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Bullbrier
Smilax rotundifolia · Smilacaceae
How it looks
Bullbrier is a plant with thorny vining stems bearing alternate, glossy, round to oval leaves. In autumn it produces small round red or black fruits in clusters. The leaves may also turn red in fall; length 10-16 ft (3-5 m).
This plant is listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA. An occasional nibble is unlikely to cause any real trouble.
Guide for parents
What your cat can reach is the lower leaves and stems, plus whatever has fallen to the ground. If it is standing outside in the yard, take a look at whether the space underneath is a path your cat uses often.
Fallen leaves keep piling up if left alone, so clear the side where your cat spends time now and then. If you have brought it indoors in a pot, the rim of the pot — or the tips of any trailing stems — becomes that spot instead.
Details
- Scientific name
- Smilax rotundifolia
- Common name
- Bullbrier
- Family
- Smilacaceae
- Source
- ASPCA cats plant list
Related plants
Same plant family· Smilacaceae
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