When designing a pet-friendly garden, it’s important to know which plants are safe for your furry companions. One common plant that raises questions among dog owners is the Brush Cherry (Syzygium paniculatum).
With its glossy green leaves, puffy white flowers, and bright red berries, it’s a favorite for hedging and landscaping—but is it safe for dogs?
In this article, we answer the question: Is Brush Cherry poisonous to dogs? Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Brush Cherry?
Brush Cherry is a dense evergreen shrub or small tree native to Australia. It belongs to the Syzygium genus and is often used in gardens for:
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Formal hedges
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Topiary shapes
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Bonsai trees
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Ornamental privacy screens
It produces clusters of white flowers followed by attractive red or purple berries, making it a standout in many landscapes.
Is Brush Cherry Poisonous to Dogs?
The good news is that Brush Cherry is not known to be highly toxic to dogs. However, it may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large amounts.
This includes symptoms like:
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Vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Drooling
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Lethargy (in rare cases)
These symptoms are usually mild and resolve on their own, but if you notice persistent or severe signs after your dog has eaten parts of the plant, it’s best to contact your vet.
What Parts of the Brush Cherry Might Affect Dogs?
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Berries: These are edible for humans in moderation, but dogs may have trouble digesting them.
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Leaves and bark: Not toxic, but could be irritating to a dog’s stomach.
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Seeds (if swallowed): Could pose a choking hazard or cause a blockage, especially in small dogs.
How Much Is Too Much?
A small nibble of a leaf or berry will likely not harm your dog. However, if a curious pup eats a large quantity of the plant, it can lead to more noticeable digestive symptoms.
Like many non-toxic plants, it’s the amount ingested that matters most.
What To Do If Your Dog Eats Brush Cherry
If your dog eats part of a Brush Cherry plant:
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Stay calm – It’s unlikely to be dangerous.
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Watch for symptoms – Mild stomach upset is the most common effect.
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Call your vet – Especially if your dog ate a lot, is very small, or is showing unusual behavior.
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Bring a sample – If you’re visiting the vet, bring a piece of the plant to help with identification.
Safe Alternatives for Dog-Friendly Gardens
If you’re concerned about any potential issues, consider planting safer, dog-friendly alternatives like:
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Camellias
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Bottlebrush (Callistemon)
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Marigolds
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Rosemary
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Snapdragons
These plants are generally considered non-toxic and make great additions to pet-safe landscaping.
Final Thoughts
So, is Brush Cherry poisonous to dogs? The short answer is not seriously. It is not considered highly toxic, but it can cause mild digestive issues if ingested in large amounts.
While it’s generally safe to include in a garden where dogs roam, supervision and responsible planting are key to keeping your pets safe.
If in doubt, consult your veterinarian or check the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants to ensure your garden remains a safe haven for every member of the family—four-legged ones included.