Male Peony Toxic?

Updated 2026-03-06| 3 min read| 4,182 found this helpful
Paeonia mascula (L.) Mill.; Paeonia corallina Retz.
1

All parts of the male peony plant are classified as low toxicity per CliniTox ratings

2

Ingestion of flowers or seeds is most likely to trigger gastrointestinal irritation symptoms

3

Treatment for exposure relies on decontamination and targeted symptomatic care

FAQ

Is Male Peony toxic to Humans?

Gastrointestinal irritation including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea after ingestion of flowers or seeds (Low)

Is Male Peony toxic to Cats?

No specific clinical data available; suspected to cause mild gastrointestinal irritation if ingested (Low)

Is Male Peony toxic to Dogs?

No specific clinical data available; suspected to cause mild gastrointestinal irritation if ingested (Low)

Is Male Peony toxic to Horses?

No specific clinical data available; suspected to cause mild gastrointestinal irritation if ingested (Low)

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Toxicity Details

Humans
Low

Gastrointestinal irritation including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea after ingestion of flowers or seeds

Cats
Low

No specific clinical data available; suspected to cause mild gastrointestinal irritation if ingested

Dogs
Low

No specific clinical data available; suspected to cause mild gastrointestinal irritation if ingested

Horses
Low

No specific clinical data available; suspected to cause mild gastrointestinal irritation if ingested

Toxicity Snapshot

Toxic PartsWhole plant
Exposure RouteOral ingestion of any plant part, with elevated risk from consumption of flowers and seeds
Toxic CompoundsPalbinone; Peonin; Albiflorin R1; Benzoylpaeoniflorin; 8-Debenzoylpaeoniflorin; Lactiflorin; Oxypaeoniflorin; Paeonidanin A-E; Paeoniflorigenone; Paeoniflorin; Paeonilactone A-C; Pyrethrin I; Pyrethrin II; Casuariin; Casuarictin; 5-Desgalloylstachyurin; Gallic acid

First Aid & Prevention

First 30 Minutes

  • • Rinse mouth thoroughly to remove remaining plant residue if the exposed individual is conscious
  • • Do not induce vomiting unless explicitly directed by a medical professional or veterinarian
  • • Collect a sample of the ingested plant for accurate identification if possible

Contact Vet Immediately

  • • If any amount of the plant is ingested by children, pets or livestock
  • • If symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea or persistent abdominal pain develop after exposure
  • • If the exposed individual shows signs of distress, disorientation or difficulty breathing

Prevention

  • • Keep male peony plants out of reach of children, cats, dogs and horses
  • • Clearly label Paeonia species plants in home and public gardens to avoid accidental ingestion
  • • Never consume any part of wild Paeonia plants unless verified safe by a qualified toxicologist

Treatment & Prognosis

  • • Perform gastrointestinal decontamination (e.g. activated charcoal administration) appropriate for the exposure timeline
  • • Provide supportive care including anti-emetics and fluid therapy to manage gastrointestinal symptoms and dehydration
  • • Monitor exposed individuals for 24-48 hours to rule out secondary complications
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Professional Toxicology

Scientific NamePaeonia mascula (L.) Mill.; Paeonia corallina Retz.
AliasesBroad-leaved Peony、Mountain Rose
Toxicity Grade
HumansLow
CatsLow
DogsLow
HorsesLow
Target Organs
Gastrointestinal tract
Mechanism of Action

• Irritant compounds including tannins, pyrethrins and terpenes in the plant cause local inflammation of the gastrointestinal mucosa upon ingestion

Other Species Risk (CliniTox)

Information from CliniTox veterinary text.

Ruminant livestock (cattle, sheep, goats): No specific toxicity data available; ingestion is expected to cause mild gastrointestinal irritation consistent with effects observed in humans
Confusion Risk

The following plants look similar and may be confused:

Other Peony species Paeonia spp.
Visually similar to other Paeonia species, most of which also have low toxicity; key distinguishing features include flower color, leaf shape and growth habit, though genetic testing may be needed for exact species identification
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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.

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