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.
Questions about Lemon Verbena
Is lemon verbena toxic to cats?
Yes, lemon verbena (Aloysia triphylla) is considered potentially toxic to cats. The plant's essential oils can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested, including vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. Skin irritation is also possible from direct contact with the foliage.
What are the symptoms if a cat eats lemon verbena?
The most likely signs are stomach upset — vomiting, drooling, and loss of appetite — along with colicky discomfort that may show as restlessness, hunching, or hiding. GI symptoms typically begin within a few hours of ingestion. Reactions are usually mild, but repeated vomiting can lead to dehydration quickly.
What should I do if my cat ate lemon verbena?
Remove your cat's access to the plant and monitor closely. Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or your veterinarian if vomiting or diarrhea continues past 12 hours, your cat refuses food at the next meal, or you notice lethargy or signs of dehydration. Kittens, senior cats, or cats with existing health conditions warrant a call sooner.
How long do lemon verbena symptoms last in cats?
Exact onset and duration aren't well documented for lemon verbena specifically, but essential-oil-related GI upset in cats typically begins within a few hours of ingestion and tends to resolve once the plant is removed from the cat's environment. If symptoms persist beyond 12 hours, contact your vet.
Is lemon verbena toxic to dogs?
Yes, lemon verbena is considered potentially toxic to dogs. The plant's essential oils can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and skin irritation if your dog ingests or contacts it.
What symptoms will my dog show after eating lemon verbena?
Signs to watch for include vomiting, soft stool, drooling, abdominal discomfort or restlessness, and reduced appetite. Some dogs may also develop mild skin irritation where crushed leaves have brushed bare skin.
What should I do if my dog ate lemon verbena?
Monitor your dog closely for GI signs, which typically begin within a few hours of ingestion and usually resolve within about a day. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 if vomiting or diarrhea continues for more than a few hours, your dog seems painful in the belly or unusually lethargic, or appetite hasn't returned by the next meal.
Can lemon verbena cause skin irritation in dogs?
Yes, beyond GI upset from ingestion, the essential oils in lemon verbena can cause dermatitis or mild skin irritation on areas where crushed leaves have contacted bare skin. The severity is generally considered mild, but monitor any affected skin for worsening redness or inflammation.
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