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
Cardinal Flower
Lobelia cardinalis
Lobelia cardinalis is a striking perennial known for its vibrant red, tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds. It contains alkaloids that can cause adverse reactions if ingested by pets.
Cardinal FlowerIndian PinkLobelia cardinalis
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Upright, clumping perennial
- 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
Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, and in severe cases, tremors or rapid breathing.
Escalation note
Ingestion can cause significant gastrointestinal distress. Please contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately if you suspect your cat has ingested any part of this plant.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, abdominal pain, and potential neurological signs like weakness or incoordination.
Escalation note
The plant contains lobeline and other alkaloids that are irritating to the digestive tract. Seek veterinary care if your dog shows signs of illness after exposure.
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
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Cardinal flower is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs due to the presence of pyridine alkaloids.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Lobelia cardinalis is a native perennial that thrives in moist soils and is known for its high toxicity if ingested.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Monstera
Monstera deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa is a popular tropical houseplant known for its large, fenestrated leaves and vining growth habit. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Snake Plant
Dracaena trifasciata
Dracaena trifasciata is a popular, hardy houseplant known for its stiff, sword-like leaves with striking yellow margins. It is widely appreciated for its air-purifying qualities and ability to thrive in various indoor conditions.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Philodendron
Philodendron spp.
Philodendrons are popular tropical foliage plants known for their lush, heart-shaped or split leaves. They contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Peace Lily
Spathiphyllum
The Mauna Loa Peace Lily is a popular indoor plant known for its elegant white spathes and lush foliage. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation upon contact or ingestion.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Same growing conditions
Plants for the same room
Butterfly Iris
Iris spuria
The Butterfly Iris is a rhizomatous perennial known for its elegant, orchid-like flowers and tall, grass-like foliage. It is commonly grown in garden borders but contains compounds that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Scarlet Sage
Salvia coccinea
Scarlet Sage is a popular, vibrant flowering plant often grown in gardens for its spikes of tubular red 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.
Slender Deutzia
Deutzia gracilis
Slender Deutzia is a deciduous flowering shrub known for its delicate, bell-shaped white flowers that bloom in late spring. It is generally considered safe for household pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Tiger Lily
Lilium tigrinum
The Tiger Lily is a bulbous perennial known for its striking orange, spotted flowers. It is highly dangerous to cats, as all parts of the plant can cause severe health complications.
Potentially toxic for cats.
Uncertain for dogs.