Jerusalem Cherry — (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

Jerusalem Cherry

Solanum pseudocapsicum

Jerusalem Cherry is an ornamental shrub known for its bright, berry-like fruits that contain toxic solanine alkaloids. Due to the presence of these compounds, all parts of the plant are considered harmful if ingested by pets.

Jerusalem CherryMadeira Winter CherrySolanum pseudocapsicumWinter Cherry
Light
Bright indirect light
Habit
Upright shrub
Care
Moderate

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

Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, excessive salivation, and in severe cases, central nervous system depression or seizures.

Escalation note

Ingestion of the berries or foliage can lead to significant gastrointestinal distress. Please contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately if ingestion is suspected.

Dogsconcern notes

Common signs

Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, and potential neurological signs such as tremors or weakness.

Escalation note

The solanine content poses a risk of poisoning that requires professional medical evaluation. Seek veterinary care promptly if your dog has consumed 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

Open source

Jerusalem Cherry contains solanine, which is toxic to both cats and dogs.

NC State Extension Plant Toolbox

botanical · 94% reliability

Open source

Solanum pseudocapsicum is a poisonous plant that produces orange-red berries that are toxic if ingested.

cats safety pageMy cat ate Jerusalem Cherrydogs safety pageMy dog ate Jerusalem Cherry

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Same safety verdict

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