Heavenly Bamboo
Nandina domestica · Berberidaceae
How it looks
Heavenly Bamboo is an evergreen shrub with feathery, finely divided leaves that gather at the stem tips. The new growth and the autumn and winter leaves turn red. Small white flowers bloom in clusters, and round red fruit hangs in large clusters. It reaches 3-7 ft (1-2 m) tall. It is not a true bamboo.
Caution — monitor for neurological signs
Chewing Heavenly Bamboo can cause weakness and incoordination, and it can progress to seizures, coma, and respiratory failure. Death is rare in pets, but call your vet if you suspect your cat ate any.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
- Symptoms
- Weakness, Incoordination, Seizures, Coma, Respiratory failure, Death (rare)
- Onset (typical course)
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
Guide for parents
Heavenly bamboo isn't a plant that stops at stomach irritation. Ingestion can bring weakness and an unsteady gait, and it can progress to seizures, coma, and respiratory failure. Death is rarely reported in pets.
Make a habit of picking up fallen leaves and broken stems the same day, and keep the pot out of your cat's reach.
If you see neurological signs — staggering, or clouded consciousness — don't wait; call your vet right away.
Details
- Scientific name
- Nandina domestica
- Common name
- Heavenly Bamboo
- Family
- Berberidaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Alkaloids
- Source
- ASPCA cats plant list
Related plants
Same plant family· Berberidaceae
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