Desert Rose — (c) Morten Ross, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Morten Ross
Photo by (c) Morten Ross, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Morten RossiNaturalistCC BY
Pet safety reference

Desert Rose

Adenium obesum

Adenium obesum is a succulent shrub known for its swollen base and vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers. It contains cardiac glycosides that are harmful if ingested by pets.

Adenium obesumDesert AzaleaImpala LilyMock AzaleaSabi Star
Light
Bright direct light
Habit
Succulent shrub
Care
Low

Safety status

Cats & Dogs

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.

If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.

Catsconcern notes

Common signs

Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, drooling, and potential cardiac arrhythmias.

Escalation note

Ingestion can lead to serious systemic effects due to cardiac glycosides. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your cat has chewed or eaten any part of this plant.

Dogsconcern notes

Common signs

Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, depression, and irregular heartbeat.

Escalation note

The plant contains toxins that affect the heart. Seek veterinary attention promptly if ingestion is observed or suspected.

Safer alternatives

No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.

Source evidence

ASPCA Toxic Plant List

toxicology · 99% reliability

Open source

Desert Rose contains cardiac glycosides which are toxic to both cats and dogs.

Kew Plants of the World Online

botanical · 95% reliability

Open source

Accepted scientific name and distribution data for Adenium obesum.

cats safety pageMy cat ate Desert Rosedogs safety pageMy dog ate Desert Rose

Same safety verdict

Other plants with the same verdict

Same growing conditions

Plants for the same room