KNOW YOUR PLANTS - California Poison Control System

shiny green leaves is not enough information to know what the plant is. If you do not
know the name of the plant, take the plant or a part of the plant with leaves, berries or
flowers to a reputable plant nursery for a positive identification. Try to get the common
name and the Latin scientific name. Then call the California Poison Control System at
1-800-222-1222 for more help.
This is a guide to safe plants but it should not be used as a substitute for calling the
poison center if a person or an animal has eaten a plant. The California Poison Control
System is available 24 hours a day by calling 1-800-222-1222. If you are not in
California, call 1-800-222-1222 to be connected to your nearest poison control center.
WHAT TO DO FOR A PLANT POISONING
• Do NOT induce vomiting.
• Remove any plant parts from the mouth or hands.
• Wash around the mouth and hands and give a few sips of water.
• Check for any irritation of the skin, mouth or tongue.
• Call the California Poison Control System at 1-800-222-1222
• Even if you are not sure, call the poison center for help. It will not be as waste of
time.
• Do not wait for symptoms to appear. Treatment will be more difficult once
symptoms have developed.
• If you are advised to go to the hospital, take the plant or part of the plant with you.
NON-TOXIC PLANTS
The plants in this list are considered to be safe to humans. This list is in two parts. The
first list is alphabetical by common name and the second list is alphabetical by Latin or
scientific name.
Keep in mind that even non-toxic plants can cause vomiting in humans and animals. Also
children can choke on a plant piece and have gagging or choking.
Some plants that are not a problem to humans can be a problem for animals. The plant
names that are listed in bold typeface are known to be dangerous to animals (dogs and
cats). Because dogs, especially, will eat large amounts, it is important to keep pets and
these plants apart.
Table 1. – Nontoxic Plants by Common Name
A
Common name
Latin or scientific name
Abelia Abelia spp
Abutilon hemp Abutilon theophrasti
Acacia Albizia julibrisson
Acanthus Acanthus spp