Open dataset · CC-BY 4.0
Houseplant & Garden Plant Toxicity — ASPCA-sourced reference
Key findings
- Of 611 common houseplants and garden plants, 350 (57%) are toxic or mildly toxic to cats and dogs per the ASPCA.
- Only 261 (43%) are pet-safe — no toxic principle is listed by the ASPCA for cats or dogs.
- 255 species are outright toxic and 95 are mildly toxic (typically oral or gastrointestinal irritation).
Free to quote with attribution to Growli (getgrowli.app) under CC-BY 4.0.
| Common name | Botanical name | Category | Toxicity rating | ASPCA-sourced detail |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Armenian cucumber | Cucumis melo var. flexuosus | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Cucumis fruits in this group are recognised by the ASPCA as non-toxic to cats and dogs (the ASPCA lists Cucumber, Cucumis sativus, as non-toxic; Armenian cucumber is the closely related Cucumis melo var. flexuosus). The mild flesh is safe in small amounts; discard any rare bitter, cucurbitacin-heavy fruit, and remember large quantities of any vegetable can cause mild stomach upset. |
| Black Krim Crimean tomato | Solanum lycopersicum 'Black Krim' | edible | Toxic | As a Solanum lycopersicum cultivar, the tomato plant is ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Solanine and tomatine in the foliage, stems, and unripe green fruit are the toxic principles; the ripe dark fruit is non-toxic. Ingesting green parts can cause hypersalivation, inappetence, GI upset, weakness, dilated pupils, and slow heart rate. |
| Borlotti bean | Phaseolus vulgaris 'Borlotto Lingua di Fuoco' | edible | Mildly toxic | Not individually listed by the ASPCA, so genus status is uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Like all Phaseolus vulgaris beans, the raw, dried seeds contain high levels of lectins (phytohaemagglutinin) and must be cooked thoroughly before eating; raw or undercooked beans cause vomiting and gastrointestinal distress in pets and people. Keep dried beans out of reach of pets. |
| Brandywine heirloom tomato | Solanum lycopersicum 'Brandywine' | edible | Toxic | Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. The leaves, stems, and unripe green fruit contain solanine and related glycoalkaloids; ingestion can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, drowsiness, weakness, and dilated pupils. The ripe fruit is the safe, edible portion for humans. |
| Rainbow chard | Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla 'Bright Lights' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs (chard is a cultivar of Beta vulgaris, listed under 'Beets'). The leaves and stalks are high in oxalic acid, so feed only in small, occasional amounts to pets, particularly those prone to bladder stones or kidney problems. |
| California Wonder sweet pepper | Capsicum annuum 'California Wonder' | edible | Toxic | Capsicum annuum is a Solanaceae nightshade; the ASPCA lists ornamental pepper (Capsicum annuum) as toxic to cats and dogs, with solanine as the toxic principle. The foliage and stems are the hazard, and ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and depression. The ripe sweet fruit itself is edible to people but the plant should be kept away from pets. |
| Carolina Reaper super-hot chilli | Capsicum chinense 'Carolina Reaper' | edible | Mildly toxic | Capsicum chinense is not individually listed by the ASPCA (its 'Ornamental Pepper' toxic entry is Solanum pseudocapsicum, the unrelated Jerusalem cherry). The extreme capsaicin load makes this one of the most irritating peppers — severe mouth and GI pain, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea are likely if a pet bites a pod. Keep well out of reach of cats and dogs and seek veterinary advice after ingestion. |
| Castelfranco radicchio | Cichorium intybus var. foliosum 'Castelfranco' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is not listed on the ASPCA toxic plant list and has a long, safe history in human and animal diets; chicory root is a routine, generally-recognised-as-safe prebiotic ingredient in commercial pet foods. No poisoning risk is reported, though large amounts of the inulin-rich root can cause loose stools or gas in sensitive dogs. |
| Lacinato kale | Brassica oleracea var. palmifolia 'Nero di Toscana' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Kale (a Brassica oleracea cultivar) is not on the ASPCA toxic-plant list; the ASPCA classes it among the cruciferous vegetables safe for dogs and cats in small amounts. Note that raw kale acts as an oxidant and large quantities can contribute to gas, GI upset, goitrogenic effects or Heinz-body anaemia, so feed only sparingly and cooked. |
| Cherokee Purple heirloom tomato | Solanum lycopersicum 'Cherokee Purple' | edible | Toxic | Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. The green leaves, stems, and unripe fruit contain solanine and related glycoalkaloids; ingestion can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, drowsiness, weakness, and dilated pupils. The ripe red/purple fruit is the safe, edible part for people. |
| Trail of Tears bean | Phaseolus vulgaris 'Cherokee Trail of Tears' | edible | Mildly toxic | Not individually listed by the ASPCA, so genus status is uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet. As a Phaseolus vulgaris cultivar, its raw dried black seeds contain lectins (phytohaemagglutinin) and must be cooked before eating; raw beans cause vomiting and digestive upset in pets and humans. Keep dried seed away from pets. |
| Candy stripe beet | Beta vulgaris 'Chioggia' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs (entry: 'Beets', Beta vulgaris). Note that mature beet greens are high in oxalic acid, so they should be fed only sparingly to pets prone to urinary crystals or kidney issues. |
| Cape gooseberry | Physalis pruinosa 'Cossack Pineapple' | edible | Mildly toxic | Ground cherry (Physalis pruinosa) is a Solanaceae nightshade and is not individually listed by the ASPCA. The ripe golden fruit is edible, but the leaves, stems, and unripe green fruit contain solanine-type glycoalkaloids common to the genus. Treat the plant as a caution around pets and verify with a vet if green parts are ingested; signs can include vomiting and diarrhoea. |
| Costoluto Genovese ribbed tomato | Solanum lycopersicum 'Costoluto Genovese' | edible | Toxic | The tomato plant (Solanum lycopersicum) is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Toxic principles are solanine and tomatine, concentrated in the leaves, stems, and unripe green fruit; ripe red fruit is non-toxic. Signs include hypersalivation, inappetence, severe GI upset, weakness, dilated pupils, and slow heart rate. |
| Yellow crookneck squash | Cucurbita pepo 'Yellow Crookneck' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Cucurbita summer squashes are ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs (the ASPCA lists Zucchini, Acorn and Hubbard squash as non-toxic), and Crookneck is a Cucurbita pepo like zucchini. Eating large amounts of foliage may cause mild GI upset, and any rare, intensely bitter fruit (high in cucurbitacins) should be discarded rather than fed to pets or people. |
| Fairy Tale eggplant | Solanum melongena 'Fairy Tale' | edible | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Solanum species as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. Leaves, stems, flowers and unripe fruit contain the glycoalkaloid solanine; ingestion can cause hypersalivation, vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy and, in larger amounts, cardiac and neurological effects. The ripe cooked fruit is edible for people, but keep pets from grazing the plant. |
| French Breakfast radish | Raphanus sativus 'French Breakfast' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Cultivated radish (Raphanus sativus) is non-toxic to cats and dogs and is not listed as toxic by the ASPCA. The ASPCA's 'Wild Radish' listing refers to a different species (Raphanus raphanistrum) toxic only to horses. The peppery root and leaves may cause mild gas or stomach upset, so feed pets sparingly. |
| Glass Gem rainbow corn | Zea mays 'Glass Gem' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | True maize (Zea mays) is not on the ASPCA toxic plant list and is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs; the main risk is choking or gut obstruction from whole cobs, not poisoning. It is unrelated to the ASPCA-toxic 'Corn Plant' (Dracaena fragrans), a saponin-containing houseplant. |
| Golden beet | Beta vulgaris 'Golden' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs (entry: 'Beets', Beta vulgaris). As with all beets, the mature greens are high in oxalic acid and should be offered only occasionally to pets, especially those with a history of urinary stones. |
| Green Zebra striped tomato | Solanum lycopersicum 'Green Zebra' | edible | Toxic | Being a Solanum lycopersicum cultivar, the tomato plant is ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses due to solanine and tomatine in the leaves, stems, and unripe fruit; the ripe (green-when-mature) fruit flesh is non-toxic. Green-part ingestion can cause hypersalivation, GI upset, weakness, dilated pupils, and slow heart rate. |
| Habanero chilli | Capsicum chinense 'Habanero' | edible | Mildly toxic | Capsicum chinense is not individually listed by the ASPCA (the ASPCA 'Ornamental Pepper' toxic entry refers to Solanum pseudocapsicum, not culinary chillies). The very high capsaicin concentration acts as a strong mucous-membrane and GI irritant, capable of intense mouth pain, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea in cats and dogs. Keep fruit out of reach and consult a vet on ingestion. |
| Jalapeno chilli | Capsicum annuum 'Jalapeño' | edible | Toxic | Capsicum annuum is a Solanaceae nightshade; the ASPCA lists ornamental pepper (Capsicum annuum) as toxic to cats and dogs, with solanine in the foliage as the toxic principle, causing gastrointestinal upset and vomiting. Beyond this, the capsaicin in jalapeño pods is a strong irritant to pets' mouths, eyes, and gut, so keep both plant and fruit away from cats and dogs. |
| January King winter cabbage | Brassica oleracea var. capitata 'January King' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Cabbage is not on the ASPCA toxic-plant list and is among the cruciferous vegetables the ASPCA considers safe for dogs and cats in moderation. Raw cabbage contains goitrogens and large quantities cause gas and GI upset, so serve only small, occasional, ideally cooked portions. |
| Lemon cucumber | Cucumis sativus 'Lemon' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) is ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs, and 'Lemon' is a cultivar of that species. Plain cucumber fruit is safe for pets in small amounts; very bitter, cucurbitacin-rich fruit can cause stomach upset and should be discarded, and large quantities of any vegetable may cause mild digestive upset. |
| Listada de Gandia eggplant | Solanum melongena 'Listada de Gandia' | edible | Toxic | The ASPCA classes Solanum species as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The foliage, stems, flowers and unripe fruit contain solanine, a glycoalkaloid; ingestion can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy and, in quantity, neurological and cardiac signs. The ripe cooked fruit is a normal human food, but keep pets away from the plant itself. |
| Music garlic | Allium sativum var. ophioscorodon 'Music' | edible | Toxic | Garlic (Allium sativum), this cultivar's species, is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, and is considered more potent than onion by weight. The toxic principle is N-propyl disulfide, causing oxidative red-blood-cell damage and Heinz-body haemolytic anaemia. Signs include vomiting, weakness, rapid heart rate, panting, and blood in the urine; all forms are dangerous. |
| Padron frying pepper | Capsicum annuum 'Padrón' | edible | Mildly toxic | Culinary Capsicum is not individually listed by the ASPCA (the ASPCA 'Ornamental Pepper' toxic entry is Solanum pseudocapsicum, the unrelated Jerusalem cherry). Capsaicin in the fruit and foliage is a mucous-membrane and GI irritant that can cause drooling, mouth pain, vomiting and diarrhoea in pets. Keep pods away from cats and dogs and verify with a vet if ingested. |
