Wisteria Poisonous

Transform Your Garden into a Personal Paradise!

Is Wisteria Poisonous?

Yes. Wisteria is toxic if chewed or swallowed—especially the seeds and pods. The usual reaction is gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea) in people and pets. Keep children, dogs, and cats away from fallen pods.

  • Most toxic parts: Seeds and pods > bark > leaves/flowers.
  • Who’s at risk: Children (curiosity), dogs (chewing pods), cats (leaf nibbling).
  • If ingested (Australia): Call the Poisons Information Centre – 13 11 26 or seek veterinary care immediately.
  • First aid: Rinse mouth, remove remaining plant material, offer small sips of water; do not induce vomiting unless directed by a professional.

Toxicity varies with amount eaten and individual sensitivity. Most exposures cause mild to moderate stomach upset, but large ingestions—especially of seeds—can be more serious. Rapid assessment is always recommended.

491446140_674793161918989_6916085125107699157_n
485177647_18014309201701100_8086596852297201472_n

Toxic Parts, Symptoms & What to Do

Key compounds: Wisteria plant material contains irritant lectins and other glycosides; the seeds and pods have the highest concentrations.

People (Adults & Children)

ExposureTypical SymptomsAction
Chewing/ingesting seeds or podsNausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhoea; occasionally headache, dizzinessRinse mouth; offer small sips of water; call 13 11 26 for advice; seek medical care if symptoms develop
Skin/eye contact (sap)Mild irritation, rednessRinse skin/eyes with running water 10–15 minutes; seek care if irritation persists

Pets (Dogs & Cats)

ExposureTypical SymptomsAction
Chewing seeds/pods, stemsDrooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain; lethargy in larger ingestionsContact a vet promptly. Do not give food/meds unless instructed. Bring a sample of the plant if possible.

Timeframe: Symptoms typically appear within a few hours of ingestion. Early advice improves outcomes.

490576791_18063760598506297_6854046542199825242_n (1)
491433669_1188377892752918_8288617179237831777_n

Prevention, Safe Handling & FAQ

Practical Prevention

  • Pod patrol: Collect and bin fallen pods and seeds during/after flowering.
  • Site smart: Avoid training vines over children’s play areas or dog runs.
  • Teach & label: Let kids know not to eat garden plants; label toxic species.
  • Gloves & hygiene: Wear gloves when pruning; wash hands and tools after handling.
  • Secure prunings: Bag and dispose of pruned material; don’t compost where pets can access.

FAQ (No Click Needed)

Is wisteria poisonous to humans?
Yes—especially the seeds and pods. Most cases cause stomach upset; seek advice if ingested.

Is wisteria toxic to dogs and cats?
Yes. Dogs often chew pods; cats may nibble leaves. Vomiting and diarrhoea are common—contact your vet.

Are the flowers poisonous?
They’re less toxic than seeds/pods but can still cause gastrointestinal upset if eaten.

What should I do right away if someone eats wisteria?
Rinse the mouth, remove plant material, offer small sips of water, and call the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26) for guidance.

Can wisteria be planted in family or pet-friendly gardens?
Yes—if managed carefully. Choose locations away from play zones, collect pods promptly, and supervise pets.

Will composting wisteria spread toxicity?
Normal composting breaks down plant tissues, but keep prunings/seed pods out of areas pets can access during decomposition.

Recommended Products

Sale!

The Grow Blog: News, Tips, & Stories

Cart (0 items)

No products in the cart.