Hellebore
Helleborus orientalis
Dogs: Moderate
Cats: Moderate
Plant Information
Christmas Rose, Lenten Rose, Winter Rose
Ranunculaceae
garden
Moderately Toxic
Toxicity Details
all parts, roots
Bufadienolides, protoanemonin, saponins
1 to 6 hours
moderate
Symptoms to Watch For
- Drooling
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Depression
- Cardiac abnormalities (large amounts)
What to Do
Contact vet. Most cases involve GI upset only. Large ingestions may cause cardiac symptoms — monitor for lethargy and weakness.
About Hellebore
Hellebores bloom in late winter when few other plants flower. All parts are toxic, with the roots most concentrated. While fatalities are rare in pets, the combination of cardiac glycosides and irritants can cause significant distress.
Safe Alternatives
These plants provide a similar look but are non-toxic to pets: