PlantLegitIs Cardinal flower toxic to dogs, cats or kids?
Yes, it can be toxic.
- DogsToxic (ASPCA)
- CatsToxic (ASPCA)
- People & kidsMedium poison severity (NC State Extension)
Sources (6)
- ASPCA plant entry: Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) – 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
- Lobelia cardinalis 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
Think someone ate part of a plant?
- 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 Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) as toxic to dogs and toxic to cats.
Reported symptoms in people (NC State Extension): TOXIC ONLY IF LARGE QUANTITIES EATEN. Nausea, depression, vomiting, diarrhea, salivation, exhaustion and weakness, dilation of pupils, convulsions, and coma, abdominal pain, heart rhythm disturbances.
Poisonous parts: Flowers Fruits Leaves Roots Sap/Juice Seeds Stems.
Toxic compound: Alkaloids lobelamine, lobeline, and others, plus a volatile oil.
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.