| Painted Mountain flour corn | Zea mays 'Painted Mountain' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | True maize (Zea mays) is not listed on the ASPCA toxic plant list and is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs; cobs pose a choking/obstruction hazard rather than a poisoning one. Do not confuse it with the ASPCA-toxic 'Corn Plant' (Dracaena fragrans), an unrelated houseplant containing saponins. |
| Round carrot | Daucus carota subsp. sativus 'Paris Market' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs (entry: 'Carrot Flower / Garden Carrot', Daucus carota var. sativa). The round roots and ferny tops are safe; carrots are a widely used low-risk pet treat, with the only minor caveat being psoralens in the foliage that can cause occasional mild skin sensitivity on handling. |
| Purple Haze carrot | Daucus carota subsp. sativus 'Purple Haze' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs (entry: 'Carrot Flower / Garden Carrot', Daucus carota var. sativa). Both the root and ferny tops are safe; carrots are a common low-risk pet treat, though the foliage contains psoralens that can occasionally cause mild skin sensitivity on handling. |
| Purple sprouting broccoli | Brassica oleracea var. italica 'Purple Sprouting' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Broccoli is not on the ASPCA toxic-plant list, and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center lists broccoli among safe snack vegetables for dogs and cats in moderation. The spears contain isothiocyanates that can irritate the stomach in large amounts, so keep portions small and occasional. |
| Red Baron red onion | Allium cepa 'Red Baron' | edible | Toxic | Onion (Allium cepa), this cultivar's species, is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. The toxic principle is N-propyl disulfide, which oxidises red blood cells and causes Heinz-body haemolytic anaemia. Watch for vomiting, lethargy, weakness, rapid breathing, and red-tinged urine; all parts are toxic raw, cooked, powdered, or dried. |
| Red Russian kale | Brassica napus var. pabularia 'Red Russian' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Kale is not listed on the ASPCA toxic-plant list and is among the cruciferous vegetables the ASPCA considers safe for dogs and cats in moderation. As with all kale, raw leaves are oxidising and large amounts may cause gas, GI upset or, in cats, Heinz-body anaemia, so offer only small, occasional portions. |
| Romanesco cauliflower | Brassica oleracea var. botrytis 'Romanesco' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Brassica vegetables (broccoli/cauliflower) are not on the ASPCA toxic-plant list, and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center lists broccoli and cauliflower among safe snack vegetables for dogs and cats in moderation. Large quantities can cause gas, GI upset and goitrogenic effects, so keep to small, occasional portions. |
| San Marzano plum tomato | Solanum lycopersicum 'San Marzano' | edible | Toxic | Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. The foliage, stems, and green unripe fruit contain solanine and tomatine glycoalkaloids; signs of ingestion include drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, weakness, and dilated pupils. Only the ripe fruit is edible for people. |
| Runner bean | Phaseolus coccineus 'Scarlet Emperor' | edible | Mildly toxic | Not individually listed on the ASPCA toxic plant database, so genus status is uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Importantly, raw runner beans and seeds contain lectins (phytohaemagglutinin) and are not safe for pets or people to eat uncooked, causing vomiting and digestive upset. Cooked beans are the edible form; keep raw pods and dried seeds away from pets. |
| Shishito frying pepper | Capsicum annuum 'Shishito' | edible | Mildly toxic | Capsicum annuum is not individually listed by the ASPCA (the ASPCA 'Ornamental Pepper' toxic entry is Solanum pseudocapsicum, not culinary peppers). Although Shishito is mild for people, its capsaicin and plant foliage still irritate pets' mucous membranes and gut, causing drooling, mouth pain, vomiting or diarrhoea. Keep pods and plants away from cats and dogs and check with a vet if eaten. |
| Sungold orange cherry tomato | Solanum lycopersicum 'Sungold' | edible | Toxic | As a Solanum lycopersicum cultivar, the tomato plant is ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Solanine and tomatine in the foliage, stems, and unripe green fruit are the hazard; ripe orange fruit is non-toxic. Ingestion of green parts can cause hypersalivation, GI upset, weakness, dilated pupils, and a slow heart rate. |
| Trombone squash | Cucurbita moschata 'Tromboncino' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Cucurbita squashes are ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs (the ASPCA lists Zucchini, Acorn and Hubbard squash as non-toxic), and Tromboncino is a Cucurbita moschata. As with any plant, large amounts of foliage or fruit may cause mild stomach upset, and the rare bitter, cucurbitacin-laden fruit should not be eaten — discard any squash that tastes intensely bitter. |
| Walla Walla sweet onion | Allium cepa 'Walla Walla' | edible | Toxic | Onion (Allium cepa), this cultivar's species, is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. The toxic principle is N-propyl disulfide, which causes oxidative damage to red blood cells leading to Heinz-body haemolytic anaemia. Signs include vomiting, weakness, rapid heart rate, panting, and blood in the urine; all onion parts are dangerous raw, cooked, or dried. |
| Watermelon radish | Raphanus sativus 'Watermelon' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Cultivated radish (Raphanus sativus) is non-toxic to cats and dogs; the ASPCA does not list it as toxic. The ASPCA's separate 'Wild Radish' entry is a different species (Raphanus raphanistrum), toxic only to horses via isothiocyanates. Feed the peppery leaves and roots only in moderation, as they can cause mild stomach upset. |
| Spoon Daisy | Osteospermum jucundum | flowering | Mildly toxic | Osteospermum jucundum is not listed on the ASPCA Toxic or Non-Toxic Plants database. As a member of Asteraceae, mild gastrointestinal upset is possible if ingested by pets; classified as mildly toxic out of caution until a specific ASPCA listing is available. |
| Edward Goucher abelia | Abelia x 'Edward Goucher' | flowering | Mildly toxic | Abelia is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its status is officially uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet if ingestion occurs. It is widely reported as non-toxic and is sometimes used as livestock hedging, but with no ASPCA listing a pet-safe label cannot be guaranteed. |
| Kaleidoscope abelia | Abelia x grandiflora 'Kaleidoscope' | flowering | Mildly toxic | Abelia is not individually listed on the ASPCA's toxic or non-toxic plant database, so this cultivar's status for cats and dogs is unconfirmed; treat with caution, discourage chewing, and consult a vet if ingestion occurs. Do not assume it is pet-safe. |
| Rose Creek abelia | Abelia x grandiflora 'Rose Creek' | flowering | Mildly toxic | Abelia is not individually listed on the ASPCA's toxic or non-toxic plant database, so this cultivar's status for cats and dogs is unconfirmed; treat with caution, discourage chewing, and verify with a vet if ingestion occurs. Do not assume it is pet-safe. |
| Chinese abelia | Abelia chinensis | flowering | Mildly toxic | Abelia is not individually listed on the ASPCA's toxic or non-toxic plant database, so its status for cats and dogs is unconfirmed; treat with caution, discourage chewing, and consult a vet if ingestion occurs. Do not assume it is pet-safe. |
| glossy abelia | Abelia x grandiflora | flowering | Mildly toxic | Abelia is not individually listed on the ASPCA's toxic or non-toxic plant database, so its status for cats and dogs is unconfirmed; treat with caution, discourage chewing, and verify with a vet if ingestion occurs. Do not assume it is pet-safe. |
| Abiqua Drinking Gourd hosta | Hosta 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd' | flowering | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Hosta as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is saponins, with ingestion causing vomiting, diarrhoea, and depression. Keep pets from nibbling the leaves and discard trimmings safely. |
| Abiu | Pouteria caimito | tropical | Mildly toxic | Pouteria caimito is not individually listed by the ASPCA, so its status for pets is uncertain. The unripe fruit and cut surfaces ooze gummy latex that sticks to the lips and mouth and can irritate; only the fully ripe pulp is palatable. Treat as potentially harmful to pets and verify with a vet before allowing access. |
| Abyssinian peperomia | Peperomia abyssinica | houseplant | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | The Peperomia genus is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA across multiple species entries. Peperomia abyssinica contains no known toxic principles and is safe in homes with pets. |
| Açaí | Euterpe oleracea | tropical | Mildly toxic | Euterpe oleracea is not individually listed by the ASPCA, so its pet status is not formally established; treat with caution and verify with a vet. The açaí berry is a human food, but the plant is not confirmed pet-safe, so do not assume it is non-toxic — discourage cats and dogs from chewing the fronds or fruit. |
| Busy Lizzie | Impatiens walleriana | flowering | Mildly toxic | Impatiens walleriana is listed by the ASPCA as mildly toxic to dogs and cats, with the potential to cause mild gastrointestinal upset including vomiting and diarrhoea if ingested. Not considered severely toxic, but prevent pets from eating large quantities. |
| Red Snakebark Maple | Acer capillipes | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Not individually listed by the ASPCA, but ornamental snakebark maples are not classed as toxic to cats or dogs; the ASPCA lists only Acer rubrum, and that specifically for horses. This species is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. As a maple-wide precaution, keep horses away from wilted maple leaves. |
| Paperbark Maple | Acer griseum | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Not individually listed by the ASPCA, but ornamental maples other than Red Maple are not classed as toxic to cats or dogs; the ASPCA flags only Acer rubrum, and that specifically for horses. Paperbark maple is regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs. As a precaution, keep horses away from wilted maple foliage of any species. |
| Fullmoon Maple | Acer japonicum 'Aconitifolium' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Not individually listed by the ASPCA, but ornamental Japanese and fullmoon maples are not classed as toxic to cats or dogs; the ASPCA lists only Acer rubrum, and that specifically for horses. This cultivar is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. As a general maple precaution, keep horses away from wilted leaves. |
| Purple Japanese Maple | Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Not individually listed by the ASPCA, but Japanese maples are not classed as toxic to cats or dogs; the ASPCA lists only Acer rubrum, and that specifically for horses. Acer palmatum, including this purple cultivar, is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. As a maple-wide precaution, keep horses away from wilted foliage. |
| Butterfly Japanese Maple | Acer palmatum 'Butterfly' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Acer palmatum is not listed on the ASPCA toxic plant database and is regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs (unlike red and silver maples, which are toxic to horses). Chewed leaves or splintered twigs may cause mild gastrointestinal upset or a choking risk, but no systemic poisoning. |
| Laceleaf Japanese Maple | Acer palmatum 'Dissectum' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Acer palmatum is not listed on the ASPCA toxic plant database and is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs (unlike red and silver maples, which are toxic to horses). Chewed leaves or splintered twigs may cause mild gastrointestinal upset or a choking hazard, but no systemic poisoning. |
| Garnet Japanese Maple | Acer palmatum 'Garnet' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Acer palmatum is not listed on the ASPCA toxic plant database and is regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs (unlike red and silver maples, which are toxic to horses). Chewed foliage or splintered twigs may cause mild gastrointestinal upset or pose a choking risk, but no systemic poisoning. |
