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.
Pet safety reference
Bloodleaf
Iresine herbstii
Bloodleaf is a vibrant ornamental plant known for its striking deep red or purple foliage. While it is considered non-toxic, ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause mild digestive discomfort.
Beefsteak PlantBloodleafChicken GizzardIresine herbstii
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Upright, bushy
- Care
- Moderate
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
None typically expected; however, consumption of large quantities may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea due to the fibrous nature of the leaves.
Escalation note
This plant is considered non-toxic. If your cat consumes a significant amount and shows persistent signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
None typically expected; however, consumption of large quantities may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea due to the fibrous nature of the leaves.
Escalation note
This plant is considered non-toxic. If your dog consumes a significant amount and shows persistent signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Bloodleafis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Bloodleaf is listed as non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Iresine herbstii
botanical · 94% reliability
A tender perennial often grown as an annual for its colorful foliage, thriving in bright light.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Aluminum Plant
Pilea cadierei
The Aluminum Plant is a popular indoor foliage plant known for its striking silver-patterned leaves and compact growth habit. It is considered safe for households with pets, though large ingestions of plant material may occasionally cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Baby Rubber Plant
Peperomia obtusifolia
The American Rubber Plant is a popular, low-maintenance houseplant known for its thick, succulent-like leaves. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Pot Marigold
Calendula officinalis
Pot Marigold is a popular flowering annual known for its bright, daisy-like blooms and culinary uses. It is considered safe for pets, though large ingestions of plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
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.
Same growing conditions
Plants for the same room
Daisy (Chrysanthemum)
Chrysanthemum species
Chrysanthemums are popular flowering plants known for their vibrant blooms, but they contain natural compounds that can cause adverse reactions if ingested by pets. It is recommended to keep these plants out of reach of curious animals.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Easter Lily
Lilium longiflorum
The Easter Lily is a bulbous perennial known for its large, fragrant, trumpet-shaped white flowers. It is highly significant in veterinary medicine due to its extreme toxicity to cats.
Potentially toxic for cats.
Uncertain for dogs.
Peruvian Lily
Alstroemeria aurea
Peruvian Lily is a popular flowering plant known for its vibrant, orchid-like blooms and long-lasting cut flowers. While generally considered safe for pets, it is not a food source and may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.