American Mandrake
Podophyllum peltatum · Berberidaceae
How it looks
American Mandrake (Podophyllum) is a perennial with one or two large umbrella-shaped leaves at the top of the stem. A single white cup-shaped flower hides beneath the leaves. It grows 12-20 in (30-50 cm) tall on the floor of damp woodlands.
Caution — monitor for GI symptoms
All parts of American Mandrake, especially the roots and unripe fruit, contain high levels of podophyllotoxin. Ingestion can quickly cause severe vomiting and diarrhea along with liver damage, so immediate veterinary care is needed.
Guide for parents
An occasional nibble on American Mandrake rarely leads to serious trouble, but the podophyllotoxin it contains irritates the stomach and mucous membranes, causing mild digestive upset. 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 symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat's appetite drops noticeably, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, liver damage
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
Details
- Scientific name
- Podophyllum peltatum
- Common name
- American Mandrake
- Family
- Berberidaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts (especially the roots, Unripe fruit)
- Compounds
- Podophyllotoxin
- Source
- ASPCA
