Is Jerusalem cherry poisonous to dogs or cats?

Jerusalem cherry

  • Scientific Name: Solanum pseudocapsicum
  • Also Known As: Jerusalem cherry, Christmas cherry, Natal cherry, winter cherry, ornamental pepper
  • Is It Toxic? Yes
  • Toxins: Solanocapsine, solanocapsidine, solanine found in all plant parts; ripe and unripe berries similarly toxic; cholinesterase inhibition
  • Symptoms: Vomiting, mydriasis, drowsiness
  • Toxic Parts:
  • General:

If your dog or cat has eaten Jerusalem cherry (Solanum pseudocapsicum), the fruit from this vine is poisonous. The toxin in these ripe and unripe fruits is called solanocapsine, solanocapsidine, and solanine. The toxic effects of Jerusalem cherry vary with the age of the berries. If the fruit is toxic to your animal, you should seek medical attention immediately.

What is Jerusalem cherry?

Jerusalem cherry (Solanum pseudocapsicum) is a plant that is known by many common names that include potato tree, potato bush, potato weed, wild potato, and bitter root. The plant is indigenous to the Mediterranean region and has been cultivated worldwide for at least 2,000 years.