PlantLegitIs Northern blue flag toxic to dogs, cats or kids?
- DogsToxic (ASPCA)
- CatsToxic (ASPCA)
- People & kidsLow poison severity (NC State Extension)
Sources (6)
- ASPCA plant entry: Flag (Iris species) – American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
- Plants toxic and non-toxic to dogs – ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- Plants toxic and non-toxic to cats – ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- Iris versicolor plant profile, poison fields – NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
- Poison Help line 1-800-222-1222 – U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA)
- Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435 – ASPCA
- Person or child: call Poison Help 1-800-222-1222 (free, confidential, 24/7; HRSA Poison Help).
- Dog, cat or other pet: call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435 (24/7; a consultation fee may apply; ASPCA) or your veterinarian.
- Trouble breathing, seizures or collapse: call 911.
Details
ASPCA lists Flag (Iris species) as toxic to dogs and toxic to cats. ASPCA's entry covers the whole genus Iris species, not Iris versicolor by name.
NC State Extension also flags it as a problem for: Cats, Dogs, Horses.
Reported symptoms in people (NC State Extension): CAUSES ONLY LOW TOXICITY IF EATEN. SKIN IRRITATION MINOR, OR LASTING ONLY FOR A FEW MINUTES. Nausea, salivation, vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy, diarrhea, elevated temperature following ingestion; skin irritation upon contact with seeds, rootstock, or cell sap. Highest concentration in rhizomes.
Poisonous parts: Roots Sap/Juice Seeds.
Toxic compound: Pentacylic terpenoids (zeorin, missourin and missouriensin), Irisin, iridin, or irisine.
Can cause skin irritation (contact dermatitis) on touch.
This page summarizes published lists. It is not medical or veterinary advice. Keep plants away from young children and pets, and call the numbers above with any concern. Checked 2026-10-14.