Pink Pearl
Begonia semperflorens cultivar · Begoniaceae
How it looks
Pink pearl begonia is a begonia with rounded, glossy leaves and pink-to-red flowers that bloom year-round. The leaves are deep green or purplish, and the flowers appear in small clusters. Grows 8–16 in tall; common in flower beds and pots.
Mild caution — stomach upset
The roots and leaves of pink pearl begonia contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting if chewed. Most cats recover on their own, but as a caution-level plant it still calls for monitoring.
Guide for parents
A nibble or two of pink pearl begonia rarely leads to serious trouble, but its calcium oxalates and oxalates irritate the stomach and mucous membranes, causing mild digestive upset. Make it a habit to clear fallen leaves and 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 drops noticeably, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- Within minutes to 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Oral irritation, vomiting
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Begonia semperflorens cultivar
- Common name
- Pink Pearl
- Family
- Begoniaceae
- Toxic parts
- Roots, Leaves
- Compounds
- Calcium oxalates, Oxalates
- Onset
- Within minutes to 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Oral irritation, vomiting
- 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· Begoniaceae
Related guides
Top 10 Flowers Dangerous to Cats — The Ones You See at Florists
Ten flowers you'll commonly find at florists and grocery stores that are toxic to cats. Check before you receive them, and before you bring them home.
Got a Bouquet? What to Do If You Have a Cat
A bouquet is a lovely surprise — but if you live with a cat, there are a few things to take care of right away. From checking what's in the arrangement to choosing the right vase, here's what actually helps, in order.
Why Cats Chew Plants, and How to Stop It
A cat chewing and tearing at plants isn't just mischief — there's an instinct behind it. Once you understand why, the ways to stop it follow naturally.