Boxwood
Buxus sempervirens
Dogs: Moderate
Cats: Moderate
Plant Information
Box, Common Box, Buxus
Buxaceae
garden
Moderately Toxic
Toxicity Details
leaves, bark
Steroidal alkaloids (buxine)
1-6 hours
moderate
Symptoms to Watch For
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Dizziness
- Seizures (large amounts)
- Respiratory failure
What to Do
See vet if more than a few leaves ingested. Monitor for neurological signs. The extremely bitter taste limits ingestion.
About Boxwood
Boxwood is commonly used as formal hedging and topiary. While technically moderately toxic, its extremely bitter taste means pets rarely eat enough to cause serious illness. Large ingestion can cause neurological signs.
Safe Alternatives
These plants provide a similar look but are non-toxic to pets: