Can Russian Tortoises eat Philodendron?
Philodendron hederaceum
Safety verdict
Toxic
Why
[confidence: high] [source: The Tortoise Table plant database (tortoisetable.org.uk), ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants list, and exotic reptile veterinary toxicology references such as Mader's Reptile and Amphibian Medicine and Surgery.] Philodendrons contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause intense oral irritation, swelling, and gastrointestinal distress in Russian Tortoises. Ingestion can lead to drooling, difficulty swallowing, and in significant quantities, systemic oxalate toxicity affecting kidney function.
How much / how often
Should not be offered at any quantity — avoid entirely.
Preparation
No preparation method neutralizes the insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; this plant should be kept out of the tortoise's enclosure and foraging area entirely.
Reviewed by admin on May 2026