Bishop's Weed — (c) Eleftherios Katsillis, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Eleftherios Katsillis
Photo by (c) Eleftherios Katsillis, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Eleftherios KatsillisiNaturalistCC BY
dog safety reference

Is Bishop's Weed safe for dogs?

Ammi majus

Bishop's Weed is an annual herb often grown for its delicate, lace-like white flower clusters. It contains furanocoumarins which can cause skin irritation and systemic issues if ingested.

Ammi majusBishop's WeedFalse Queen Anne's LaceGreater Ammi
Light
Full sun
Habit
Upright, branching
Care
Low

Safety status

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.

What this means for your dog

Dogs — toxic. ASPCA lists Ammi majus as toxic to dogs and flags two distinct problems: oral irritation from chewing the plant, and photosensitization (sun-triggered skin damage) after ingesting the seeds or sap. Outdoor dogs that brush against or nibble the plant and then sun themselves are the highest-risk profile.

What to watch for

Inside the mouth, expect intense burning sensation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing shortly after chewing. Within the next 24–72 hours of sun exposure, watch for redness, swelling, blistering, or scabbing on lightly haired skin — muzzle, ear tips, belly, and around the eyes. Some dogs squint or avoid bright light because of conjunctival irritation.

Time window

Oral signs appear within minutes of chewing. Photosensitization lesions typically develop 1–3 days after ingestion once the dog is in sunlight; resolution can take days to weeks depending on dose and sun exposure. Exact recovery timing is not well documented in the ASPCA listing.

When to call the vet

Call your vet right away if your dog has chewed the plant and is drooling heavily, vomiting repeatedly, or refusing food, or if you see any new skin lesions, blistering, or eye irritation in the days following exposure. ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435. Until you reach a vet, keep the dog out of direct sunlight.

Sources: ASPCA (no first-aid guidance).

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.

Dogsconcern notes

Common signs

Skin irritation, blistering upon sun exposure, vomiting, and lethargy.

Escalation note

The plant contains compounds that increase sensitivity to sunlight and may cause internal distress. Seek veterinary care if your dog shows signs of discomfort or skin lesions.

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

Cats & dogs pagecats pageMy dog ate Bishop's Weed

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