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
Heavenly Bamboo
Nandina domestica
Nandina domestica is an evergreen shrub often grown for its attractive foliage and bright red berries. Despite its common name, it is not a true bamboo and contains cyanogenic glycosides that are harmful if ingested.
Heavenly BambooNandinaNandina domesticaSacred Bamboo
- 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
Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and potential respiratory distress.
Escalation note
Ingestion of the berries or leaves can lead to cyanide poisoning. Please contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing or seizures.
Escalation note
The plant contains cyanogenic glycosides which release hydrogen cyanide upon digestion. Seek veterinary attention immediately if your dog consumes any part of this plant.
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
Nandina domestica contains cyanogenic glycosides and is toxic to cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Nandina domestica is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that is considered toxic to pets due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Autograph Tree
Clusia major
Clusia major is a tropical evergreen shrub known for its thick, leathery leaves and unique ability to grow as an epiphyte. It is commonly kept as a houseplant for its architectural foliage, but it contains compounds that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Common Privet
Ligustrum vulgare
Common Privet is a semi-evergreen shrub often used for hedging that contains toxic compounds throughout the plant, particularly in the berries and leaves. Ingestion can lead to significant gastrointestinal distress in household pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Corn Plant
Dracaena fragrans
The Corn Plant is a popular indoor shrub known for its long, arching, sword-like leaves that resemble corn stalks. While aesthetically pleasing, it contains saponins that can cause adverse reactions if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Geranium Aralia
Polyscias guilfoylei
Polyscias guilfoylei is a tropical evergreen shrub often grown as an ornamental houseplant for its attractive, lacy foliage. It contains compounds that can cause irritation if ingested by household pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.