Ignite FB Tracking PixelUmbrella Plant & Other Indoor Trees Pet Owners Should Avoid - Evelyn Forston
Keller Williams Realty River Cities
Evelyn Forston, Keller Williams Realty River CitiesPhone: (205) 901-6756
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Umbrella Plant & Other Indoor Trees Pet Owners Should Avoid

by Evelyn Forston 11/06/2023

Unfortunately, many popular houseplants are toxic to pets. Many of the small tree varieties commonly grown as houseplants, like the umbrella plant, can make both humans and animals sick if ingested. Here is a basic guide to popular indoor trees pet owners should avoid:

Umbrella Plant

Umbrella plants are named for their whorl-pattern leaves creating a dense canopy of vibrant foliage. These trees are popular for being fast-growers and growing as tall as six feet high indoors. They require evenly moist soil and bright indirect light to thrive, making them easy-care options for a variety of home environments. Unfortunately, umbrella plants are very toxic both to humans and animals.

Fiddle Leaf Fig

The fiddle leaf fig is a variety of Ficus extremely popular for their large, paddle-shaped leaves. These trees can grow so large indoors that many plant owners struggle with running out of vertical space. Fiddle leaf figs need medium to bright light and even moisture, and are somewhat notorious for being picky about changes in their environment. While the large leaves might not be as tempting to pets as some other indoor trees, they are toxic and should be avoided in homes with animals.

Rubber Tree

Rubber trees are another plant in the Ficus family. This plant produces thick, oval-shaped leaves with a glossy finish. They get their name from the white, sticky sap they produce when cut or wounded. The sap is particularly problematic for pet owners, since even just a prick of a leaf could cause it to weep the toxic substance. Rubber trees can grow very large but are easily contained to smaller sizes with regular pruning. Growing a smaller version of this plant on a high shelf is a great alternative to having it where curious pets might try to take a bite.

About the Author
Author

Evelyn Forston

Hi! We are David and Evelyn - The Hickox Team!

With a shared passion for helping people find where you truly belong—whether it’s a dream home or a strategic commercial space—we’ve combined our experience, heart, and hustle to better serve you, as our client across the Chattahoochee Valley. 

David brings sharp negotiation skills and market insight, and I bring creative strategy, relationship-driven service, and a love for both Residential and Commercial real estate. Together, we bring a perfect blend of strategy, service, and savvy, to elevate every step of your Real Estate journey.

We believe that real estate is not just about property—it’s about people, purpose, and possibility.

If you’re buying, selling, investing, or just want advice—we’re here for you.

-TheHickoxTeam 

Every Home Begins with 'H"

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Meet David

"When I think of dedication and drive in Real Estate, I think of David Hickox. Not only is David my professional partner, he’s also my fiancé — which means I get a front-row seat to the determination and care he puts into every property detail and client interaction."

-Evelyn Forston

I’m David Hickox—a dedicated real estate advisor serving the Chattahoochee Valley with a focus on results, relationships, and real value. My approach is grounded in strategy, honesty, and a deep respect for the goals and dreams of every client I work with.

I bring sharp market insight, strong negotiation skills, and a calm, solutions-focused mindset to every transaction. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling an investment property, or expanding your portfolio, I’m here to make the process smooth, strategic, and successful.

As co-lead of The Hickox Team with my fiancé Evelyn—an incredible Realtor and partner in every sense—we combine our strengths to deliver a real estate experience that’s both heart-led and results-driven. Together, we bring creativity, clarity, and commitment to the table every step of the way.

Outside of real estate, I enjoy staying active, watching the Braves and SEC football, working out, spending time with family and my sweet fiancé, Evelyn. 

Let’s connect—I’d be honored to help you take the next step with confidence.

Call me at 912-596-4261

Meet Evelyn

Hi, I’m Evelyn Forston —a people-oriented, house-obsessed, dog-loving soul!💛🏡🐾

I'm a Realtor, Advisor and Associate Broker serving both Residential and Commercial Real Estate clients across Georgia and Alabama. I believe Real Estate is more than closings and contracts—it’s about connection, service, and walking with people through some of life’s biggest milestones.

I don't just sell properties—I shepherd people through meaningful life transitions with my professional partner, who is also my fiancé- David Hickox.

Whether I’m helping a family buy their first home, assisting an investor with a new commercial venture, or supporting someone in a major life transition, I treat every client with care, strategy, and heart. My experience spans residential and commercial sales, multi-family, single-family, and property management—which means I can offer smart advice, creative solutions, and real results.

I grew up in the Chattahoochee Valley and proudly graduated from both Brookstone School and Columbus State University. I love this community deeply and it shows in how I live and serve. I’m a 2022 East Alabama Leadership graduate, a 2025 “star” for the Alzheimer’s Association Dancing Stars of Columbus, a member of the East Alabama Board of Realtors, and I serve as the 2025 Entertainment Committee Chair for the Columbus Board of Realtors.

I live, work, and thrive in the Columbus, GA / Phenix City, AL area with my fiancé and real estate partner, David Hickox and my two pups, Cupcake and Aubs. We love helping people turn dreams into keys and investments into income.

Call me at 205-901-6756

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