| Orangeola Japanese Maple | Acer palmatum 'Orangeola' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Acer palmatum is not listed on the ASPCA toxic plant database and is widely considered non-toxic to cats and dogs (unlike red/silver maples, which are dangerous to horses). Chewed leaves or splintered twigs may cause mild gastrointestinal upset or a choking hazard, but no systemic poisoning. |
| Red Maple | Acer rubrum | flowering | Mildly toxic | ASPCA lists Red Maple as toxic to horses but non-toxic to dogs and cats. The toxic principle (tannins and gallic acid metabolised to pyrogallol by gut bacteria) damages equine red blood cells, especially from wilted or fallen leaves; signs in horses include weakness, dark mucous membranes, discoloured urine and laminitis. Safe around cats and dogs, but keep wilted leaves away from horses. |
| Autumn Blaze Maple | Acer rubrum 'Autumn Blaze' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | This is a hybrid of red maple (Acer rubrum), which the ASPCA lists as non-toxic to dogs and cats, so it is considered pet-safe for them. Caution for horse owners: red maple foliage is TOXIC to horses — wilted leaves cause haemolytic anaemia via pyrogallol — so keep leaves and prunings out of horse pasture. |
| October Glory Red Maple | Acer rubrum 'October Glory' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | The ASPCA lists Red Maple (Acer rubrum) as non-toxic to dogs and cats, so this cultivar is considered pet-safe for them. Important: red maple is TOXIC to horses — wilted or dried leaves contain tannins/gallic acid converted to pyrogallol, causing severe haemolytic anaemia. Keep prunings and fallen leaves away from horses. |
| Acerola | Malpighia emarginata | tropical | Mildly toxic | Malpighia emarginata is not individually listed in the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its status for cats and dogs is unverified. Treat with caution and verify with a vet before assuming it is safe; do not rely on third-party 'pet-safe' claims that lack ASPCA grounding. |
| Achachairu | Garcinia humilis | tropical | Mildly toxic | Garcinia humilis is not listed on the ASPCA toxic or non-toxic plant databases. The fruit is consumed fresh in Bolivia and commercialised in Australia under the name 'Achacha', with no documented human toxicity. Veterinary safety data is absent and the genus is not ASPCA-cleared; keep pets away from plant material and fallen fruit as a precaution. |
| Terracotta yarrow | Achillea 'Terracotta' | flowering | Toxic | ASPCA lists yarrow (Achillea millefolium) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses; the toxic principles are glycoalkaloids (achillein), monoterpenes and sesquiterpene lactones (achillin). Reported signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, anorexia, dermatitis and depression. Keep grazing pets away from this Achillea hybrid. |
| Cerise Queen yarrow | Achillea millefolium 'Cerise Queen' | flowering | Mildly toxic | Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, causing increased salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, and dermatitis from achilleine and related compounds; this cultivar is the species itself and should be treated as toxic to pets. |
| The Pearl yarrow | Achillea ptarmica 'The Pearl' | flowering | Toxic | The Achillea genus is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats, dogs and horses (yarrow, Achillea millefolium), with glycoalkaloids (achillein), monoterpenes and sesquiterpene lactones (achillin) as the toxic principles. As a member of the same genus, A. ptarmica 'The Pearl' should be treated as toxic; signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, anorexia, dermatitis and depression. |
| hot water plant | Achimenes longiflora | flowering | Mildly toxic | Achimenes is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic/Non-Toxic Plants database. While it belongs to the gesneriad family (Gesneriaceae) alongside the ASPCA-confirmed non-toxic African violet, the genus itself is not specifically evaluated. Treat with caution as mildly toxic, keep pets from chewing it, and verify with a vet if ingestion is suspected. |
| cascade violet night achimenes | Achimenes 'Cascade Violet Night' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Pet-safe per ASPCA: Achimenes (hot water plant, Cupid's bower) is documented as non-toxic to cats and dogs on ASPCA-referenced plant lists, and its family Gesneriaceae includes ASPCA-confirmed non-toxic relatives (Tree Gloxinia/Kohleria, African violet). No toxic principle is reported. |
| peach blossom hot water plant | Achimenes 'Peach Blossom' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Pet-safe per ASPCA: Achimenes (hot water plant, Cupid's bower) is documented as non-toxic to cats and dogs on ASPCA-referenced plant lists, and its family Gesneriaceae includes ASPCA-confirmed non-toxic relatives (Tree Gloxinia/Kohleria, African violet). No toxic principle is reported. |
| tarantella achimenes | Achimenes 'Tarantella' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Pet-safe per ASPCA: Achimenes (hot water plant, Cupid's bower) is documented as non-toxic to cats and dogs on ASPCA-referenced plant lists, and its family Gesneriaceae includes ASPCA-confirmed non-toxic relatives (Tree Gloxinia/Kohleria, African violet). No toxic principle is reported. |
| Cupid's bower | Achimenes erecta | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Pet-safe per ASPCA: Achimenes (Cupid's bower, hot water plant) is documented as non-toxic to cats and dogs on ASPCA-referenced plant lists, and its family Gesneriaceae includes ASPCA-confirmed non-toxic relatives (Tree Gloxinia/Kohleria, African violet). No toxic principle is reported. |
| large-flowered achimenes | Achimenes grandiflora | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Pet-safe per ASPCA: Achimenes (hot water plant, Cupid's bower, orchid pansy) is documented as non-toxic to cats and dogs on ASPCA-referenced plant lists, and its family Gesneriaceae includes ASPCA-confirmed non-toxic relatives (Tree Gloxinia/Kohleria, African violet). No toxic principle is reported. |
| pepper squash | Cucurbita pepo | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Cucurbita species are not listed by the ASPCA. Safe around cats and dogs. |
| Acorn Squash | Cucurbita pepo 'Acorn' | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Cucurbita pepo (acorn squash) is not listed as toxic to dogs or cats by ASPCA. The cooked flesh is safe and palatable for pets in small amounts. Plant stems and leaves have bristly hairs that can irritate skin on contact. |
| Japanese Sweet Flag | Acorus gramineus | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Acorus gramineus is not individually listed by the ASPCA. Sweet flag contains β-asarone (varying with the plant's origin) and is widely regarded as unsafe to ingest, so it should not be assumed pet-safe. Treat with caution, keep away from grazing pets, and verify with a vet if ingestion is suspected. |
| Variegated Japanese Sweet Flag | Acorus gramineus 'Variegatus' | houseplant | Mildly toxic | This cultivar of Acorus gramineus is not individually listed by the ASPCA. Sweet flag contains β-asarone and is generally considered unsafe to ingest, so do not assume it is pet-safe. Treat with caution, keep grazing pets away, and verify with a vet if ingestion is suspected. |
| fuzzy kiwi | Actinidia deliciosa | edible | Mildly toxic | Actinidia deliciosa is not individually listed in the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so pet-safety cannot be confirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Like other Actinidia, it can attract and intoxicate cats similarly to silvervine, and ingestion of large amounts of leaves or fruit may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. |
| variegated kiwi vine | Actinidia kolomikta | edible | Mildly toxic | Actinidia kolomikta is not individually listed in the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so a definitive pet-safe status cannot be confirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Note that, like silvervine (Actinidia polygama), Actinidia species can attract and intoxicate cats, who may chew and damage stems; large amounts of foliage or fruit may cause mild stomach upset. |
| adagio maiden grass | Miscanthus sinensis 'Adagio' | flowering | Mildly toxic | Miscanthus sinensis is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its pet status is uncertain; treat with caution and confirm with a vet rather than assuming it is pet-safe. The realistic risk from ornamental grasses is mechanical, with sharp leaf edges and barbed seed awns able to cut a pet's mouth or lodge in eyes and ears. |
| Adagio Maiden Grass | Miscanthus sinensis 'Adagio' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Miscanthus sinensis 'Adagio' is not individually listed on the ASPCA toxic or non-toxic plant databases. No toxic principles are known for Miscanthus. Leaf margins are moderately sharp and can mechanically irritate the mouth or skin if chewed. Consult a veterinarian if a pet ingests a large quantity. |
| Adams Elderberry | Sambucus nigra 'Adams' | edible | Mildly toxic | Sambucus is listed by ASPCA as toxic to dogs and cats. Raw unripe berries, bark, leaves, and roots contain cyanogenic glycosides and sambunigrin, causing vomiting and diarrhoea. Ripe berries are traditionally cooked for human use (syrup, jam, wine), but all raw parts should be kept away from pets and children should be supervised around the plant. |
| Himalayan Maidenhair Fern | Adiantum venustum | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs. The maidenhair fern (Adiantum) is a true fern carried on the ASPCA non-toxic plant list with no toxic principle; unlike the deceptively named asparagus fern it poses no oxalate or saponin risk, though nibbling any plant can cause mild stomach upset. |
| Adolphe Audusson camellia | Camellia japonica 'Adolphe Audusson' | flowering | Mildly toxic | Camellia japonica is listed by ASPCA as non-toxic to dogs and cats. However, some sources note that consumption of large quantities of leaves or seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to caffeine-related alkaloids present in the genus. Generally considered safe for pets but ingestion of plant material is not recommended. |
| Japanese Camellia | Camellia japonica 'Adolphe Audusson' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | The ASPCA lists Camellia (common camellia, Camellia japonica) as non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses. Ornamental camellias pose no known poisoning risk, though any plant can cause mild stomach upset if a pet eats a large amount. |
| Adriatic Bellflower | Campanula garganica | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Campanula species are not listed as toxic by the ASPCA. The genus has no reported toxic principles; considered non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. |
| plover eggs plant | Adromischus cooperi | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Adromischus cooperi is not individually listed by the ASPCA, and its family Crassulaceae includes both toxic genera (Kalanchoe, Crassula) and benign ones, so a pet-safe claim cannot be confirmed. Treat with caution, keep away from pets, and verify with a vet if ingestion is suspected; watch for drooling or vomiting. |
| key lime pie plant | Adromischus cristatus | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Adromischus cristatus is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its status is not formally confirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Sources conflict and it is sometimes confused with toxic Kalanchoe, so do not assume it is pet-safe. As with any succulent, ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats and dogs. |
| hemisphere adromischus | Adromischus hemisphaericus | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Adromischus is not individually listed on the ASPCA's toxic or non-toxic plant database, so its toxicity is unconfirmed. Treat with caution, keep out of reach of pets, and consult a vet if any is ingested. Do not assume it is pet-safe without veterinary confirmation. |
