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
Gardenia
Gardenia jasminoides
Gardenia jasminoides is a popular flowering shrub known for its highly fragrant white blooms and glossy, dark green foliage. While prized for its beauty, it contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Cape JasmineCommon GardeniaGardeniaGardenia jasminoides
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Shrub
- Care
- High
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
Vomiting, diarrhea, and hypersalivation.
Escalation note
Ingestion typically results in mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset. Please contact your veterinarian if your cat shows signs of distress.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, and hives or skin irritation.
Escalation note
Symptoms are generally mild, but ingestion of large quantities may cause more significant digestive issues. Consult a veterinarian if you suspect ingestion.
Safer alternatives
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Gardenia contains geniposide and gardenoside, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub that thrives in acidic soil and is widely cultivated for its fragrant flowers.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Azalea
Rhododendron spp
Azaleas are flowering shrubs in the Rhododendron genus that contain grayanotoxins, which can cause significant illness if ingested by pets. These plants are highly toxic and require immediate veterinary attention if consumption is suspected.
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
