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.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, depression
- Onset (typical course)
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
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.
Details
- Scientific name
- Cordyline fruticosa
- Common name
- Hawaiian Ti
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Saponins
- Source
- ASPCA cats plant list
Related plants
Same plant family· Asparagaceae
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