Moss Rose
Portulaca grandiflora · Portulacaceae
How it looks
Moss Rose has slender, cylindrical succulent leaves that grow in clusters along the stems. The stems creep sideways, and small cup-shaped flowers bloom in a range of colors including red, pink, yellow, and white. It reaches 4-8 in (10-20 cm) tall and is common in flower beds and between rocks.
Mild caution — stomach irritation
All parts of Moss Rose contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting and lethargy 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 Moss Rose usually doesn't lead to anything serious, but the unidentified compounds 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, lethargy
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Portulaca grandiflora
- Common name
- Moss Rose
- Family
- Portulacaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Unknown
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, lethargy
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
- Source
- ASPCA
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