Is Pencil tree poisonous to dogs or cats?

Pencil tree

  • Scientific Name: Euphorbia tirucalli
  • Also Known As: Pencil tree, milkbush, Indian tree, rubber euphorbia, finger tree, naked lady
  • Is It Toxic? Yes
  • Toxins: Phorbol diterpene esters in milky sap
  • Symptoms: Vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea
  • Toxic Parts:
  • General:

Pencil tree (Euphorbia tirucalli) is a plant that is poisonous to dogs and cats. The toxin in this plant is called phorbol diterpene esters. If a pet ingests this plant, it may vomit, experience abdominal pain, and experience diarrhea. If you are in doubt if your pet has ingested this plant, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What is Pencil tree?

The pencil tree is a perennial shrub native to tropical and western Asia, including East and South Asia. The genus name “Euphorbia” comes from the Latin word for gladness, euphoria, and means “to rejoice.” The specific name “tirucalli” means “to trample.” The common names of this plant include Pencil Tree, God’s pencil, and Indian ink tree.