Firecracker flower Toxic?

Updated 2026-04-04| 3 min read| 2,321 found this helpful

No verified toxicity to humans, cats, dogs, or horses is recorded for this species in published research

While classified as likely non-toxic, this ornamental plant is not suitable for use as feed for any livestock or companion animal

Incidental small ingestion is unlikely to cause harm, but consumption of large quantities of any non-food ornamental plant is discouraged

FAQ

Is Firecracker flower toxic to Humans?

No specific toxic symptoms are documented; mild transient gastrointestinal upset may occur only if very large quantities are ingested, as with most non-food plants (Non-toxic)

Is Firecracker flower toxic to Cats?

No specific toxic symptoms are documented; mild transient gastrointestinal upset may occur only if very large quantities are ingested, as with most non-food plants (Non-toxic)

Is Firecracker flower toxic to Dogs?

No specific toxic symptoms are documented; mild transient gastrointestinal upset may occur only if very large quantities are ingested, as with most non-food plants (Non-toxic)

Is Firecracker flower toxic to Horses?

No specific toxic symptoms are documented; mild transient gastrointestinal upset may occur only if very large quantities are ingested, as with most non-food plants (Non-toxic)

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Toxicity Details

Humans

Non-toxic

No specific toxic symptoms are documented; mild transient gastrointestinal upset may occur only if very large quantities are ingested, as with most non-food plants

Cats

Non-toxic

No specific toxic symptoms are documented; mild transient gastrointestinal upset may occur only if very large quantities are ingested, as with most non-food plants

Dogs

Non-toxic

No specific toxic symptoms are documented; mild transient gastrointestinal upset may occur only if very large quantities are ingested, as with most non-food plants

Horses

Non-toxic

No specific toxic symptoms are documented; mild transient gastrointestinal upset may occur only if very large quantities are ingested, as with most non-food plants

Toxicity Snapshot

Toxic PartsNo toxic plant parts have been identified; all components are considered likely non-toxic, though intentional consumption is not advised

Exposure RouteIngestion is the only potential exposure route; no skin irritation or contact toxicity has been reported for this species

Toxic CompoundsNo toxic bioactive compounds linked to this species have been identified in published research to date

First Aid & Prevention

First 30 Minutes

• Rinse the mouth of the exposed human or animal with clean water to remove remaining plant material
• Discard any leftover plant parts to prevent further accidental consumption by children or pets
• Monitor the exposed individual for non-specific mild symptoms such as nausea or loose stools for 24 hours

Contact Vet Immediately

• If the exposed animal develops persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy lasting longer than 24 hours post-ingestion
• If the animal has pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions or known sensitivities to ornamental plants

Prevention

• Store all ornamental houseplants out of the reach of young children, pets, and grazing livestock
• Never harvest or feed this ornamental plant to any livestock or companion animal, as it is not approved as fodder
• Confirm exact plant identity before assessing toxicity risk, as other Crossandra species may have different risk profiles

Treatment & Prognosis

• Only supportive care is required if mild gastrointestinal symptoms occur, such as access to fresh water and rest
• No specific antidote is needed, as no toxic effects from this species have been documented

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Professional Toxicology

Scientific NameCrossandra infundibuliformis (L.) Nees

AliasesFirecracker plant、Kanakambaram、Crossandra (German common name)、Crossandre en entonnoir (French common name)

Toxicity Grade

HumansNon-toxic

CatsNon-toxic

DogsNon-toxic

HorsesNon-toxic

Target Organs

No organ systems are known to be negatively impacted by exposure to this plant

Mechanism of Action

• No toxic mode of action has been characterized for this species, as no verified toxicity events have been reported

Other Species Risk (CliniTox)

Information from CliniTox veterinary text.

Cattle, sheep, and goats: No toxicity documented, but the plant is not intended for use as fodder, so feeding large volumes is not advised

Small companion mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters): No adverse effects reported from incidental ingestion, but regular consumption of this non-forage plant is not recommended

Confusion Risk

The following plants look similar and may be confused:

Other Crossandra species Crossandra spp.

Other members of the Crossandra genus have not been assessed for toxicity in the same reference literature. Confirm exact species identity before evaluating risk, as this guidance applies only to Crossandra infundibuliformis

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Related Toxic Plants

Bear's breeches

Acanthus mollis

Low toxicity, may cause mild skin irritation and gastrointestinal upset if ingested

Malabar nut

Justicia adhatoda

Moderate toxicity, contains alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory distress in large quantities

Porcupine flower

Barleria prionitis

Low toxicity, may cause mild oral irritation and gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large amounts

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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.