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Is Coleus Toxic to Dogs?

☠️ ToxicSeverity: Mild
✅ Cross-checked against veterinary poison-control guidance · Oct 2026 audit
⚠️ Educational info only. If your pet just chewed something and looks unwell, skip the reading and call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (US): (855) 764-7661.
Yes, coleus is mildly toxic to dogs. Chewing the showy leaves typically causes a bout of vomiting and diarrhea.

Also known as: Painted Nettle, Flame Nettle · Coleus scutellarioides (Plectranthus scutellarioides)

What makes it toxic

Irritant essential oils and diterpenoids in leaves and stems that inflame the stomach and intestines.

Warning signs to watch for

Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea and mild lethargy within hours; occasional skin redness from sap contact.

What to do if your dog eats it

Take the plant away, offer water and monitor. Contact your vet if GI signs last more than 24 hours.

Common questions

Is coleus a mint relative with mint-like oils?

Yes, it is in the mint family (as Plectranthus), and its aromatic oils are what irritate the gut. Related Cuban oregano shares the trait.

My dog only sniffed and sneezed — anything wrong?

No. The strong scent can trigger a sneeze but causes no poisoning without chewing.

More plants checked for dogs

Pothos☠️ ToxicYes, pothos is toxic to dogs. Chewing any part of the vine releases calcium oxalate crystals thaAloe Vera⚠️ Mildly ToxicAloe vera is mildly to moderately toxic to dogs. The skin and latex layer of the leaf contain coSpider Plant✅ Non-ToxicNo, spider plants are non-toxic to dogs. A dog that nibbles the arching leaves is not at risk ofEaster Lily⚠️ Mildly ToxicEaster lilies are only mildly toxic to dogs — they usually cause stomach upset, not the fatal kiSago Palm☠️ ToxicYes — sago palm is severely toxic to dogs, with a documented fatality rate around 50% when untreBoston Fern✅ Non-ToxicNo, Boston ferns are non-toxic to dogs. Chewing a frond will not poison your dog.

This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.