The dogwood genus, Cornus, encompasses a variety of trees and shrubs commonly planted for their ornamental value. These plants produce small, often brightly colored berries, which frequently prompt concern about potential toxicity to humans and household pets. Determining the safety of dogwood berries is not straightforward, as the risk depends entirely on the specific species of the plant. Accurate identification is the most important step for homeowners.
Differentiating Dogwood Species
The wide range of species within the Cornus genus leads to significant variation in fruit edibility and toxicity. The Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida), native to Eastern North America, is the species most often associated with toxicity concerns. Its bright red berries are generally considered non-toxic to pets by major animal poison control organizations, but they are extremely unpalatable. The berries of C. florida contain bitter compounds, and consumption typically results in mild gastrointestinal upset rather than severe poisoning.
In contrast, two other common dogwood species produce safe and even edible berries. The Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa), an Asian species, develops fleshy, raspberry-like fruits that are non-toxic to both humans and pets. These fruits, which ripen in late summer, are often used in jams and jellies. Similarly, the Cornelian Cherry Dogwood (Cornus mas) produces small, tart, red berries that are non-toxic and have historically been used in cooking. Consuming a large quantity of any dogwood fruit can still lead to minor digestive discomfort due to the high fiber content.
Symptoms Following Ingestion
Ingestion of the mildly irritating berries, like those from Cornus florida, typically results in localized digestive reactions. For humans, these symptoms are generally limited to mild gastrointestinal distress, including nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. The unpleasant, bitter taste often limits the amount consumed, which helps prevent more serious effects.
For dogs and cats, the primary concern is the potential for stomach upset if the unpalatable berries are consumed in excess. Symptoms in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and lethargy. Although the Flowering Dogwood is classified as non-toxic, consuming large amounts of any foreign plant matter can irritate a pet’s digestive system. Monitoring your pet for signs of distress after ingestion is advisable.
Emergency Response and Prevention
If a child or pet consumes dogwood berries, the initial response should be immediate contact with a medical professional or poison control center. For humans, call the National Poison Control Center for expert advice. For pets, contact a veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Identifying the dogwood species is helpful, but seeking guidance is the primary action.
Never attempt to induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a medical professional, as this can cause harm. Medical treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Prevention is the safest strategy, especially in households with young children or animals. Regularly rake up and dispose of fallen berries to minimize accidental ingestion. If a toxic species is present, installing a physical barrier or redirecting pets away from the area can help prevent access.