Plumed cockscomb Toxic?

Updated 2026-03-06| 3 min read| 3,687 found this helpful

Contains oxalates in all plant parts and saponins specifically in roots and seeds

No formal animal or human poisoning cases have been recorded in published literature to date

Strictly unsuitable for use as feed for pets, livestock, or grazing animals regardless of no reported cases

FAQ

Is Plumed cockscomb toxic to Humans?

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported; may cause mild oral irritation, nausea or diarrhea if large quantities are ingested (Non-toxic)

Is Plumed cockscomb toxic to Cats?

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported; may cause mild vomiting or gastrointestinal upset if large quantities are ingested (Non-toxic)

Is Plumed cockscomb toxic to Dogs?

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported; may cause mild vomiting or gastrointestinal upset if large quantities are ingested (Non-toxic)

Is Plumed cockscomb toxic to Horses?

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported; may cause mild colic or diarrhea if large quantities are ingested (Non-toxic)

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Toxicity Details

Humans

Non-toxic

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported; may cause mild oral irritation, nausea or diarrhea if large quantities are ingested

Cats

Non-toxic

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported; may cause mild vomiting or gastrointestinal upset if large quantities are ingested

Dogs

Non-toxic

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported; may cause mild vomiting or gastrointestinal upset if large quantities are ingested

Horses

Non-toxic

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported; may cause mild colic or diarrhea if large quantities are ingested

Toxicity Snapshot

Toxic PartsAll plant parts contain oxalates; roots and seeds additionally contain saponins. No confirmed toxic effects are documented, but consumption is not advised.

Exposure RouteIngestion is the primary confirmed exposure risk; no dermal or inhalation toxicity has been reported to date

Toxic CompoundsOxalates; Saponins (root and seed tissues only)

First Aid & Prevention

First 30 Minutes

• Remove any remaining plant material from the mouth of the exposed human or animal immediately
• Rinse the mouth thoroughly with cool, clean water to remove residual plant matter
• Monitor closely for signs of gastrointestinal discomfort for the first 24 hours post-ingestion

Contact Vet Immediately

• If a pet or horse ingests large volumes of the plant
• If persistent vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain or swelling develops after ingestion
• If signs of allergic reaction including difficulty breathing are observed

Prevention

• Keep potted or garden specimens out of reach of pets and grazing livestock
• Never include this plant in homemade feed mixes for any animal species
• Label plants clearly to avoid accidental ingestion by children or foragers

Treatment & Prognosis

• Supportive care including fluid administration to address dehydration from gastrointestinal symptoms
• Symptomatic treatment for mucosal irritation caused by oxalate exposure
• No specific antidote exists; all care is targeted to presented clinical signs

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Professional Toxicology

Scientific NameCelosia argentea L.

AliasesSilver cock's comb、Célosie argentée (French)、Cresta di gallo (Italian)、Silber-Brandschopf (German)

Toxicity Grade

HumansNon-toxic

CatsNon-toxic

DogsNon-toxic

HorsesNon-toxic

Target Organs

Oral mucosaGastrointestinal tract

Mechanism of Action

• Oxalate crystals may cause mild irritation to oral and gastrointestinal mucosal linings if ingested in high doses

• Saponins in root and seed tissues may contribute to mild gastrointestinal upset in large enough quantities

Other Species Risk (CliniTox)

Information from CliniTox veterinary text.

Ruminant livestock (cattle, sheep, goats): No confirmed poisoning cases reported, but the plant is not suitable for feed due to its oxalate and saponin content

Small companion mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs): May experience mild gastrointestinal upset if large quantities are ingested; avoid inclusion in forage mixes

Confusion Risk

The following plants look similar and may be confused:

Other Celosia species Celosia spp.

Visually similar with comparable flower and foliage morphology; toxicity profiles can vary between different Celosia species

Amaranthus species Amaranthus spp.

Similar growth habit and leaf shape; most Amaranthus species are confirmed non-toxic, creating misidentification risk for foraging or feed use

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Related Toxic Plants

Redroot pigweed

Amaranthus retroflexus

Moderate toxicity; may cause nitrate poisoning in livestock if ingested in large volumes

Kochia

Bassia scoparia

Moderate to high toxicity; can cause liver and kidney damage plus photosensitization in grazing animals

Lamb's quarters

Chenopodium album

Low toxicity; may cause oxalate poisoning if consumed in very large quantities by susceptible species

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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.