Blue-green spiny burr Toxic?

Updated 2026-03-06| 4 min read| 4,948 found this helpful

Acaena buchananii Hook.f.

No verified toxicity reports for this species exist in available peer-reviewed literature

The plant is not suitable for use as feed for any companion animals or livestock

Other Acaena genus species may have varying toxicity profiles, so accurate identification is critical

FAQ

Is Blue-green spiny burr toxic to Humans?

No confirmed toxicity-related symptoms reported; seek medical attention if unusual symptoms occur after ingestion (Non-toxic)

Is Blue-green spiny burr toxic to Cats?

No confirmed toxicity-related symptoms reported; consult a veterinarian if unusual symptoms occur after ingestion (Non-toxic)

Is Blue-green spiny burr toxic to Dogs?

No confirmed toxicity-related symptoms reported; consult a veterinarian if unusual symptoms occur after ingestion (Non-toxic)

Is Blue-green spiny burr toxic to Horses?

No confirmed toxicity-related symptoms reported; consult a veterinarian if unusual symptoms occur after ingestion (Non-toxic)

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Toxicity Details

Humans

Non-toxic

No confirmed toxicity-related symptoms reported; seek medical attention if unusual symptoms occur after ingestion

Cats

Non-toxic

No confirmed toxicity-related symptoms reported; consult a veterinarian if unusual symptoms occur after ingestion

Dogs

Non-toxic

No confirmed toxicity-related symptoms reported; consult a veterinarian if unusual symptoms occur after ingestion

Horses

Non-toxic

No confirmed toxicity-related symptoms reported; consult a veterinarian if unusual symptoms occur after ingestion

Toxicity Snapshot

Toxic PartsNo toxic plant parts identified; the species is presumed non-toxic but unsuitable for animal fodder

Exposure RouteIngestion is the primary potential exposure route; no dermal or inhalation toxicity risks have been documented

Toxic Compounds

First Aid & Prevention

First 30 Minutes

• Rinse the mouth thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining plant residue after ingestion
• Monitor the exposed individual or pet for unusual discomfort, gastrointestinal signs, or behavioral changes for 24 hours
• Collect a sample of the ingested plant for accurate identification if symptoms develop

Contact Vet Immediately

• Persistent gastrointestinal distress (vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss) occurs post-ingestion
• Unusual lethargy, skin irritation, or respiratory symptoms develop after exposure
• Large quantities of the plant were consumed by a small pet, young animal, or immunocompromised individual

Prevention

• Do not intentionally feed this plant to any companion animals or grazing livestock
• Accurately identify all Acaena species before planting in areas accessible to pets or livestock
• Keep unknown garden or potted plants out of reach of young children and curious pets

Treatment & Prognosis

• No specific antidote is required for incidental ingestion of small amounts
• Provide symptomatic supportive care as recommended by a medical provider or veterinarian if adverse effects occur

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Professional Toxicology

Scientific NameAcaena buchananii Hook.f.

AliasesBlaugrünes Stachelnüsschen、Buchanan's acaena

Toxicity Grade

HumansNon-toxic

CatsNon-toxic

DogsNon-toxic

HorsesNon-toxic

Target Organs

No specific organ toxicity has been documented in available research

Mechanism of Action

• No confirmed toxicity mechanisms have been identified for this species

Other Species Risk (CliniTox)

Information from CliniTox veterinary text.

General grazing livestock: No confirmed toxicity reported, but the species is not recommended for use as feed for any agricultural livestock species

Confusion Risk

The following plants look similar and may be confused:

Other Acaena species Acaena spp.

This species is visually similar to closely related congeneric Acaena species, which may have different toxicity profiles. Accurate identification requires examination of leaf shape, flower color, and burr structure.

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Related Toxic Plants

Common cherry laurel

Prunus laurocerasus

High toxicity, contains cyanogenic glycosides

Black cherry

Prunus serotina

Moderate to high toxicity, particularly dangerous for horses

Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster spp.

Low to moderate toxicity, contains cyanogenic glycosides

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Data Sources

1. CliniTox (Universität Zürich)

This information is for reference only and does not constitute medical advice. If ingestion or poisoning is suspected, seek medical or veterinary attention immediately.

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