Poisonous Ornamental Grasses

Palm Lily

• Palm lily, or Cordyline australis, is toxic to both dogs and cats, according to the ASPCA. Palm lily contains the toxin saponins and can cause vomiting, depression and hypersalivation. In cats, ingestion can also cause pupil dilation.

Pampas Grass

• Pampas grass, or Cortaderia selloana, is an ornamental grass that is generally considered nontoxic to humans, but it may cause gastrointestinal irritation when ingested, according to the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. The plant is not toxic to horses, dogs or cats, notes the ASPCA.

Treatment

• If you, a loved one or an animal may have ingested a poisonous ornamental grass, attempt to identify the plant and call a poison control center immediately. Symptomatic humans and animals require medical or veterinary care immediately.

Considerations

• Humans and animals can experience severe reactions to grasses and plants that are not normally considered toxic. Allergies to plants are common and many plants carry mold and bacteria that may potentially lead to irritation or illness.