Cats & 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.
Sources
Pet safety reference
Rose of Sharon
Hibiscus syriacus
Rose of Sharon is a popular flowering shrub known for its large, showy blooms and hardy nature. While generally considered non-toxic, it is always best to prevent pets from consuming large amounts of plant material.
HibiscusHibiscus syriacusRose of AltheaShrub Althea
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Upright shrub
- Care
- Low
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
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.
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 Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Hibiscus syriacus is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Hibiscus syriacus is a deciduous shrub in the Malvaceae family, commonly known as Rose of Sharon.
Questions about Rose of Sharon
Is Rose of Sharon toxic to cats?
Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus) is listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA. It is not expected to cause poisoning, though non-toxic does not mean harmless in large quantities.
What happens if my cat eats Rose of Sharon?
No specific toxicity symptoms are expected, but chewing or swallowing plant material may cause mild stomach upset. Monitor your cat for vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, and contact your veterinarian if symptoms persist.
How much Rose of Sharon is dangerous for a cat to eat?
Rose of Sharon is not considered toxic to cats, so there is no known dangerous dose. That said, large ingestions of any plant material can cause digestive upset, so it is best to discourage chewing on the shrub.
Should I call a vet if my cat chewed on a Rose of Sharon bush?
A brief nibble is unlikely to require emergency care given the plant's non-toxic status, but watch for ongoing vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite. If symptoms persist or your cat ate a large amount, call your veterinarian for guidance.
Is Rose of Sharon toxic to dogs?
Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus) is listed as non-toxic to dogs by the ASPCA. It is not expected to cause serious harm, though that does not mean it is beneficial for dogs to eat.
What happens if my dog eats Rose of Sharon?
No specific toxicity symptoms are expected, but chewing or swallowing plant material may still cause mild stomach upset. Monitor your dog for vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy after ingestion, especially if a large amount was eaten.
Should I call the vet if my dog ate Rose of Sharon?
A small nibble is unlikely to require an emergency call, but if your dog ate a large quantity or symptoms like vomiting or digestive upset persist, contact your veterinarian. You can also reach the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 for guidance.
How much Rose of Sharon would make a dog sick?
There is no established toxic dose because the plant is non-toxic to dogs. However, large ingestions of any plant material can cause GI upset regardless of toxicity — if your dog consumed a significant amount and shows persistent symptoms, have a vet evaluate them.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Crossandra
Crossandra infundibuliformis
Crossandra is a vibrant, tropical flowering plant known for its bright orange, fan-shaped blooms and glossy foliage. It is considered safe for households with pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Fatsia
Fatsia japonica
Fatsia is a popular, shade-loving evergreen shrub known for its large, glossy, palm-like leaves. It is generally considered safe for households with pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive upset if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Cosmos
Cosmos bipinnatus
Garden cosmos is a daisy-like annual usually treated as a pet-safe flowering option, though any large plant ingestion can still cause mild stomach upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Calathea
Calathea spp.
Calathea are popular tropical houseplants known for their striking, patterned foliage and rhythmic leaf movement. They are considered safe for households with pets, though ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.