Hardy Cyclamen

Cyclamen hederifolium

Dogs: Severe Cats: Severe

Veterinary Emergency

Veterinary emergency if tuber was ingested. The tuber/root contains the highest concentration of toxins. Seek immediate vet care.

ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 | Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Plant Information

Common Names

Sowbread, Ivy-Leaved Cyclamen, Persian Violet

Family

Primulaceae

Toxicity Details

Toxic Parts

tubers (root), all parts

Toxic Compound

Terpenoid saponins (cyclamin)

Onset Time

30 minutes to 2 hours

Severity

severe

Symptoms to Watch For

Severe vomiting
Diarrhea
Heart rhythm abnormalities
Seizures
Death

What to Do

Veterinary emergency if tuber was ingested. The tuber/root contains the highest concentration of toxins. Seek immediate vet care.

Do not wait for symptoms. Call your vet or poison control immediately.

About Hardy Cyclamen

Hardy Cyclamen is the outdoor cousin of florist cyclamen. The tuber (root) contains extremely concentrated terpenoid saponins. While nibbling leaves may cause mild GI upset, ingesting even a small piece of tuber can cause cardiac arrhythmias and death.

Safe Alternatives

These plants provide a similar look but are non-toxic to pets:

✓ African Violet ✓ Impatiens ✓ Pansy