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.
dog safety reference
Is Autograph Tree safe for dogs?
Clusia major
Clusia major is a tropical evergreen shrub known for its thick, leathery leaves and unique ability to grow as an epiphyte. It is commonly kept as a houseplant for its architectural foliage, but it contains compounds that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Autograph TreeBalsam AppleClusia majorClusia roseaPitch Apple
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Upright shrub
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Dogs that chew Autograph Tree get a dose of terpenes — the resinous oils in clusia sap. ASPCA lists it as toxic to dogs, but most dogs only show digestive upset; the fruit is the most concentrated part, and large fruit ingestions are the cases that escalate beyond a stomach ache.
What to watch for
Expect drooling and vomiting first, then loss of appetite and possibly diarrhea. A dog that ate the fruit can show more prolonged GI signs, and unusually large ingestions raise the risk of lethargy or wobbliness as terpenes can affect the nervous system at higher doses.
Time window
Exact timing is not well documented; mild GI signs typically appear within a few hours and resolve within 24 hours with supportive care.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 if vomiting doesn't settle after one episode, appetite stays off through a meal, or you know fruit was eaten. Lethargy, tremor, or unusual behavior is a same-day visit.
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.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and excessive salivation.
Escalation note
While generally considered mild to moderate in toxicity, ingestion should be monitored closely. Contact your veterinarian for professional guidance if ingestion occurs.
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
Same dog verdict
Related plants for dogs
Common Privet
Ligustrum vulgare
Common Privet is a semi-evergreen shrub often used for hedging that contains toxic compounds throughout the plant, particularly in the berries and leaves. Ingestion can lead to significant gastrointestinal distress in household pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Corn Plant
Dracaena fragrans
The Corn Plant is a popular indoor shrub known for its long, arching, sword-like leaves that resemble corn stalks. While aesthetically pleasing, it contains saponins that can cause adverse reactions if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Geranium Aralia
Polyscias guilfoylei
Polyscias guilfoylei is a tropical evergreen shrub often grown as an ornamental houseplant for its attractive, lacy foliage. It contains compounds that can cause irritation if ingested by household pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Hawaiian Ti
Cordyline fruticosa
The Hawaiian Ti is a popular tropical ornamental known for its vibrant, lance-shaped foliage. It contains saponins which can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.