Showy lady's-slipper Toxic?

Updated 2026-03-06| 2 min read| 4,614 found this helpful

No published scientific evidence confirms toxicity of Cypripedium reginae in humans, cats, dogs, or horses

This species is not considered suitable for use as feed for any domestic animals or livestock

There is a confirmed risk of confusion with other Cypripedium species that may have differing toxicity profiles

FAQ

Is Showy lady's-slipper toxic to Humans?

No documented symptoms of toxicity associated with exposure or ingestion of this species to date (Non-toxic)

Is Showy lady's-slipper toxic to Cats?

No documented symptoms of toxicity associated with exposure or ingestion of this species to date (Non-toxic)

Is Showy lady's-slipper toxic to Dogs?

No documented symptoms of toxicity associated with exposure or ingestion of this species to date (Non-toxic)

Is Showy lady's-slipper toxic to Horses?

No documented symptoms of toxicity associated with exposure or ingestion of this species to date (Non-toxic)

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Toxicity Details

Humans

Non-toxic

No documented symptoms of toxicity associated with exposure or ingestion of this species to date

Cats

Non-toxic

No documented symptoms of toxicity associated with exposure or ingestion of this species to date

Dogs

Non-toxic

No documented symptoms of toxicity associated with exposure or ingestion of this species to date

Horses

Non-toxic

No documented symptoms of toxicity associated with exposure or ingestion of this species to date

Toxicity Snapshot

Toxic PartsNo toxic plant parts documented; the species is presumed non-toxic but not recommended for human or animal consumption

Exposure RoutePrimary potential exposure route is accidental ingestion; no dermal or inhalation toxicity has been reported

Toxic Compounds

First Aid & Prevention

First 30 Minutes

• Rinse mouth thoroughly with clean water if large quantities of the plant are ingested
• Monitor the exposed individual or pet for 24 hours for any unusual discomfort or reactions
• Record the quantity ingested and any observed symptoms for medical or veterinary reference

Contact Vet Immediately

• If your pet or horse shows persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or allergic reaction after ingestion
• If large quantities of the plant have been consumed by a companion animal or livestock

Prevention

• Do not intentionally feed this plant to any pets, companion animals, or livestock
• Avoid misidentifying this species as an edible or forage plant for human or animal use
• Learn to distinguish this species from other Cypripedium varieties to avoid contact with potentially toxic related plants

Treatment & Prognosis

• Provide supportive care for mild, transient gastrointestinal discomfort if it occurs
• Administer antihistamines for rare allergic reactions only under medical or veterinary supervision

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Professional Toxicology

Scientific NameCypripedium reginae Walter

AliasesPink-and-white lady's-slipper、Queen's lady's-slipper、Königin-Frauenschuh (German)、Cypripède royal (French)

Toxicity Grade

HumansNon-toxic

CatsNon-toxic

DogsNon-toxic

HorsesNon-toxic

Target Organs

Mechanism of Action

Other Species Risk (CliniTox)

Information from CliniTox veterinary text.

General livestock (cattle, sheep, goats): No toxicity documented, but the plant is not recommended as a feed source due to insufficient safety testing data

Confusion Risk

The following plants look similar and may be confused:

Other lady's-slipper orchids Cypripedium spp.

All Cypripedium species share the distinctive slipper-shaped flower structure, making visual differentiation challenging without specialized botanical knowledge

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Related Toxic Plants

Yellow lady's-slipper

Cypripedium calceolus

Low, mild skin and gastrointestinal irritant

Spotted coralroot orchid

Corallorhiza maculata

Low, mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities

Tiger orchid

Maxillaria tenuifolia

Low, potential allergen for sensitive individuals and pets

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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.