PlantLegitIs Schefflera (umbrella tree) safe for cats, dogs and kids?
Schefflera
No. It is toxic to dogs and cats.
- DogsToxic: risk named by NC State, and ASPCA agrees
- CatsToxic per ASPCA (NC State lists the plant without naming cats)
- KidsNot on NC Poison Control's list (not a safety rating)
Sources (4)
- NC State, Plants Poisonous to Livestock and Pets: Hedera helix – herbarium.ncsu.edu
- Cite as: Hardin, J.W., C.F. Brownie, and A. Krings. 2018-present. Plants poisonous to livestock and pets in North Carolina, 2.0. North Carolina State University, Raleigh. http://herbarium.ncsu.edu/poisonous/ (accessed 2026-10-24)
- See also: ASPCA entry for Schefflera
- Poison Help line 1-800-222-1222 – HRSA – U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration
Think someone ate part of a plant?
- Child or adult: call Poison Help 1-800-222-1222 (free, confidential, 24/7; HRSA Poison Help).
- Dog or cat: call your veterinarian, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435 (24/7; a fee may apply; ASPCA).
- Trouble breathing, seizures or collapse: call 911.
Details
NC State: NC State (under English ivy, related plants) says schefflera contains oxalates and can be dangerous to dogs that eat some quantity. NC State entry
ASPCA cross-check: ASPCA lists it (Schefflera) as toxic to dogs and toxic to cats. See ASPCA
Kids: not on NC Poison Control's list of poisonous plants. That list is not complete. Young children should not eat any houseplant.
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Related
We summarize published sources in our own words. Not medical or veterinary advice. Checked 2026-10-24.