Bullbrier

Safe for cats

Great as a gift 🌸

Bullbrier

Smilax rotundifolia · Smilacaceae

How it looks

Bullbrier is a plant with thorny vining stems bearing alternate, glossy, round to oval leaves. In autumn it produces small round red or black fruits in clusters. The leaves may also turn red in fall; length 10-16 ft (3-5 m).

This plant is listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA. An occasional nibble is unlikely to cause any real trouble.

Guide for parents

Even with a safe plant, make a habit of picking up fallen leaves the same day. If your cat likes to dig in or eat potting soil, fertilizer ingredients can upset their stomach — covering the soil with pebbles works well. If it comes home as a cut stem, florists often treat it with preservatives, so place the vase where your cat can't drink the water.