Dogs
Generally safeConsulted references do not classify the plant as toxic for that pet type, while still allowing for mild GI upset if large amounts are chewed.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
dog safety reference
Is Natal Plum safe for dogs?
Carissa macrocarpa
The Natal Plum is a popular evergreen shrub known for its glossy, dark green foliage and fragrant white flowers. While generally considered safe for pets, it is a woody plant and ingestion of large amounts of fibrous material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Carissa grandifloraCarissa macrocarpaLarge Num-NumNatal Plum
- Light
- Bright direct light
- Habit
- Shrub
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Safe for dogs — the ASPCA lists Natal Plum (under the synonym Carissa grandiflora) as non-toxic to dogs, with no toxic principle and no clinical signs on record.
Sources: ASPCA.
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.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
No specific toxicity symptoms are expected, though chewing or swallowing plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.
Escalation note
This plant is listed by ASPCA as non-toxic for this pet. Monitor for digestive upset after large ingestion and contact a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Natal Plum is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Plants of the World Online (Kew)
botanical · 95% reliability
Accepted botanical name Carissa macrocarpa (Eckl.) A.DC.
Questions about Natal Plum
Is Natal Plum toxic to dogs?
Natal Plum (Carissa macrocarpa) is listed as non-toxic to dogs by the ASPCA. It is not expected to cause poisoning, though as with any plant material, ingesting large amounts may lead to mild stomach upset.
What happens if my dog eats Natal Plum leaves or berries?
No specific toxicity symptoms are expected from Natal Plum ingestion. Chewing or swallowing plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort such as vomiting or loose stools, particularly after large amounts, but serious illness is not anticipated.
What should I do if my dog ate a Natal Plum plant?
Because Natal Plum is non-toxic to dogs, a small nibble is unlikely to require treatment. Monitor your dog for signs of digestive upset such as vomiting or lethargy, and contact your veterinarian if symptoms develop or persist after a large ingestion.
How much Natal Plum would make a dog sick?
No toxic dose has been established because Natal Plum is classified as non-toxic for dogs. That said, non-toxic does not mean harmless in unlimited quantities — eating a large amount of any fibrous plant material can cause temporary GI upset, so it is best to discourage chewing on the shrub.
Same dog verdict
Related plants for dogs
Autumn Olive
Elaeagnus umbellata
Autumn Olive is a hardy, deciduous shrub known for its silvery foliage and edible berries. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though large ingestions of fibrous plant material may occasionally cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Bottlebrush
Callistemon citrinus
Bottlebrush is a popular evergreen shrub known for its unique, spike-like flowers that resemble a cleaning brush. It is generally considered safe for pets, though its fibrous nature may cause mild digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Camellia
Camellia japonica
Camellia is a popular evergreen shrub known for its glossy, dark green leaves and showy, rose-like flowers. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Creosote Bush
Larrea tridentata
The Creosote Bush is a hardy, drought-tolerant shrub native to the deserts of North America, known for its distinct resinous scent after rainfall. It is generally considered safe for pets, though its fibrous nature may cause mild digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.