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Impatiens
Impatiens spp. · Balsaminaceae
How it looks
Impatiens is a small herb with serrated, glossy, oval deep-green leaves and abundant five-petaled flowers in pink, red, purple, and white along the branches. The stems and leaves are succulent. Height 8–20 in (20–50 cm), popular in flower beds.
Impatiens is listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA. An occasional nibble is unlikely to cause any real trouble.
Guide for parents
If leaves or stems sit at a height your cat can reach, they may get chewed or snapped. If the same spot keeps turning up damaged, that may be a route your cat takes.
If the pot can be moved, shift it off that route; if the plant is in the ground, just pick up dropped or broken pieces whenever you notice them.
Details
- Scientific name
- Impatiens spp.
- Common name
- Impatiens
- Family
- Balsaminaceae
- Source
- ASPCA cats plant list
Related plants
Other safe flowers
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