Cats & Dogs
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
Pet safety reference
Lemon Verbena
Aloysia triphylla
Lemon Verbena is a fragrant, woody shrub often grown for its citrus-scented foliage used in culinary and herbal applications. While popular in gardens, it contains essential oils that can cause adverse reactions if ingested by pets.
Aloysia citrodoraAloysia triphyllaLemon BeebrushLemon Verbena
- Light
- Full sun
- Habit
- Shrub
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
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.
Cats — concern notes
Common signs
Gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting, diarrhea, and potential skin irritation upon contact.
Escalation note
Ingestion may cause discomfort; please contact your veterinarian if your cat shows signs of distress or persistent vomiting.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, and potential dermatitis or skin irritation from contact with the plant's essential oils.
Escalation note
While generally considered mild, ingestion should be monitored and a veterinarian consulted if symptoms persist or worsen.
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
Lemon Verbena is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs due to its essential oils.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Aloysia triphylla is a deciduous shrub known for its fragrant leaves and white flowers.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Azalea
Rhododendron spp
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Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Barbados Pride
Poinciana gilliesii
Barbados Pride is a flowering shrub known for its striking yellow flowers and long red stamens. It contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Boxwood
Buxus spp.
Boxwood is a popular evergreen shrub often used for hedging and topiary, containing steroidal alkaloids that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested. It is considered toxic to both cats and dogs.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Castor Bean
Ricinus communis
The African Wonder Tree is a fast-growing ornamental shrub known for its large, palm-like leaves and unique seed pods. It contains ricin, a highly potent toxin found throughout the plant, with the highest concentration in the seeds.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Same growing conditions