| calico hearts | Adromischus maculatus | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Adromischus maculatus is not individually listed by the ASPCA, and the Crassulaceae family it belongs to contains both toxic (Kalanchoe, Crassula) and harmless members, so it cannot be confirmed pet-safe. Treat with caution, keep out of pets' reach, and consult a vet if a pet ingests it; monitor for drooling or stomach upset. |
| marianiae adromischus | Adromischus marianiae | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Adromischus marianiae is not individually listed by the ASPCA, and its family Crassulaceae includes toxic genera (Kalanchoe, Crassula) alongside benign ones, so it cannot be declared pet-safe. Treat with caution, keep away from curious pets, and seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs; watch for drooling or gastrointestinal upset. |
| calico hearts adromischus | Adromischus trigynus | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Adromischus trigynus is not individually listed by the ASPCA, and the Crassulaceae family includes both toxic (Kalanchoe, Crassula) and harmless genera, so it cannot be confirmed pet-safe. Treat with caution, keep out of pets' reach, and consult a vet if ingestion is suspected; monitor for drooling or vomiting. |
| Adzuki Bean | Vigna angularis | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Vigna angularis is a traditional food legume across East Asia. The genus Vigna contains no known toxic principles for dogs or cats and is not listed as toxic by the ASPCA. Cooked adzuki beans are safe for pets in small amounts; raw beans contain lectins that may cause digestive upset if consumed in large quantities. |
| Blue Rain Bromeliad | Aechmea 'Blue Rain' | tropical | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs. Aechmea and other bromeliads are not classed as toxic, so this is a pet-safe houseplant; as with any plant, eating a large amount of foliage could still cause mild stomach upset. |
| Foster's favorite bromeliad | Aechmea 'Foster's Favorite' | tropical | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | The genus Aechmea (and bromeliads generally) is ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs. No toxic principle is reported, though stiff leaf tips can cause mechanical irritation if chewed. |
| orange bromeliad | Aechmea blanchetiana | tropical | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA classifies bromeliads of the genus Aechmea (Bromeliaceae) as non-toxic to cats and dogs, with no toxic principle identified. Its main hazard is mechanical: the stout, spine-edged leaves can cut pets and people, so position it well away from animals rather than worrying about poisoning. |
| Amazonian Zebra Plant | Aechmea chantinii | tropical | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs. Aechmea and bromeliads in general are not classified as toxic, making this a pet-safe houseplant; note that the stiff, finely spined leaf margins can physically scratch, so site it out of pets' paths. |
| cylindrical aechmea | Aechmea cylindrata | tropical | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Aechmea is a non-toxic bromeliad genus; the ASPCA lists bromeliads such as the Blushing Bromeliad as non-toxic to cats and dogs, and Aechmea species are confirmed non-toxic. The finely toothed leaf margins can still scratch, so handle with care around pets. |
| matchstick bromeliad | Aechmea gamosepala | tropical | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA classifies Aechmea bromeliads (Bromeliaceae) as non-toxic to cats and dogs, with no toxic principle identified. This species is nearly spineless and soft-leaved, so even the usual mechanical-scratch caveat is minimal; chewing may at most cause mild, transient stomach upset. |
| naked-stem aechmea | Aechmea nudicaulis | tropical | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Aechmea is a non-toxic bromeliad genus; the ASPCA lists bromeliads such as the Blushing Bromeliad as non-toxic to cats and dogs, and Aechmea species are confirmed non-toxic. Note the leaf margins are sharply spined and can cut skin or a pet's mouth. |
| Orlando's aechmea | Aechmea orlandiana | tropical | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Aechmea and bromeliads in general are ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs. There is no reported toxic principle; the spiny leaf margins pose only a mechanical, not chemical, hazard. |
| recurved aechmea | Aechmea recurvata | tropical | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA classifies Aechmea bromeliads (Bromeliaceae) as non-toxic to cats and dogs, with no toxic principle identified. The narrow leaves carry sharp marginal spines, so the practical risk is mechanical scratching of a pet's mouth, not poisoning. |
| Copper Pinwheel | Aeonium 'Sunburst' | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Aeonium is not individually listed in the ASPCA toxic or non-toxic plant database, so a firm ASPCA-grounded safe rating cannot be given. The genus is widely considered non-toxic in horticulture, but without ASPCA confirmation, treat with caution, keep out of pets' reach, and consult a vet if a pet eats it. |
| giant velvet rose | Aeonium canariense | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Aeonium is not individually listed by the ASPCA, so its status is unconfirmed; treat with caution as mildly toxic and verify with a vet before assuming it is safe. Most Crassulaceae succulents cause only mild gastrointestinal upset (drooling, vomiting) if chewed, but absence of an ASPCA listing means we do not assert pet-safe. |
| saucer plant variegated | Aeonium castello-paivae 'Variegata' | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Aeonium is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its status is not formally confirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. The genus is generally regarded as low-risk, but ingesting any succulent can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats and dogs. |
| green aeonium | Aeonium decorum | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Aeonium is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its safety is not formally confirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. The genus is generally considered low-risk, but any succulent can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if a cat or dog ingests it. |
| pinwheel aeonium | Aeonium haworthii | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Aeonium is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its status is not formally confirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet before assuming it is safe. The genus is widely regarded as low-risk, but ingestion of any succulent can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats and dogs. |
| Sim's aeonium | Aeonium simsii | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Aeonium is not individually listed on the ASPCA's toxic or non-toxic plant database, so its status is not formally confirmed. Treat it with caution and keep it away from pets; if your animal ingests any, contact a vet. Do not assume pet-safe without veterinary confirmation. |
| Sunburst aeonium | Aeonium davidbramwellii 'Sunburst' | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Aeonium is not individually listed by the ASPCA's toxic or non-toxic plant database, so its status is unconfirmed. Treat it with caution as potentially mildly irritating, keep it away from pets, and verify with a vet or ASPCA Poison Control if ingestion occurs rather than assuming it is pet-safe. |
| flat top aeonium | Aeonium tabuliforme | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Aeonium is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its safety is not formally confirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. The genus is generally considered low-risk, but any succulent can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if a cat or dog chews it. |
| velour aeonium | Aeonium arboreum 'Velour' | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Aeonium is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so a pet-safe label cannot be confirmed from an authoritative source. Third-party 'non-toxic' claims are not ASPCA-grounded. Treat with caution, keep out of reach of cats and dogs, and verify with a vet before assuming it is safe. |
| Two-lobed Aerangis | Aerangis biloba | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | The ASPCA lists orchids (Orchidaceae) as non-toxic to cats and dogs; Aerangis is a true orchid with no recognised toxic principle. Nibbling any plant can still cause mild, transient stomach upset. |
| Stately Aerangis | Aerangis fastuosa | tropical | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Aerangis is not listed among the ASPCA's toxic plants, and ornamental orchids are broadly regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs. No toxic principle is known. Chewed foliage may cause minor stomach upset from fibre alone, so discourage pets from nibbling the plant. |
| Yellow-white Aerangis | Aerangis luteoalba | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | The ASPCA lists orchids (Orchidaceae) as non-toxic to cats and dogs; Aerangis is a true orchid with no recognised toxic principle. Nibbling any plant can still cause mild, transient stomach upset. |
| Red-dotted Aerangis | Aerangis rhodosticta | tropical | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | The ASPCA lists orchids (Orchidaceae) as non-toxic to cats and dogs; Aerangis is a true orchid with no recognised toxic principle. Nibbling any plant can still cause mild, transient stomach upset. |
| black pagoda lipstick plant | Aeschynanthus 'Black Pagoda' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses (Lipstick Plant, Aeschynanthus humilis, family Gesneriaceae), with no toxic principles. Ingesting large amounts may still cause mild, short-lived gastrointestinal upset, as with most houseplants. |
| Mona Lisa lipstick plant | Aeschynanthus 'Mona Lisa' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs. As an Aeschynanthus (lipstick plant, family Gesneriaceae) cultivar, it inherits the genus status on the ASPCA non-toxic list (non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses, no toxic principles). Safe around pets, though chewing any houseplant may cause mild stomach upset. |
| curly lipstick plant | Aeschynanthus 'Rasta' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses (Lipstick Plant, Aeschynanthus humilis, family Gesneriaceae), with no toxic principles. As with any plant, nibbling large amounts may cause mild, transient stomach upset. |
| lipstick plant | Aeschynanthus lobbianus | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs. The lipstick plant (Aeschynanthus, family Gesneriaceae) is on the ASPCA non-toxic list, classified non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses with no toxic principles. Safe around pets, though chewing the foliage may cause mild, transient stomach upset. |
| zebra basket vine | Aeschynanthus marmoratus | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses (Lipstick Plant, Aeschynanthus humilis, family Gesneriaceae), with no toxic principles. Eating large amounts may still cause mild, transient stomach upset, as with most houseplants. |
| royal red bugler | Aeschynanthus pulcher | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs. Aeschynanthus (lipstick plant, family Gesneriaceae) is on the ASPCA non-toxic list, classified non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses with no toxic principles. Safe around pets, though, as with any plant, eating it may cause mild stomach upset. |
| Twisted lipstick plant | Aeschynanthus radicans 'Curly Q' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs (lipstick plant, Aeschynanthus). No recognised toxic principle, though it is not meant for consumption and large amounts could cause minor stomach upset. |
| orange lipstick plant | Aeschynanthus speciosus | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses (Lipstick Plant, Aeschynanthus humilis, family Gesneriaceae), with no toxic principles. As with any houseplant, eating large quantities could cause mild, temporary digestive upset. |
| tricolor lipstick plant | Aeschynanthus tricolor | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs. The lipstick plant (Aeschynanthus) appears on the ASPCA non-toxic plant list, so A. tricolor is considered pet-safe; even so, ingesting plant material can cause mild stomach upset, so discourage chewing. |
