Is Veronicastrum virginicum toxic to dogs?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists veronicastrum virginicum as mildly toxic to dogs — a chewing dog typically gets mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a medical emergency, but it is still best kept out of reach. Veronicastrum virginicum is not individually listed by the ASPCA, so its pet status is unconfirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. The root is a documented emetic and cathartic in herbal use and can cause vomiting and diarrhoea if eaten, so keep pets and children from ingesting any part.

Veronicastrum virginicum is not individually listed by the ASPCA, so its pet status is unconfirmed; treat with caution and verify with a vet. The root is a documented emetic and cathartic in herbal use and can cause vomiting and diarrhoea if eaten, so keep pets and children from ingesting any part. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your dog has had access to veronicastrum virginicum.

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your dog's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Veronicastrum virginicum is mildly toxic to cats as well. See the full veronicastrum virginicum pet-safety guide for both species.

For a similar look without the risk, see the best dogs-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.