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
Clearweed
Pilea pumila
Clearweed is a tender, herbaceous annual plant often found in moist, shaded environments. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Canadian ClearweedClearweedPilea pumila
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Habit
- Herbaceous annual
- 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
None expected. In rare cases of large ingestion, mild vomiting or diarrhea may occur due to the fibrous nature of the plant.
Escalation note
Generally considered safe. If your cat consumes a large amount and shows persistent signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
None expected. In rare cases of large ingestion, mild vomiting or diarrhea may occur due to the fibrous nature of the plant.
Escalation note
Generally considered safe. If your dog consumes a large amount and shows persistent signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Clearweedis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.
Shop on AmazonSome links earn us a small commission. They never affect our safety classifications.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Clearweed is listed as non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Pilea pumila is a native herbaceous plant that thrives in moist, shaded woodland habitats.
Questions about Clearweed
Is clearweed toxic to cats?
No, clearweed (Pilea pumila) is considered non-toxic to cats. It is classified as generally safe, meaning it is not expected to cause poisoning or serious harm if your cat chews on or eats it.
What happens if a cat eats clearweed?
Most cats will have no reaction at all. In rare cases where a cat consumes a large amount, the fibrous plant material may cause mild vomiting or diarrhea, but serious symptoms are not expected.
Should I call the vet if my cat ate clearweed?
A small nibble does not require a vet call. If your cat ate a large quantity and is showing persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of distress that do not resolve quickly, contact your veterinarian.
Does non-toxic mean clearweed is safe for cats to eat in any amount?
Non-toxic means clearweed is not poisonous to cats, but that does not make it a safe snack in large quantities. Eating significant amounts of any plant can cause GI upset in cats due to the fibrous material, so it is best to discourage the habit.
Is clearweed toxic to dogs?
No, clearweed (Pilea pumila) is considered non-toxic to dogs. It is classified as generally safe, meaning ingestion is not expected to cause harmful effects.
What happens if my dog eats clearweed?
Most dogs will experience no symptoms at all. In rare cases where a dog eats a large amount, the fibrous plant material may cause mild, temporary vomiting or diarrhea.
Should I call my vet if my dog ate a lot of clearweed?
A small nibble is not a cause for concern, but if your dog consumed a large quantity and shows persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Is clearweed the same as other Pilea species, and are those safe for dogs too?
Clearweed (Pilea pumila) is one of several plants in the Pilea genus. While clearweed itself is non-toxic to dogs, toxicity can vary across species within a genus, so if you are unsure which Pilea variety your dog has eaten, check with your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
Same genus
More from the Pilea genus
Friendship Plant
Pilea involucrata
The Friendship Plant is a popular, low-maintenance houseplant known for its textured, deeply veined leaves and trailing growth habit. It is considered safe for households with pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Not yet rated for cats.
Generally safe for dogs.
Aluminum Plant
Pilea cadierei
The Aluminum Plant is a popular indoor foliage plant known for its striking silver-patterned leaves and compact growth habit. It is considered safe for households with pets, though large ingestions of plant material may occasionally cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
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.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Chervil
Anthriscus cerefolium
Chervil is a delicate, aromatic herb in the parsley family often used in culinary applications. It is considered safe for pets, though large ingestions of any fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Cosmos
Cosmos bipinnatus
Garden cosmos is a daisy-like annual usually treated as a pet-safe flowering option, though any large plant ingestion can still cause mild stomach upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Calathea
Calathea spp.
Calathea are popular tropical houseplants known for their striking, patterned foliage and rhythmic leaf movement. They are considered safe for households with pets, though ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Dwarf Date Palm
Phoenix acaulis
The Dwarf Date Palm is a slow-growing, stemless palm species native to the grasslands of India. It is widely appreciated for its compact, architectural foliage that mimics the appearance of larger date palms in a miniature form.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.