| horsechestnut-leaved rodgersia | Rodgersia aesculifolia | flowering | Mildly toxic | Rodgersia aesculifolia is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, and the genus is unlisted, so its pet status is unconfirmed. Despite the common name, it is unrelated to horse chestnut; with no authoritative ASPCA classification, treat it as uncertain rather than safe, discourage chewing, and verify with a vet. |
| Ruby Red Horse Chestnut | Aesculus × carnea 'Briotii' | flowering | Toxic | As an Aesculus, it is covered by the ASPCA's toxic listing for Horse Chestnut (toxic to dogs, cats and horses). All parts, including any conkers, contain aesculin and saponins; ingestion causes vomiting, diarrhoea, depression, dilated pupils, weakness and incoordination, with seizures in severe cases. |
| Yellow Buckeye | Aesculus flava | flowering | Toxic | Toxic to dogs and cats. The ASPCA lists buckeye/horse chestnut (Aesculus) as toxic; the toxic principles are aesculin and related glycosidic saponins present throughout the tree, including nuts, leaves, bark and shoots. Signs include vomiting, diarrhoea, depression or excitement, dilated pupils, twitching, incoordination and, in severe cases, convulsions. |
| Horse Chestnut | Aesculus hippocastanum | flowering | Toxic | ASPCA-listed as toxic to dogs, cats and horses (entered as 'Horse Chestnut'). All parts, especially the seeds (conkers), contain aesculin and other saponins; ingestion causes vomiting, diarrhoea, depression or excitement, dilated pupils, weakness and incoordination, with seizures and coma in severe cases. Conkers also pose a choking and obstruction hazard. |
| Affinis Elephant Ear | Colocasia affinis | tropical | Toxic | As a member of the Colocasia genus within Araceae, all parts of this plant contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. The ASPCA lists Colocasia esculenta as toxic to dogs and cats, and the same toxicity applies to C. affinis, causing oral irritation, drooling, and gastrointestinal upset if chewed or swallowed. |
| Afghan iris | Iris cycloglossa | flowering | Toxic | As a member of the Iris genus, Iris cycloglossa is toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA classifies the genus Iris as toxic). The bulb and fleshy storage roots contain irisin, terpenoids, and quinones. Signs of ingestion include salivation, vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy; veterinary advice should be sought immediately. |
| African Baobab | Adansonia digitata | tropical | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Adansonia digitata is not listed by the ASPCA as toxic to dogs or cats. The fruit pulp, leaves, seeds, and flowers are all widely consumed as human food across Africa with no documented toxicity to companion animals. The earlier search result conflating baobab with cycad toxicity is incorrect — Adansonia is in family Malvaceae, not Cycadaceae, and contains no cycasin. |
| Perennial Basil | Ocimum kilimandscharicum × basilicum 'Dark Opal' | herb | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA lists basil (Ocimum basilicum) as non-toxic to cats and dogs. African Blue is an Ocimum hybrid (O. kilimandscharicum × basilicum) with no reported toxic principle, so it is treated as pet-safe; its high camphor content means large ingestions could cause mild GI upset, so moderation is sensible. |
| African bush mango | Irvingia gabonensis | edible | Mildly toxic | Not individually listed by the ASPCA, and the genus Irvingia is not on its toxic or non-toxic plant lists; treat as uncertain and verify with a vet before allowing pet access. The ripe pulp is edible to humans and seeds are a food staple, but pet safety has not been ASPCA-confirmed, so do not assume it is pet-safe. |
| European Chain Fern | Woodwardia radicans | houseplant | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Not individually listed by the ASPCA. Woodwardia belongs to the Blechnaceae family of true ferns, which are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. |
| African cornflag | Chasmanthe aethiopica | flowering | Mildly toxic | Chasmanthe aethiopica is not specifically listed on the ASPCA toxic or non-toxic plant database. The corms contain bioactive compounds including flavonoids and terpenoids that may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if chewed by curious pets. Until a definitive ASPCA listing is confirmed, treat as mildly toxic and keep away from cats and dogs. |
| African Crossandra | Crossandra nilotica | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Crossandra (family Acanthaceae) is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. The genus has no reported toxic principle and is considered safe in homes with pets. |
| African feather grass | Pennisetum macrourum | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Pennisetum (fountain grass) genus is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. Pennisetum setaceum is on the ASPCA non-toxic plant list; P. macrourum belongs to the same genus with no reported toxic principles. Consuming large amounts of grass may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets. |
| Fern Pine | Podocarpus gracilior | houseplant | Toxic | Podocarpus species are listed by the ASPCA as toxic to dogs and cats; ingestion of the fleshy seed cones (arils) and foliage can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Keep away from pets and small children. |
| African Kedrostis | Kedrostis africana | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Kedrostis africana (Cucurbitaceae) is not individually listed by ASPCA. Many cucurbits contain cucurbitacins — bitter triterpenoid compounds — that can cause gastrointestinal irritation if ingested by pets or humans. Treat as mildly toxic and keep away from pets as a precaution. |
| African Liana Sundew | Triphyophyllum peltatum | tropical | Mildly toxic | Triphyophyllum peltatum is not listed in the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant database. The plant contains naphthylisoquinoline alkaloids (including dioncophylline A) that exhibit significant biological activity; the safety of these compounds to domestic pets is unstudied. Given the bioactive alkaloid content and the absence of any formal safety classification, this plant should not be considered pet-safe — seek immediate veterinary advice if a pet ingests any part of it. |
| African Mangosteen | Garcinia livingstonei | tropical | Mildly toxic | Garcinia livingstonei is not individually listed on the ASPCA toxic or non-toxic plant databases. No documented human toxicity reported in available horticultural literature. The genus as a whole is not ASPCA-cleared, so pet safety cannot be confirmed. Exercise caution and keep pets away from the plant and fallen fruit. |
| African marigold | Tagetes erecta | flowering | Mildly toxic | The ASPCA lists Tagetes species as mildly toxic to dogs and cats. The foliage and sap contain thiophene derivatives and can cause mild gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhoea) and contact dermatitis. Not considered life-threatening in typical exposure amounts. |
| African marigold | Tagetes erecta 'Crackerjack' | flowering | Mildly toxic | True marigolds (Tagetes, family Compositae) differ from the ASPCA's non-toxic 'Garden/Pot Marigold' (Calendula). Tagetes foliage contains phototoxic thiophenes and pungent essential oils that may cause mild gastrointestinal upset and skin or mouth irritation in cats and dogs; treat as mildly toxic and keep pets from chewing it. |
| African milk tree | Euphorbia trigona | houseplant | Toxic | Euphorbia trigona is not listed individually in the ASPCA database, but the genus is consistently toxic: the ASPCA lists close relatives such as pencil cactus (Euphorbia tirucalli), poinsettia and crown of thorns as toxic to dogs, cats and horses, with irritant latex sap as the toxic principle. Treat as toxic and verify with a vet: the milky white sap irritates skin and eyes and causes mouth, throat and GI irritation with vomiting if chewed. Keep away from pets and children. |
| African Moringa | Moringa stenopetala | edible | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Moringa stenopetala belongs to family Moringaceae, which has no documented cardiotoxic, calcium oxalate, or alkaloid-based toxicity to companion animals. It is not listed by the ASPCA. The edible leaf and pod tissues are well-tolerated by livestock across East Africa. As with M. oleifera, roots and bark contain isothiocyanates and should be kept away from pets in large quantities. |
| Oil Palm | Elaeis guineensis | tropical | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Elaeis guineensis belongs to the Arecaceae (true palm) family, which the ASPCA classifies as non-toxic to dogs and cats. The sharp leaflet tips may cause minor mechanical injury, but no toxic compounds are present in the plant. |
| African Spear | Sansevieria cylindrica | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Sansevieria species as toxic to cats and dogs due to saponins, which cause gastrointestinal upset including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea if ingested. Place out of reach of pets. |
| African Star Apple | Chrysophyllum africanum | tropical | Mildly toxic | Chrysophyllum africanum is not individually listed by ASPCA. The useful-tropical-plants database notes 'none known' for hazards, and the ripe fruit is widely consumed across West Africa. However, as with other Sapotaceae, seeds and bark may contain saponins. No formal pet toxicity assessment exists; exercise caution and keep pets away from seeds and plant debris. |
| African tamarisk | Tamarix africana | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Tamarix africana is not listed as toxic to cats or dogs by the ASPCA; the genus is generally regarded as non-toxic, though the salt secreted onto leaf surfaces can occasionally cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals. |
| Saintpaulia | Saintpaulia ionantha | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA lists Saintpaulia as non-toxic to cats and dogs. |
| blue African violet | Saintpaulia ionantha 'Blue Nile' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs (African violet, Saintpaulia, is classed as non-toxic). Safe around pets. |
| EverFloris African Violet | Saintpaulia 'Optimara EverFloris' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | African violet (Saintpaulia) is ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs, so 'Optimara EverFloris' is pet-safe. No toxic principle is associated with it, though eating large amounts of any plant may cause mild stomach upset. |
| miniature African violet | Saintpaulia ionantha 'Optimara Little Maya' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs (African violet, Saintpaulia, is classed as non-toxic). Safe to keep around pets. |
| Optimara African violet | Streptocarpus sect. Saintpaulia 'Optimara' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs. African violets (Saintpaulia, now within Streptocarpus) appear on the ASPCA non-toxic plant list, so an inquisitive nibble should cause no more than possible mild, transient stomach upset. |
| trailing African violet | Saintpaulia ionantha 'Rob's Boolaroo' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs (African violet, Saintpaulia, is classed as non-toxic). Safe to grow around pets. |
| African violet | Streptocarpus ionanthus | houseplant | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Listed as non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses by the ASPCA. Streptocarpus (including former Saintpaulia) is on the ASPCA non-toxic plant list. Safe for homes with pets. |
| African wild ginger | Siphonochilus aethiopicus | herb | Mildly toxic | Not listed in the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant Database. Rhizomes are widely used in traditional African medicine for human consumption, but laboratory research has recorded significant micronuclei induction and DNA damage potential in human cells from plant extracts, suggesting bioactive compounds. As specific pet-safety data is absent, classify as mildly-toxic — keep away from cats and dogs and consult a vet if ingestion occurs. |
| Wild Ginger | Siphonochilus aethiopicus | tropical | Mildly toxic | Not individually listed by the ASPCA. Siphonochilus aethiopicus is used medicinally in southern Africa, but its safety profile in companion animals is not documented. Out of caution, treat as mildly toxic and keep away from pets that may chew plant material. |
