Artillery Plant — (c) Alexander Klink, some rights reserved (CC BY)
Photo by (c) Alexander Klink, some rights reserved (CC BY)iNaturalistCC BY
Pet safety reference

Artillery Plant

Pilea microphylla

The Artillery Plant is a small, fern-like succulent known for its tiny leaves and unique habit of releasing pollen in small puffs. It is generally considered safe for households with pets.

Artillery PlantGunpowder PlantPilea microphylla
Light
Bright indirect light
Habit
Spreading or mounding
Care
Low to moderate

Safety status

Cats & Dogs

Generally safe

Consulted 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.

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.

Catsconcern notes

Common signs

None expected from normal interaction; however, large ingestions of fibrous plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea.

Escalation note

This plant is non-toxic. If your cat consumes a large amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian as a precaution.

Dogsconcern notes

Common signs

None expected from normal interaction; however, large ingestions of fibrous plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea.

Escalation note

This plant is non-toxic. If your dog consumes a large amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian as a precaution.

Bring it home

Artillery Plantis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.

Shop on Amazon

Some links earn us a small commission. They never affect our safety classifications.

Source evidence

ASPCA Toxic Plant List

toxicology · 99% reliability

Open source

The Artillery Plant is listed as non-toxic to both cats and dogs.

NC State Extension Plant Toolbox

botanical · 94% reliability

Open source

Pilea microphylla is a small, succulent-like plant often used as a houseplant or groundcover in warm climates.

cats safety pagedogs safety page

Often compared with

Same genus

More from the Pilea genus

Same safety verdict

Other plants with the same verdict

Same growing conditions

Plants for the same room