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
Flame of the Woods
Ixora coccinea
Flame of the Woods is a popular tropical shrub known for its vibrant, dense clusters of star-shaped flowers. It is considered safe for households with pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Flame of the WoodsIxoraIxora coccineaJungle Geranium
- Light
- Bright indirect light to full sun
- Habit
- Shrub
- 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 expected; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
Generally considered non-toxic. If your cat consumes a significant amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
None expected; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
Generally considered non-toxic. If your dog consumes a significant amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Flame of the Woodsis 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 Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Flame of the Woods is listed as non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Ixora coccinea is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that thrives in tropical climates and is widely used as an ornamental.
Questions about Flame of the Woods
Is Flame of the Woods toxic to cats?
Flame of the Woods (Ixora coccinea) is considered non-toxic to cats. It is generally safe for households where cats may come into contact with the plant.
What happens if my cat eats Flame of the Woods?
Ingesting small amounts is unlikely to cause any harm. If your cat eats a large quantity of the fibrous plant material, mild vomiting or diarrhea is possible due to the bulk of plant matter, not any toxic compound.
What should I do if my cat chews on Flame of the Woods?
If your cat nibbles a small amount, no treatment is needed — monitor for any GI upset like vomiting or diarrhea. If your cat consumes a significant amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Can the fibrous stems of Ixora coccinea cause problems for cats?
The fibrous nature of Ixora coccinea is the main concern with large ingestions — it can irritate the digestive tract and cause mild vomiting or diarrhea. Non-toxic does not mean safe to eat in quantity, so it is still best to discourage your cat from grazing on the plant.
Is Flame of the Woods toxic to dogs?
Flame of the Woods (Ixora coccinea) is considered non-toxic to dogs. It is generally safe for households with canine pets, though this does not mean dogs should eat it freely.
What happens if my dog eats Flame of the Woods?
No toxic symptoms are expected, but ingesting large amounts of the plant's fibrous material may cause mild vomiting or diarrhea. Small nibbles are unlikely to cause any reaction.
How much Flame of the Woods would make a dog sick?
The plant itself is not toxic, so true poisoning is not a concern. Digestive upset — loose stool or vomiting — is most likely only if your dog consumes a significant quantity of the fibrous stems or leaves.
What should I do if my dog ate a large amount of Ixora?
Monitor your dog for signs of GI upset such as vomiting or diarrhea. If symptoms develop or your dog seems distressed after eating a substantial amount, contact your veterinarian for guidance.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
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.