Nandina domestica is toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The reported severity is critical. Also known as Heavenly Bamboo.
This plant is known to be potentially deadly!
If your animal ate this plant, call your veterinarian, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control on (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline on (855) 764-7661. Fees may apply.
Weakness Incoordination Seizures Coma Respiratory Failure Death
The color of each symptom follows the severity scale above.
Nandina domestica commonly known as nandina, heavenly bamboo or sacred bamboo, is a species of flowering plant in the family Berberidaceae, native to eastern Asia from the Himalayas to Japan. It is the only member of the monotypic genus Nandina. Despite its name, it is not a true bamboo.
All parts of the plant are poisonous, containing compounds that decompose to produce hydrogen cyanide, and could be fatal if ingested. The plant is generally considered non-toxic to humans, but the berries are considered toxic to cats and grazing animals. Excessive consumption of the berries will kill birds such as cedar waxwings, because they are subject to cyanide toxicosis, resulting in death to multiple individuals at one time. The berries also contain alkaloids such as nantenine, which is used in scientific research as an antidote to MDMA (ecstasy).
Countries with the most wild observations, from GBIF data.