Dogwood trees, belonging to the genus Cornus, are highly valued in landscaping for their spring blooms and vibrant fall foliage. Because these trees are widespread, many homeowners and pet owners question their safety. The primary concern revolves around potential toxicity to humans, especially children, and common household pets like dogs and cats.
The Quick Answer: Dogwood Safety
The general consensus among veterinary and horticultural experts is that the most common ornamental dogwoods, such as the Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) and the Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa), are not considered poisonous. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) lists the Flowering Dogwood as non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.
While the plant is non-toxic, ingesting large quantities of any non-food plant material can lead to a minor reaction. The indigestible nature of plant matter, including dogwood berries, can cause mechanical irritation in the digestive tract. This irritation may result in mild symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, which is a common reaction to consuming unfamiliar foliage. The reaction is typically self-limiting and does not indicate a life-threatening poisoning event.
Key Species Differences
The confusion surrounding dogwood toxicity often relates to the fruit, as different Cornus species produce strikingly different berries. The red fruit of the native Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) is generally considered inedible for humans. While not chemically poisonous, these small, oval berries have a mealy, bitter flesh that is highly unpalatable and can cause stomach upset if eaten in any quantity. This natural bitterness acts as a deterrent, discouraging both people and animals from consuming enough to cause a significant reaction.
In contrast, the fruit of the Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa) is safe to eat and is even used in culinary applications. The Kousa produces a larger, raspberry-like fruit that ripens in late summer or early fall and has a soft, sweet pulp.
Risks to Pets and Children
For curious children and pets, the small, bright red berries of the Flowering Dogwood present the greatest appeal and thus the highest risk for accidental ingestion. The primary concern is not a toxic reaction, but a low-level gastrointestinal disturbance. If a dog or cat chews on the leaves or eats a small number of berries, they may exhibit temporary symptoms such as drooling, mild vomiting, or soft stool. These symptoms are usually temporary and indicate digestive irritation rather than systemic poisoning.
Parents and pet owners should monitor the individual closely following ingestion. If only a small amount was consumed and symptoms are limited to mild, temporary stomach upset, home observation is often sufficient. However, if a large volume of plant material was eaten, or if symptoms like severe vomiting, persistent diarrhea, lethargy, or weakness develop, immediate consultation with a veterinarian or a poison control center is necessary. This professional advice ensures a proper assessment, especially to rule out ingestion of other, truly toxic plants that may look similar.
Common Misconceptions
The persistent belief that dogwood trees are poisonous largely stems from the bitter taste and indigestible nature of the Cornus florida fruit. Any plant material consumed in excess, especially something as bitter as the C. florida berries, can lead to a stomachache, which people often mistakenly label as a poisoning. The term “poisonous” is sometimes used loosely to mean “inedible” or “causing temporary illness,” which contributes to the spread of misinformation. Furthermore, some dogwood species, particularly the flowers of C. florida, have been anecdotally reported to cause minor skin irritation or a rash in sensitive individuals upon contact.