Short answer
Common garden verbena is generally described as a low-level concern for dogs, with mild stomach upset the most likely result if a dog eats a lot of it. Lemon verbena is a different plant that the ASPCA lists as toxic to dogs. Because the word “verbena” is used for several plants, and because lantana is a toxic lookalike, it is worth confirming exactly what you have. When in doubt, check the plant’s botanical name in the ASPCA’s toxic and non-toxic plant database and call your vet if your dog has eaten something you are unsure about.
“Verbena” can mean different plants
Garden verbena
Plants sold as verbena or vervain in the genus Verbena are popular bedding and container plants. Sources that discuss them generally say that eating a large amount is more likely to cause mild digestive upset than serious poisoning. That does not make them a snack. Any plant can upset a dog’s stomach, and individual dogs react differently.
Lemon verbena
Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora) is a scented herb, not a true Verbena. The ASPCA lists it as toxic to dogs because of its essential oils, which may cause stomach upset. If you grow it for tea or cooking, plant it where your dog cannot reach it, and check the current ASPCA entry for the latest information.
Lantana, a lookalike to avoid
Lantana is a common garden plant with clustered flowers that can be mistaken for verbena. The ASPCA lists it as toxic to dogs, with signs that include vomiting, diarrhea, labored breathing and weakness. If you are not sure whether a plant is verbena or lantana, treat it as lantana until you have identified it, and keep your dog away. A nursery or local extension office can help with identification.
Signs to watch for
If a dog chews or eats a plant they should not, possible signs include:
- Drooling or excessive lip licking
- Pawing at the mouth or face
- Vomiting or diarrhea (see dog vomiting yellow)
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
These signs are not specific to any one plant, and more serious toxins can cause more severe signs. Do not wait for symptoms to escalate if you know your dog has eaten something concerning.
What to do if your dog eats verbena
- Remove your dog from the plant and take any remaining pieces out of the mouth if you can do so safely.
- Identify the plant. Take a photo, and keep a piece or the plant tag if possible.
- Call your veterinarian or a poison hotline. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is reachable at (888) 426-4435, and a consultation fee may apply. Local emergency clinics can also advise.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinary professional tells you to (see hydrogen peroxide on dogs for why home attempts can be risky).
- Go to the clinic urgently if your dog is vomiting repeatedly, very weak, having trouble breathing, or collapsing, or if you think the plant was lantana.
A small nibble of garden verbena often causes nothing or short-lived stomach upset, but a call to your vet is a reasonable step for puppies, small dogs, dogs with health conditions, or any larger amount.
Keeping the garden safer
- Put potted plants out of reach, or fence off beds.
- Keep plant tags so you can identify species later.
- Be cautious with mulches, fertilizers, and pesticides, which can add their own risks. Follow the label’s instructions for keeping pets away.
- Teach a solid “leave it” cue.
- Review the plants you already have against the ASPCA list. Our guide to hollyhocks covers another popular garden flower, and the best grass for dogs article covers the lawn itself.
Other plants that are a bigger concern
Many popular garden plants are more dangerous than verbena. Yew and oleander are commonly listed as toxic to dogs, and so are others such as azaleas and foxglove. If your dog eats any of these, treat it as an emergency and call your vet or a poison hotline immediately.
Frequently asked questions
What are some examples of poisonous flowers and plants?
Commonly listed examples include oleander, yew, azalea, foxglove, lily of the valley, sago palm, and autumn crocus. This is not a complete list, so consult the ASPCA database.
Is lemon verbena an invasive plant?
That depends on your region and local regulations. It is usually grown as a tender herb or container plant, and local extension offices can tell you about invasive species in your area.
Is yew poisonous to dogs?
Yes, yew is widely listed as dangerous to dogs. Contact a vet or poison hotline immediately if your dog eats any part of it.
Is oleander poisonous to dogs?
Yes, oleander is widely listed as toxic to dogs and can affect the heart. Treat any ingestion as an emergency.