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Chaparral
Larrea tridentata · Zygophyllaceae
How it looks
Creosote Bush is a desert shrub with small, thick, glossy, divided dark green leaves arranged opposite. After rain it gives off a strong creosote (tar-like) scent. Small yellow flowers bloom at the branch tips, and it reaches 3-10 ft (1-3 m) tall.
Chaparral 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
- Larrea tridentata
- Common name
- Chaparral
- Family
- Zygophyllaceae
- Source
- ASPCA cats plant list
Related plants
Other safe flowers
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