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Golden Bells
Forsythia spp. · Oleaceae
How it looks
Golden Bells (Forsythia) is a deciduous shrub that, in early spring before the leaves emerge, densely covers its branches with yellow, bell-shaped, four-lobed flowers. The branches arch long and the leaves are narrow, long, and toothed. It stands 3–10 ft (1–3 m) tall, a signature spring flowering shrub.
Golden Bells is listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA. An occasional nibble is unlikely to cause any real trouble.
Guide for parents
One note on the source first. The ASPCA entry for golden bells covers the genus Forsythia rather than any single species, and the Korean gaenari (Forsythia koreana) falls within that genus.
Even with a safe plant, make a habit of picking up fallen leaves the same day.
If your cat likes to dig in or eat potting soil, fertilizer ingredients can upset their stomach — covering the soil with pebbles works well.
If it comes home as a cut stem, florists often treat it with preservatives, so place the vase where your cat can't drink the water.
Details
- Scientific name
- Forsythia spp.
- Common name
- Golden Bells
- Family
- Oleaceae
- Source
- ASPCA cats plant list
Related plants
Same plant family· Oleaceae
Other safe flowers
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