| African Wormwood | Artemisia afra | herb | Mildly toxic | Artemisia afra is not individually listed by the ASPCA. Acute toxicity studies in rodents confirm the aqueous extract has measurable biological activity; the genus broadly contains volatile oils (camphor, thujone derivatives) that are mildly toxic to pets. ASPCA classifies tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Treat A. afra as mildly toxic by genus association. Traditional human medicinal use is well-documented but dosage and route matter — garden exposure is low-risk but contact and ingestion should be avoided in pets. |
| broad-leaved yellowwood | Podocarpus latifolius | flowering | Toxic | Not individually listed by the ASPCA, but the genus Podocarpus is classified (as 'Buddhist Pine', Podocarpaceae) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. As a Podocarpus species, treat foliage and seeds as toxic and keep away from pets; verify with a vet if ingested. |
| Afro hard rush | Juncus inflexus 'Afro' | houseplant | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Juncus species, including Juncus effusus corkscrew rush, are not listed as toxic to dogs or cats by the ASPCA. Juncus inflexus is similarly considered non-toxic, though ingestion of significant quantities of any fibrous plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. |
| Afzelius Nephthytis | Nephthytis afzelii | tropical | Toxic | Not individually listed by the ASPCA, but Nephthytis is an aroid genus and all parts contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Ingestion causes oral burning, drooling, and swelling in cats, dogs, and humans. Keep away from pets and children. |
| Headbourne Hybrid agapanthus | Agapanthus 'Headbourne Hybrids' | flowering | Mildly toxic | Agapanthus is not individually listed in the ASPCA Toxic/Non-Toxic Plants database; it is not a true lily (not Liliaceae) and does not cause lily-type kidney failure. However the sap and rhizomes contain saponins that can cause drooling, vomiting and mouth irritation if chewed. Treat with caution and verify with a vet if ingested. |
| Midnight Blue agapanthus | Agapanthus 'Midnight Blue' | flowering | Mildly toxic | Agapanthus is not individually listed in the ASPCA Toxic/Non-Toxic Plants database and is not a true lily, so it does not cause lily-type renal failure. Its sap and rhizomes contain saponins that may cause drooling, oral irritation and vomiting if chewed. Treat with caution and verify with a vet if ingested. |
| Navy Blue agapanthus | Agapanthus 'Navy Blue' | flowering | Mildly toxic | Agapanthus is not individually listed in the ASPCA Toxic/Non-Toxic Plants database and is not a true lily, so it does not cause lily-type renal failure. Its sap and rhizomes hold saponins that can cause drooling, oral irritation and vomiting if chewed. Treat with caution and verify with a vet on ingestion. |
| white African lily | Agapanthus africanus 'Albus' | flowering | Mildly toxic | Agapanthus africanus is not individually listed in the ASPCA Toxic/Non-Toxic Plants database and is not a true lily, so it poses no lily-type kidney risk. The sap and rhizome contain saponins that can cause drooling, mouth irritation and vomiting if chewed. Treat with caution and verify with a vet if a pet ingests it. |
| drooping agapanthus | Agapanthus inapertus subsp. pendulus | flowering | Mildly toxic | Agapanthus inapertus is not individually listed in the ASPCA Toxic/Non-Toxic Plants database and is not a true lily, so it carries no lily-type kidney risk. Its sap and rhizome contain saponins that can cause drooling, mouth irritation and vomiting if chewed. Treat with caution and verify with a vet on ingestion. |
| Black Adder agastache | Agastache 'Black Adder' | flowering | Mildly toxic | Agastache 'Black Adder' is a hybrid not individually listed by the ASPCA; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Its parent anise hyssop, Agastache foeniculum, is ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses, but this cultivar is not specifically cleared, and its aromatic oils may cause mild GI upset if eaten in quantity. |
| Blue Fortune hyssop | Agastache 'Blue Fortune' | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Agastache foeniculum (anise hyssop), the dominant parent of 'Blue Fortune', is ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses. As with any plant, eating large amounts may cause mild, transient stomach upset, but it is not considered toxic. Identify correctly, as some other Agastache species and true hyssop (Hyssopus) differ. |
| Kudos Coral hummingbird mint | Agastache 'Kudos Coral' | flowering | Mildly toxic | Agastache is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic/Non-Toxic Plants database, so its status is uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet. As an aromatic member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), large ingestions of the essential-oil-rich foliage may cause mild gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhoea) in cats and dogs. |
| century plant | Agave americana | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave americana is not individually listed by the ASPCA in its toxic or non-toxic plant database, so its status is uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet. The sap contains irritant saponins and calcium oxalate that can cause drooling, mouth irritation and GI upset, and the teeth and terminal spine pose a real mechanical injury risk. |
| yellow-edged century plant | Agave americana 'Marginata' | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave americana and its cultivars are not individually listed by the ASPCA in its toxic or non-toxic plant database, so the status is uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet. The sap contains irritant saponins and calcium oxalate causing drooling, mouth irritation and GI upset, and the marginal teeth and tip spine pose a mechanical injury risk. |
| white-striped century plant | Agave americana 'Mediopicta Alba' | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave americana and its cultivars are not individually listed by the ASPCA in its toxic or non-toxic plant database, so the status is uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet. The sap holds irritant saponins and calcium oxalate that cause drooling, mouth irritation and GI upset, and the leaf teeth and tip spine pose a mechanical injury risk. |
| Caribbean agave | Agave angustifolia | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave angustifolia is not individually listed by the ASPCA; treat with caution and verify with a vet. As with other Agave species, veterinary poison-control sources document calcium oxalate crystals and saponins that cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and dermal irritation from the sap, plus injury from the sharp terminal spine and leaf teeth. |
| foxtail agave | Agave attenuata | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave attenuata is not individually listed by the ASPCA in its toxic or non-toxic plant database, so its status is uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Like other agaves the sap contains irritant saponins and calcium oxalate that can cause drooling, mouth irritation, vomiting and loose stools if chewed, though this species lacks the spines of its relatives. |
| Boutin blue foxtail agave | Agave attenuata 'Boutin Blue' | houseplant | Toxic | Agave is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs; the sap contains saponins and calcium oxalate crystals causing oral irritation, drooling and gastrointestinal upset, plus contact dermatitis. Though this spineless selection is gentle to handle, the irritant sap means pets should not chew the leaves. |
| cow horn agave | Agave bovicornuta | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave bovicornuta is not individually listed by the ASPCA; treat with caution and verify with a vet. The Agave genus is widely documented by veterinary poison-control sources to contain calcium oxalate crystals and saponins that cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and skin/contact irritation from the sap, plus injury risk from sharp leaf teeth and terminal spine. |
| squid agave | Agave bracteosa | houseplant | Toxic | Agave is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs; the sap contains saponins and calcium oxalate crystals causing oral irritation, drooling and gastrointestinal upset, plus contact dermatitis. Although this species is spineless and safe to handle, the irritant sap means pets should still be kept from chewing it. |
| Prism Cactus | Leuchtenbergia principis | houseplant | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Leuchtenbergia principis is a true cactus (family Cactaceae), not an agave, and is not listed as toxic to cats or dogs by the ASPCA. Despite its resemblance to Agave (which is listed as a toxic genus by the ASPCA), Leuchtenbergia is botanically distinct and presents no significant chemical toxicity. The long, sharp papery spines are its primary physical hazard. |
| golden-flowered agave | Agave chrysantha | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave chrysantha is not individually listed by the ASPCA; treat with caution and verify with a vet. As a member of the Agave genus, it is reported by veterinary poison-control sources to contain calcium oxalate crystals and saponins that cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and contact dermatitis from the sap, plus injury from sharp leaf teeth and the terminal spine. |
| Mescal ceniza | Agave colorata | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave colorata is not individually listed by the ASPCA; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Like other Agave species, veterinary poison-control sources document calcium oxalate crystals and saponins that cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and dermal irritation from the sap, with added injury risk from the bold teeth and sharp terminal spine. |
| desert agave | Agave deserti | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave deserti is not individually listed by the ASPCA; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Like other agaves, it is reported by veterinary poison-control sources to contain calcium oxalate crystals and saponins causing oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and skin irritation from the sap, with added injury risk from the rigid spines and teeth. |
| irregular agave | Agave difformis | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave difformis is not individually listed by the ASPCA; treat with caution and verify with a vet. As an Agave species it is reported by veterinary poison-control sources to contain calcium oxalate crystals and saponins causing oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and skin irritation from the sap, plus injury risk from the leaf teeth and terminal spine. |
| thread agave | Agave filifera | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA toxic or non-toxic plant database. The genus contains calcium oxalate raphides and steroidal saponins in its sap, which can cause oral and gastrointestinal irritation (drooling, vomiting) if chewed and contact dermatitis on skin. Treat with caution, keep away from pets, and verify with a vet if ingestion occurs. |
| twin-flowered agave | Agave geminiflora | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA toxic or non-toxic plant database. The genus carries calcium oxalate raphides and steroidal saponins in its sap that can cause mouth and gastrointestinal irritation (drooling, vomiting) if chewed and skin dermatitis on contact. Keep away from pets and seek veterinary advice if a pet ingests it. |
| Guiengola agave | Agave guiengola | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave guiengola is not individually listed by the ASPCA; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Like other agaves, it is reported by veterinary poison-control sources to contain calcium oxalate crystals and saponins that cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and skin irritation from the sap, with added injury risk from the leaf teeth and terminal spine. |
| Havard's agave | Agave havardiana | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Agave (Agave species, e.g. Agave americana) as toxic to dogs and cats. Sap and the leaf raphides contain calcium oxalate and saponins, causing skin and mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea; the sharp terminal spine is a separate puncture hazard. |
