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Is Umbrella Plant Toxic to Dogs?

⚠️ Mildly 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.
The umbrella plant (Schefflera) is mildly toxic to dogs. Chewing the leaves causes mouth pain, drooling and vomiting from calcium oxalate crystals.

Also known as: Dwarf Umbrella Tree, Umbrella Tree, Schefflera, Heptapleurum arboricola, Schefflera arboricola · Schefflera arboricola

What makes it toxic

Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals and saponins in the foliage, which irritate the mouth and stomach when chewed and swallowed.

Warning signs to watch for

Oral burning and drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and reduced appetite, usually within minutes to an hour of chewing.

What to do if your dog eats it

Rinse the dog’s mouth with water, remove leftover leaves and offer fresh water. Contact your vet if vomiting continues or the dog seems in pain.

Common questions

How much umbrella plant is too much for a dog?

Even a couple of chewed leaves cause noticeable mouth pain. Serious poisoning is unlikely, but large chewing sessions warrant a vet call.

My dog ate a fallen leaf and seems fine — anything to do?

Offer water and keep an eye out for drooling or a vomit later in the day. Most cases resolve without treatment.

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.