Cardinal Flower
Lobelia cardinalis · Campanulaceae
How it looks
The cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) has narrow, long serrated leaves arranged alternately and vivid red lip-shaped flowers borne in spikes at the branch tips. Height 2 ft to 4 ft (60 cm–1.2 m), growing upright and common in gardens and wetlands.
Caution — monitor for GI symptoms
All parts of Cardinal Flower contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting, depression, and heavy drooling if chewed. Most cats recover on their own, but as a caution-level plant it still calls for monitoring.
Guide for parents
An occasional nibble of Cardinal Flower usually doesn't lead to anything serious, but the lobelanine and pyridine alkaloids in it can irritate the stomach and mucous membranes and cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Make a habit of clearing away fallen leaves or broken stems the same day, and keep the pot somewhere your cat can't reach. If symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat's appetite clearly drops, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, depression, hypersalivation
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
Details
- Scientific name
- Lobelia cardinalis
- Common name
- Cardinal Flower
- Family
- Campanulaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Lobelanine, Pyridine alkaloids
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, depression, hypersalivation
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
- Source
- ASPCA
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