South African geranium Toxic?

Updated 2026-03-06| 5 min read| 912 found this helpful

Pelargonium sidoides DC.; Geranium sidaefolium Thunb.; Pelargonium sidaefolium (Thunb.) R.Knuth

Toxins are present in Pelargonium sidoides, but no documented animal poisoning cases are reported in scientific literature

This plant is not appropriate to use as feed for any pets, livestock, or working animals including horses

It carries confusion risk with other Pelargonium species that may have higher confirmed toxicity levels

FAQ

Is South African geranium toxic to Humans?

No confirmed human poisoning symptoms are documented for this species; mild gastrointestinal discomfort may occur if large quantities are ingested (Non-toxic)

Is South African geranium toxic to Cats?

No confirmed feline poisoning cases are reported; monitor for unusual lethargy, vomiting, or drooling if ingestion is suspected (Low)

Is South African geranium toxic to Dogs?

No confirmed canine poisoning cases are reported; monitor for vomiting, diarrhea, or appetite loss if ingestion is suspected (Low)

Is South African geranium toxic to Horses?

No confirmed equine poisoning cases are reported; monitor for colic, feed refusal, or lethargy if ingestion is suspected (Low)

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Toxicity Details

Humans

Non-toxic

No confirmed human poisoning symptoms are documented for this species; mild gastrointestinal discomfort may occur if large quantities are ingested

Cats

Low

No confirmed feline poisoning cases are reported; monitor for unusual lethargy, vomiting, or drooling if ingestion is suspected

Dogs

Low

No confirmed canine poisoning cases are reported; monitor for vomiting, diarrhea, or appetite loss if ingestion is suspected

Horses

Low

No confirmed equine poisoning cases are reported; monitor for colic, feed refusal, or lethargy if ingestion is suspected

Toxicity Snapshot

Toxic PartsToxins have been detected across all tested plant tissues; no animal poisoning cases linked to this species are published. It is not suitable for animal feed

Exposure RoutePrimary exposure routes are accidental ingestion by pets or livestock, and intentional use as a feed supplement

Toxic CompoundsUnidentified toxic compounds; further phytochemical analysis is required to isolate specific toxic agents

First Aid & Prevention

First 30 Minutes

• Remove any remaining plant material from the exposed individual's mouth
• Rinse oral cavity with clean, cool water if plant residue is visible
• Monitor for unusual behavior, vomiting, or gastrointestinal distress immediately after exposure

Contact Vet Immediately

• If large quantities of the plant are ingested by any pet or livestock species
• If unusual symptoms (vomiting, lethargy, equine colic) develop after suspected ingestion
• If the plant was intentionally fed to any animal as feed or supplement

Prevention

• Do not use this plant as a feed source for any pets, livestock, or working animals
• Keep potted specimens out of reach of curious pets including cats and dogs
• Correctly identify Pelargonium species before handling to avoid confusion with more toxic varieties

Treatment & Prognosis

• Supportive care based on presented symptoms
• Gastrointestinal decontamination (e.g. activated charcoal) if large amounts are ingested shortly before treatment
• Symptomatic management of vomiting, diarrhea, or other presenting adverse effects

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Professional Toxicology

Scientific NamePelargonium sidoides DC.; Geranium sidaefolium Thunb.; Pelargonium sidaefolium (Thunb.) R.Knuth

AliasesBlack pelargonium、Cape pelargonium、African geranium

Toxicity Grade

HumansNon-toxic

CatsLow

DogsLow

HorsesLow

Target Organs

No specific target organs identified in existing research; theoretical risk to gastrointestinal tract if large quantities are ingested

Mechanism of Action

• Specific toxic mechanism is uncharacterized due to lack of documented poisoning cases

Other Species Risk (CliniTox)

Information from CliniTox veterinary text.

Small mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters): No documented poisoning cases; avoid feeding as part of forage due to confirmed toxin presence

Ruminants (cattle, sheep, goats): No published poisoning reports; unsuitable as feed material to avoid potential adverse effects

Confusion Risk

The following plants look similar and may be confused:

Other ornamental Pelargonium species Pelargonium spp.

Visually similar in foliage and flower structure to many common garden Pelargonium varieties; some related species have confirmed higher toxicity levels for pets and livestock

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Related Toxic Plants

Herb Robert

Geranium robertianum L.

Low toxicity, may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in pets

Rose-scented geranium

Pelargonium capitatum (L.) L'Hér.

Low toxicity, can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs and cats if ingested

Sticky geranium

Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A.Mey.

Low to moderate toxicity, may cause oral irritation and digestive upset in all 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.

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