Clematis Toxic?
All fresh Clematis hybrid plant parts contain toxic protoanemonin, while dried plant material is completely non-toxic.
The plant is severely toxic to birds, and ingestion can lead to life-threatening adverse effects.
Ingestion of fresh plant tissue may cause gastroenteritis, blood in urine, seizures, or paralysis in affected organisms.
FAQ
Is Clematis toxic to Humans?
Limited species-specific data available; potential symptoms include gastrointestinal irritation, hematuria, cramps, and paralysis after ingestion of large amounts of fresh plant material. (Moderate)
Is Clematis toxic to Cats?
Species-specific toxicity data not explicitly documented; ingestion may potentially cause gastrointestinal distress, blood in urine, and neurological symptoms. (Moderate)
Is Clematis toxic to Dogs?
Species-specific toxicity data not explicitly documented; ingestion may potentially cause gastrointestinal distress, blood in urine, and neurological symptoms. (Moderate)
Is Clematis toxic to Horses?
Species-specific toxicity data not explicitly documented; ingestion may potentially cause gastrointestinal distress, blood in urine, and neurological symptoms. (Moderate)
Toxicity Details
Limited species-specific data available; potential symptoms include gastrointestinal irritation, hematuria, cramps, and paralysis after ingestion of large amounts of fresh plant material.
Species-specific toxicity data not explicitly documented; ingestion may potentially cause gastrointestinal distress, blood in urine, and neurological symptoms.
Species-specific toxicity data not explicitly documented; ingestion may potentially cause gastrointestinal distress, blood in urine, and neurological symptoms.
Species-specific toxicity data not explicitly documented; ingestion may potentially cause gastrointestinal distress, blood in urine, and neurological symptoms.
Toxicity Snapshot
First Aid & Prevention
First 30 Minutes
- • Rinse mouth thoroughly with clean water immediately after ingestion to remove residual plant material.
- • Wash affected areas with mild soap and running water for 10-15 minutes if exposed to fresh plant sap.
- • Do not induce vomiting unless explicitly instructed by a medical professional or veterinarian.
Contact Vet Immediately
- • Any amount of fresh Clematis is ingested by children, pets, or livestock.
- • Symptoms including vomiting, blood in urine, seizures, or paralysis appear after exposure.
- • Persistent skin or mucous membrane irritation occurs after contact with fresh plant sap.
Prevention
- • Keep fresh Clematis plants out of reach of children, pets, and livestock.
- • Never feed fresh Clematis clippings to any animals, especially birds.
- • Clearly label Clematis plants in home and public gardens to avoid accidental ingestion.
Treatment & Prognosis
- • Administer decontamination measures such as activated charcoal for recent ingestion as directed by a professional.
- • Provide targeted symptomatic supportive care including fluid therapy for dehydration and anticonvulsants for seizures.
- • Monitor vital signs and organ function until all presented symptoms fully resolve.
Professional Toxicology
• Protoanemonin is released when fresh plant tissue is damaged, causing irritation to mucous membranes, gastrointestinal tract, and potential nervous system damage in severe cases.
Information from CliniTox veterinary text.
The following plants look similar and may be confused:
Related Toxic Plants
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Data Sources
This information is for reference only and does not constitute medical advice. If ingestion or poisoning is suspected, seek medical or veterinary attention immediately.

