Calibrachoa, commonly known as "Million Bells," is a popular ornamental plant prized for its vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers and trailing growth habit. Belonging to the Solanaceae family, it is closely related to petunias and tomatoes. While Calibrachoa is widely used in hanging baskets and garden beds for its aesthetic appeal, pet owners often question its safety due to its familial ties with known toxic plants like nightshade.
Calibrachoa is generally considered non-toxic to pets, including cats and dogs, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Unlike some of its Solanaceae relatives (e.g., belladonna or jimsonweed), Calibrachoa does not contain significant levels of harmful alkaloids like solanine or atropine, which are known to cause severe poisoning in animals.
While Calibrachoa is not classified as toxic, ingestion of large quantities of plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets. Symptoms could include:
These reactions are typically self-limiting and resolve without medical intervention. However, individual sensitivities may vary, and pets with pre-existing health conditions could experience more pronounced effects.
The Solanaceae family includes both harmless and highly toxic species. For example:
Calibrachoa lacks the potent glycoalkaloids found in its dangerous relatives, making it a safer choice for pet-friendly gardens.
Despite its low toxicity, precautions can help ensure pet safety:
If a pet consumes Calibrachoa and exhibits unusual symptoms:
While emergency care is rarely needed, documenting the plant species can assist veterinarians in assessing risk.
