Purslane — (c) Douglas Goldman, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Douglas Goldman
Photo by (c) Douglas Goldman, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Douglas GoldmaniNaturalistCC BY-SA
Pet safety reference

Purslane

Portulaca oleracea

Moss Rose is a succulent, low-growing annual known for its vibrant, rose-like flowers and fleshy leaves. While popular in gardens, it contains soluble calcium oxalates that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.

Moss RosePigweedPortulacaPortulaca oleraceaPurslane
Light
Full sun
Habit
Trailing or spreading
Care
Low

Safety status

Cats & 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.

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

Oral irritation, excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, and potential vomiting.

Escalation note

Ingestion typically causes mild to moderate irritation due to calcium oxalate crystals. Always contact your veterinarian if you suspect your cat has ingested this plant.

Dogsconcern notes

Common signs

Drooling, pawing at the mouth, oral swelling, and occasional gastrointestinal upset.

Escalation note

The plant contains soluble oxalates which can cause irritation upon contact with the mouth and throat. Consult a veterinarian if symptoms persist or if your dog consumes a large quantity.

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

Open source

Moss Rose is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs due to the presence of soluble calcium oxalates.

NC State Extension Plant Toolbox

botanical · 94% reliability

Open source

Portulaca oleracea is a succulent annual that is widely distributed and often considered a weed, though cultivated for its ornamental flowers.

cats safety pageMy cat ate Purslanedogs safety pageMy dog ate Purslane

Same safety verdict

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