| dwarf butterfly agave | Agave isthmensis | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA classifies Agave as toxic to dogs and cats. The sap and leaf tissue contain calcium oxalate raphides and saponins, which can cause oral and skin irritation, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea if chewed; the marginal and terminal spines are an added physical hazard. |
| lechuguilla | Agave lechuguilla | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Agave as toxic to dogs and cats. Lechuguilla is additionally well documented as toxic to grazing livestock, with leaf saponins and calcium oxalate causing photosensitisation and liver/kidney effects; for pets the chewed sap causes oral irritation, drooling and GI upset, and the terminal spine is a puncture risk. |
| thorn-crested agave | Agave lophantha | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA toxic or non-toxic plant database. The genus contains calcium oxalate raphides and steroidal saponins, which can cause oral and gastrointestinal irritation (drooling, vomiting) if chewed and contact dermatitis from the sap. Treat as a caution plant around pets and consult a vet if ingestion happens. |
| large-thorned agave | Agave macroacantha | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA classifies Agave as toxic to dogs and cats. The sap and leaf raphides contain calcium oxalate and saponins, which on chewing cause oral and skin irritation, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea; the long black terminal spine is a notable puncture hazard. |
| marbled agave | Agave marmorata | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Agave as toxic to dogs and cats. Leaf sap contains calcium oxalate raphides and saponins, which cause oral and skin irritation, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea if chewed; the terminal leaf spines pose a physical puncture risk. |
| mild agave | Agave mitis | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA classifies Agave as toxic to dogs and cats. Despite its softer leaves, the sap contains calcium oxalate raphides and saponins, which cause oral and skin irritation, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea if chewed; treat it like any other agave around pets. |
| mountain agave | Agave montana | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA toxic or non-toxic plant database. The genus contains calcium oxalate raphides and steroidal saponins, which can cause oral and gastrointestinal irritation (drooling, vomiting) if chewed and contact dermatitis from the sap. Treat as a caution plant around pets and consult a vet if ingestion occurs. |
| chahuiqui | Agave multifilifera | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA classifies Agave as toxic to dogs and cats. The leaf sap contains calcium oxalate raphides and saponins, which cause oral and skin irritation, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea if chewed; the terminal spine remains a puncture hazard even though the leaf margins bear soft threads rather than teeth. |
| Nickels' agave | Agave nickelsiae | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA classifies Agave as toxic to dogs and cats. The leaf sap contains calcium oxalate raphides and saponins, which cause oral and skin irritation, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea if chewed; the single hard black terminal spine is an additional puncture hazard. |
| Nizanda agave | Agave nizandensis | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its status is not formally confirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Agave leaves and sap contain irritating calcium oxalate crystals and saponins that can cause drooling, mouth and skin irritation, vomiting and diarrhoea if chewed. Keep away from pets that nibble plants. |
| whale's tongue agave | Agave ovatifolia | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA toxic or non-toxic plant database. The genus contains calcium oxalate raphides and steroidal saponins in its sap that can cause mouth and gastrointestinal irritation (drooling, vomiting) if chewed and contact dermatitis on skin. Keep out of reach of pets and seek veterinary advice if a pet ingests it. |
| Palmer's agave | Agave palmeri | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its status is unconfirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. The leaves and sap contain calcium oxalate crystals and saponins that can irritate the mouth and skin and cause drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea if chewed. The sharp terminal spine is a physical hazard to pets and people. |
| Parras agave | Agave parrasana | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its status is unconfirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Leaf tissue and sap contain calcium oxalate crystals and saponins that can cause oral and skin irritation, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea if chewed. Keep away from pets inclined to nibble. |
| Parry's agave | Agave parryi | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave parryi is not individually listed by the ASPCA in its toxic or non-toxic plant database, so its status is uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet. As with other agaves the sap contains irritant saponins and calcium oxalate that can cause drooling, mouth irritation and GI upset, and the terminal spines pose a mechanical injury risk. |
| artichoke agave cultivar | Agave parryi 'Truncata' | houseplant | Toxic | Agave is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs; the sap contains saponins and calcium oxalate crystals causing oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and contact dermatitis. The sharp dark terminal spine on each leaf is a notable puncture hazard to pets and people. |
| artichoke agave | Agave parryi var. truncata | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave parryi var. truncata is not individually listed by the ASPCA in its toxic or non-toxic plant database, so its status is uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Like other agaves the sap contains irritant saponins and calcium oxalate that can cause drooling, mouth irritation and GI upset, and the terminal spines pose a mechanical injury risk. |
| pelon agave | Agave pelona | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its status is unconfirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Like other agaves, the leaves and sap contain calcium oxalate crystals and saponins that can irritate the mouth and skin and cause drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea if chewed. The hard terminal spine is also a physical hazard. |
| butterfly agave | Agave potatorum | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA toxic or non-toxic plant database. The genus contains calcium oxalate raphides and steroidal saponins, which can cause oral and gastrointestinal irritation (drooling, vomiting) if chewed and contact dermatitis from the sap. Treat with caution around pets and consult a vet if ingestion occurs. |
| fiber agave | Agave schidigera | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its status is unconfirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. The leaves and sap contain calcium oxalate crystals and saponins that can cause oral and skin irritation, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea if chewed. Keep away from pets that chew plants. |
| Shreve's agave | Agave shrevei | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its status is unconfirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. The leaves and sap contain calcium oxalate crystals and saponins that can cause mouth and skin irritation, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea if chewed. The teeth and terminal spine are also a physical hazard to pets. |
| Baja mescal | Agave sobria | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its status is unconfirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. The leaves and sap contain calcium oxalate crystals and saponins that can cause oral and skin irritation, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea if chewed. The marginal teeth and terminal spine are also a physical hazard. |
| narrow-leaf agave | Agave striata | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so its status is unconfirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. The leaves and sap contain calcium oxalate crystals and saponins that can cause mouth and skin irritation, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea if chewed. The needle-sharp leaf tips are a notable physical hazard to pets, children and eyes. |
| hedgehog agave | Agave stricta | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA toxic or non-toxic plant database. The genus contains calcium oxalate raphides and steroidal saponins in its sap that can cause mouth and gastrointestinal irritation (drooling, vomiting) if chewed and contact dermatitis on skin. Keep away from pets and seek veterinary advice if a pet ingests it. |
| blue agave | Agave tequilana | edible | Mildly toxic | Agave tequilana is not individually listed by the ASPCA; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Although the cooked core is used to make tequila and agave syrup for humans, the raw plant contains calcium oxalate crystals and saponins documented by veterinary sources to irritate the mouth and gut and cause vomiting in pets; sharp leaf spines pose a physical hazard. |
| chalk agave | Agave titanota | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed on the ASPCA toxic or non-toxic plant database. The genus contains calcium oxalate raphides and steroidal saponins in its sap that can cause mouth and gastrointestinal irritation (drooling, vomiting) if chewed and contact dermatitis on skin. Keep away from pets and seek veterinary advice if a pet ingests it. |
| Toumey's agave | Agave toumeyana | houseplant | Toxic | Agave is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs (Agave species, e.g. Agave americana); the sap contains irritant saponins and calcium oxalate crystals causing oral and skin irritation, drooling, and gastrointestinal upset if chewed. The leaf tips and teeth can also cause physical injury. |
| Utah agave | Agave utahensis | houseplant | Toxic | Agave is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs; the sap contains saponins and calcium oxalate crystals that cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and skin contact dermatitis. The rigid terminal spine and marginal teeth also pose a puncture hazard to curious pets. |
| Queen Victoria agave | Agave victoriae-reginae | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave victoriae-reginae is not individually listed by the ASPCA in its toxic or non-toxic plant database, so its status is uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Like other agaves the sap contains irritant saponins and calcium oxalate that can cause drooling, mouth irritation and GI upset, and the firm leaf tips can prick. |
| compact Queen Victoria agave | Agave victoriae-reginae 'Compacta' | houseplant | Mildly toxic | Agave is not individually listed by the ASPCA, but agaves are documented to contain irritant sap with calcium oxalate crystals and saponins that can cause mouth, lip and tongue irritation, drooling, and stomach upset if chewed; the rigid terminal spine can also injure pets. Treat with caution and verify with a vet if your pet ingests it. |
| octopus agave | Agave vilmoriniana | houseplant | Toxic | Agave is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs; the sap contains saponins and calcium oxalate crystals causing oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and contact dermatitis. Although this species is spineless and physically gentler, the sap remains an irritant, so keep pets from chewing it. |
| woody-spined agave | Agave xylonacantha | houseplant | Toxic | Agave is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs; the sap contains saponins and calcium oxalate crystals causing oral irritation, drooling and gastrointestinal upset, plus contact dermatitis. The large hooked marginal teeth and rigid terminal spine are a significant physical hazard to pets and people. |
| zebra agave | Agave zebra | houseplant | Toxic | Agave is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs; the sap contains saponins and calcium oxalate crystals causing oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and contact dermatitis. The marginal teeth and rigid terminal spine also pose a puncture risk to pets. |
