important to pick safe, non-toxic plants chameleons could ingest if they wanted to.

In a few minutes you’ll learn why plants are important to a chameleon, and I’ll give you a list of…

  • Plants suitable for climbing and hiding
  • Plants with trailing vines for chameleons to explore
  • Plants for humidity regulation
  • Plants that are safe for chameleons to eat

Now let’s step back into the wild. In the wild, plants provide shelter, camouflage, and sometimes food. Plants help build an environment where chameleons can thrive and exhibit natural behaviors.

We want to replicate this environment in our chameleon enclosure (terranium) so that our chameleon stays healthy and happy.

6 Ways Plants Benefit a Chameleon’s Natural Environment 

  1. Camouflage and Protection: Chameleons change colors to match their surroundings. Dense foliage lets them showcase this skill and hide from predators. While an enclosure has no predators, a chameleon who feels safe from a perceived threat is a relaxed, happier chameleon.
  2. Climbing and Exploration: Chameleons are arboreal creatures, which means they spend a significant amount of time in trees and shrubs. Plants in their habitat allow them to climb, explore, and stay active, closely mimicking their natural environment.
  3. Rest and Shelter: Plants provide natural resting spots and shelter. Chameleons can often be found lounging on leaves or nestled in branches, especially after a meal.
  4. Humidity Regulation: Live plants in an enclosure help maintain the required humidity levels. Chameleons thrive in specific humidity ranges, and plants can help regulate that by releasing moisture.
  5. Dietary Needs: While chameleons are primarily insectivorous, some might nibble on plant matter or seek out the moisture from leaves. That’s why we must ensure these plants are non-toxic.
  6. Stress Reduction: A well-planted environment can help reduce stress for a chameleon. Having multiple hiding spots and a semblance of their natural habitat can make them feel more secure and relaxed

Which Plants Should You Get?

Selecting the right plants that mimic your chameleon’s natural environment will not only enhance your enclosure’s aesthetics, but also contribute to your chameleon’s well-being and happiness.

Here are various plants that give chameleons any of the 6 benefits listed above…

Best Plants for Chameleons to Climb on and Hide in:

  • Ficus Benjamina (Weeping Fig): Has a woody stem and branch structure that can support the weight of a chameleon so it’s robust and suitable for climbing. Furthermore, its dense, leafy foliage offers numerous hiding spots for chameleons.
    Ficus Benjamina plants for sale on Amazon
  • Schefflera Arboricola (Umbrella Plant): Known for its umbrella-like leaf structure, provides cover hiding spots. Umbrella plants for sale on Amazon
  • Dracaena Marginata (Dragon Tree): Unique appearance and suitable for climbing. Dragon Trees for sale on Amazon

Plants With Trailing Vines for Chameleon Exploration:

Be aware of Pothos harmful cousin

Big-Leafed Plants for Humidity Regulation:

Safe Plants for Chameleons to Eat:

Is the Wandering Jew Plant Safe For Chameleons to Eat?

The Wandering Jew plant (Tradescantia zebrina) is indeed a subject of debate among reptile enthusiasts. Some sources list it as non-toxic to reptiles, including chameleons, while others advise against its use.

If you choose to use the Wandering Jew plant in your chameleon’s enclosure, monitor your pet closely for any signs of irritation or discomfort, and be prepared to remove the plant if any issues arise.

Are Bromeliads Safe For Chameleons?

Bromeliads are generally considered safe for chameleons and are often used in chameleon enclosures. These plants are not only non-toxic but also provide excellent climbing and hiding opportunities for arboreal animals like chameleons.

Bromeliads can also collect water in their rosette of leaves, providing natural drinking spots for chameleons.

The way bromeliads hold water in their leaves can mimic the chameleon’s natural environment, giving them access to water in a way that feels natural.

Note: Make sure that the specific variety of bromeliad you choose doesn’t have sharp or spiky edges that might harm your chameleon.

Making Your Plants Safe For Chameleons

Chameleons primarily consume insects, and plant matter is not typically a significant part of their diet. However, some may nibble on leaves and flowers, either out of curiosity or for hydration.

Therefore, you want to ensure your plants are free of pesticides, fertilizers, or chemicals that could harm the chameleon.

How do you make sure of this? When you look online… lots of sites list plants that are “safe” or good for your chameleon, but they don’t tell you where to get them, and how do you even know they are pesticide free?

Throughout this page, I link you to plants sold on Amazon, but you still aren’t 100% sure that they’re pesticide and chemical free.

Therefore…

  1. Wash your plants before introducing them to your chameleon
  2. Buy the organic ones since they are less likely to use dangerous pesticides
  3. If your plants come in a pot, the soil will have nutrients the chameleon might like, so cover the soil if you suspect it’s treated with fertilizer.
  4. Finally, if you’re unsure about the source of the plants I listed above, it might be best to purchase from a reputable reptile store that understands the needs of reptiles

Steps to Eliminate Pesticide Residue

  1. Fill a large tub with water and add a squirt of antibacterial soap to create a soapy solution. Stir the mixture until it is well combined.
  2. Carefully invert your plant and submerge it in the soapy water, gently swishing it around to coat all surfaces.
  3. Allow the plant to soak in the solution for 5 minutes.
  4. Thoroughly rinse the plant with clean water to ensure all soap traces are removed.
  5. Repeat steps 1 through 4 at least three times to ensure all pesticide traces are eliminated.

Steps to Remove Traces of Fertilizer

  1. Be aware that nursery potting soils may contain additives and chemical fertilizer balls.
  2. To eliminate these, repot the plant using organic potting soil free of chemical fertilizers and additives. “Organic” potting soil may be suitable; in this case, I used “Supersoil” potting soil without conditioners.
  3. To prevent accidental ingestion of fertilizers by your chameleon, it is essential to replace all of the original soil with the new, organic soil, ensuring a complete and thorough repotting.

Growing the Plants Yourself

Another option is to grow the plants yourself without treating them with toxic chemicals.

Here are some Hibiscus seeds for sale on Amazon

Recap

  • By selecting plants that mirror your chameleon’s natural habitat, you contribute to their overall well-being, and create a visually pleasing environment for both you and your pet.
  • Different plants give your chameleon different benefits.
  • You want to ensure the safety of your plants in case your chameleon wants to eat them
  • You can do this by washing the plants and covering the soil before introducing them to your chameleon
  • Another option is to grow the plants yourself without treating them with chemicals toxic to chameleons
  • As you read through all this, remember that plants should not replace a chameleon’s primary diet of insects and other appropriate food items. They should be offered as an occasional treat or supplement to their regular diet.