Tree Tobacco — (c) Scott Zona, some rights reserved (CC BY)
Photo by (c) Scott Zona, some rights reserved (CC BY)iNaturalistCC BY
dog safety reference

Is Tree Tobacco safe for dogs?

Nicotiana glauca

Nicotiana glauca is a fast-growing shrub known for its glaucous, blue-green foliage and tubular yellow flowers. It contains pyridine alkaloids, specifically anabasine, which are highly toxic to animals if ingested.

Mustard TreeNicotianaNicotiana glaucaTree Tobacco
Light
Full sun
Habit
Shrub or small tree
Care
Low

Safety status

Dogs

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.

What this means for your dog

Tree tobacco is severely toxic to dogs — every part of the plant contains nicotine and anabasine, alkaloids that act on the nervous system and can rapidly become life-threatening. This is not a 'wait and see' plant exposure.

What to watch for

Expect drooling and vomiting first, often with a brief excitable phase (restlessness, fast breathing) that quickly gives way to depression, weakness, and stumbling. Severe ingestions progress to tremors, seizures, paralysis, and respiratory failure.

Time window

Exact onset is not documented in the cited entries. Nicotine-driven plant toxicity is generally rapid in onset, which is why immediate veterinary contact matters more than waiting to see what develops.

When to call the vet

Call immediately and head to the closest emergency vet. Even if your dog seems fine right after exposure, the course can change quickly. ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435.

Sources: ASPCA, NC State Extension (no first-aid guidance).

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.

Dogsconcern notes

Common signs

Excessive salivation, vomiting, gastrointestinal distress, lethargy, muscle twitching, and potential respiratory difficulties.

Escalation note

The plant contains potent alkaloids that affect the nervous system. Seek immediate veterinary care if ingestion is observed or suspected.

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

NC State Extension Plant Toolbox

botanical · 94% reliability

Open source

Nicotiana glauca is a poisonous plant containing anabasine, which is toxic to livestock and pets.

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