Hawaiian Ti
Cordyline fruticosa · Asparagaceae
How it looks
Hawaiian Ti is a Cordyline whose long, broad sword-shaped leaves gather in a tuft at the top of the stem. The leaves are showy in purple, pink, and red tones and have a glossy sheen. It stands 20 in–7 ft (50 cm–2 m) tall and is popular as a tropical ornamental.
Mild caution — stomach irritation
All parts of Hawaiian Ti contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and depression 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 Hawaiian Ti usually doesn't lead to anything serious, but the saponins 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
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, depression
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Cordyline fruticosa
- Common name
- Hawaiian Ti
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Saponins
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, depression
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
- Source
- ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Asparagaceae
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