| Agave-leaved Sea Holly | Eryngium agavifolium | flowering | Pet-safe (no ASPCA toxic principle listed) | Eryngium is not listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant database as toxic; the genus is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, though the sharp leaf spines may cause physical injury if a pet chews the foliage. |
| Artist Blue Ageratum | Ageratum houstonianum 'Artist Blue' | flowering | Toxic | Ageratum houstonianum is not on the ASPCA list, but it contains pyrrolizidine-type alkaloids and coumarin compounds and is generally regarded as toxic if ingested. Treat it as toxic to pets and people; ingestion can cause digestive upset and, with chronic exposure, potential liver harm. Verify with a vet if ingestion is suspected. |
| Blue Horizon Ageratum | Ageratum houstonianum 'Blue Horizon' | flowering | Toxic | Ageratum houstonianum is not on the ASPCA list, but it contains pyrrolizidine-type alkaloids and coumarin compounds and is generally regarded as toxic if ingested. Treat it as toxic to pets and people; ingestion can cause digestive upset and, with chronic exposure, potential liver harm. Verify with a vet if ingestion is suspected. |
| Creta Chinese Evergreen | Aglaonema 'Creta' | houseplant | Toxic | Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen) is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing if chewed. Keep away from pets. |
| Emerald Beauty Chinese Evergreen | Aglaonema commutatum 'Emerald Beauty' | houseplant | Toxic | Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen) is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause oral and lip irritation, intense burning of the mouth, drooling, vomiting and trouble swallowing if chewed. Keep away from pets. |
| First Diamond Chinese Evergreen | Aglaonema commutatum 'First Diamond' | houseplant | Toxic | Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen) is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; chewing causes oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets. |
| Lady Valentine Chinese Evergreen | Aglaonema 'Lady Valentine' | houseplant | Toxic | Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen) is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. The insoluble calcium oxalate crystals cause oral irritation, burning of the mouth and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing when chewed. Keep out of reach of pets. |
| Red Aglaonema | Aglaonema 'Siam Aurora' | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses; the toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals found throughout the plant. 'Siam Aurora' is a cultivar of this genus, so treat it as toxic. Chewing causes oral irritation, intense burning and swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep it out of reach of pets and children. |
| Sparkling Sarah Chinese Evergreen | Aglaonema 'Sparkling Sarah' | houseplant | Toxic | Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen) is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. The insoluble calcium oxalate crystals cause oral irritation, burning of the mouth and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing when chewed. Keep this plant out of reach of pets. |
| Chinese evergreen | Aglaonema commutatum | houseplant | Toxic | Toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The ASPCA lists Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) as toxic, with insoluble calcium oxalate crystals as the toxic principle; the same chemistry is present genus-wide, including Aglaonema commutatum. Chewing or swallowing any part releases these crystals, causing oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep well out of reach of pets and children, and wash hands after handling the sap. |
| Anyamanee Aglaonema | Aglaonema 'Anyamanee' | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Aglaonema (Chinese evergreen) as toxic to cats and dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; chewing causes oral irritation, burning of the mouth, lips and tongue, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep this plant away from pets and children. |
| Burmese Evergreen | Aglaonema brevispathum | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists the genus Aglaonema (Chinese evergreen) as toxic to cats and dogs, and this species belongs to that genus. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals causing oral irritation, burning mouth and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep away from pets and children. |
| Chocolate Aglaonema | Aglaonema 'Chocolate' | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Aglaonema (Chinese evergreen) as toxic to cats and dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep away from pets and children. |
| Cutlass Chinese evergreen | Aglaonema commutatum 'Cutlass' | tropical | Toxic | Toxic to cats and dogs per the ASPCA. Aglaonema commutatum (Chinese evergreen) is an aroid containing insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; chewing causes oral burning, excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. |
| Dud Unyamanee Aglaonema | Aglaonema 'Dud Unyamanee' | houseplant | Toxic | Toxic to cats and dogs. Aglaonema is ASPCA-listed as toxic (genus Aglaonema, family Araceae) due to insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing causes oral pain and burning, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep away from pets and children. |
| Emerald Bay Chinese Evergreen | Aglaonema 'Emerald Bay' | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Aglaonema (Chinese evergreen) as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; chewing causes oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth and lips, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets. |
| Firecracker Aglaonema | Aglaonema 'Firecracker' | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Aglaonema (Chinese evergreen) as toxic to cats and dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; chewing causes oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets and children. |
| Gemini Chinese Evergreen | Aglaonema 'Gemini' | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Aglaonema (Chinese evergreen) as toxic to cats and dogs due to insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Ingestion causes oral and mouth irritation, intense burning, drooling, vomiting and trouble swallowing. Keep away from pets and small children. |
| Golden Bay Aglaonema | Aglaonema 'Golden Bay' | houseplant | Toxic | ASPCA classifies Aglaonema (Chinese evergreen) as toxic to cats and dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion causes burning of the mouth and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Position this large plant where pets and children cannot chew the leaves. |
| Harlequin Chinese Evergreen | Aglaonema 'Harlequin' | houseplant | Toxic | ASPCA lists Aglaonema (Chinese evergreen) as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; chewing leaves causes oral burning and irritation, hypersalivation, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets and children. |
| Jubilee Petite Aglaonema | Aglaonema 'Jubilee Petite' | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Aglaonema (Chinese evergreen) as toxic to cats and dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause oral irritation, a burning sensation in the mouth and lips, drooling, vomiting, and trouble swallowing if chewed. Keep this small plant out of pets' reach. |
| Legacy Chinese Evergreen | Aglaonema 'Legacy' | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Aglaonema (Chinese evergreen) as toxic to cats and dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; chewing causes oral irritation, burning of the mouth and tongue, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep this plant out of reach of pets and children. |
| Malay Beauty Chinese Evergreen | Aglaonema 'Malay Beauty' | houseplant | Toxic | Toxic to cats and dogs. Aglaonema is in the ASPCA toxic-plant list (genus Aglaonema, family Araceae) due to insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing causes oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep away from pets and children. |
| Maria Chinese Evergreen | Aglaonema 'Maria' | houseplant | Toxic | ASPCA classifies Aglaonema (Chinese evergreen) as toxic to cats and dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; chewing the leaves causes oral and lip burning, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets and small children. |
| Chinese Evergreen | Aglaonema modestum | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Aglaonema (Chinese evergreen) as toxic to cats and dogs. A. modestum contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; chewing causes oral and lip irritation, a burning sensation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep this plant away from pets. |
| Pewter Aglaonema | Aglaonema nitidum | houseplant | Toxic | Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen) is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing if chewed. Keep away from pets. |
| Osaka Aglaonema | Aglaonema 'Osaka' | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA classifies Aglaonema (Chinese evergreen) as toxic to cats and dogs. Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals cause oral irritation, a burning sensation in the mouth and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets and children. |
| Bicolor Aglaonema | Aglaonema pictum 'Bicolor' | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Aglaonema (Chinese evergreen) as toxic to cats and dogs, and this extends to the genus including A. pictum. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals causing oral burning, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if chewed. Keep away from pets. |
| Camouflage plant | Aglaonema pictum 'Tricolor' | houseplant | Toxic | Toxic to pets. The ASPCA lists the genus (Chinese evergreen, Aglaonema modestum, family Araceae) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses; Aglaonema pictum 'Tricolor' is not individually named but is the same aroid genus. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, causing oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing; the sap can also irritate skin. Keep away from pets and children and verify with a vet if ingested. |
| Pink Beauty Chinese Evergreen | Aglaonema 'Pink Beauty' | houseplant | Toxic | The ASPCA lists Aglaonema (Chinese evergreen) as toxic to cats and dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; chewing causes oral and lip irritation, a burning sensation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep this plant out of reach of pets. |
Showing the first 250 of 11,687 rows. Download the CSV or JSON above for the complete dataset.
Methodology
Toxicity ratings and the per-species detail are taken from species records cross-checked against the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database (the standard US small-animal reference) plus US university extension services. "Pet-safe" means no toxic principle is listed for cats or dogs by the ASPCA — it is not veterinary advice, and any ingestion that causes symptoms warrants a call to a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.
Sources
- ASPCA — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database (aspca.org)
- US Cooperative Extension System plant fact sheets
Last verified 2026-05-15.
License & citation
This dataset is published under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0. You may reuse it commercially or non-commercially with credit. Suggested attribution:
Plant-toxicity reference table compiled by Growli (getgrowli.app), CC-BY 4.0, from the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database and US extension services. Not veterinary advice.
For an academic or journalistic reference, cite this dataset as:
Growli editorial team (2026). Plant toxicity dataset [Data set]. Growli. https://www.getgrowli.app/data/plant-toxicity (CC-BY 4.0).
Version 1.0 · last verified 2026-05-15 · permanent URL https://www.getgrowli.app/data/plant-toxicity
Want this applied to your actual garden?
A table tells you the rule. The Growli app tells you what to do — it knows your plants, your zone, and your local weather, and turns reference data like this into daily watering, frost, and repot reminders.