Lacy Tree Philodendron
Philodendron selloum · Araceae
How it looks
The Lacy Tree Philodendron is a foliage plant whose large, deeply lobed leaves (over 24 in / 60 cm wide) grow radially from a short stem. The leaves are glossy dark green, with thick, long petioles. It grows 3-7 ft (1-2 m) tall and is kept indoors in large pots.
Mild caution — stomach irritation
All parts of Lacy Tree Philodendron contain irritating compounds that can cause drooling and vomiting 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 on Lacy Tree Philodendron rarely leads to serious trouble, but the insoluble calcium oxalate crystals it contains irritate 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
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Philodendron selloum
- Common name
- Lacy Tree Philodendron
- Family
- Araceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
- Source
- ASPCA
