Can Hibiscus Flowers Hurt Dogs If They Eat the Blooms?

The colorful hibiscus blossom is the state flower of Hawaii.

The colorful hibiscus blossom is the state flower of Hawaii.

There are two types of hibiscus (Hibiscus spp.), namely the tropical hibiscus and the hardy hibiscus, both of which produce similar, showy flowers. Tropical hibiscus grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 11, while hardy hibiscus thrive in zones 5 through 9, depending on the species and cultivar. While some species may not harm your pup, those such as Hibiscus syriacus and its blooms are toxic to dogs if eaten.


The hibiscus is known for its funnel-shaped flowers that come in a variety of colors, including shades of red, white, pink, yellow, orange, purple, brown, gray and blue; the flowers even come in multicolored combinations. The plant grows best in moist, well-drained and slightly acidic soil with full sun or partial shade. The hibiscus can grow up to 15 feet in height, depending on the species or cultivar, according to the National Gardening Association. Hibiscus can be perennials, annuals, shrubs or trees. Tropical varieties fare well in tropical or subtropical climates, while hardy varieties can survive in slightly cooler, but not freezing weather. Hibiscus can also be grown as potted plants indoors in all climates.


Some types of hibiscus are toxic to dogs while others are not, according to a report on The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals specifically lists the hardy hibiscus, Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus), as toxic to your canine companions if ingested, although the flowers are considered generally safe for humans to eat, according to the University of Arkansas, Division of Agriculture Research & Extension. Rose of Sharon grows in USDA zones 5 through 8. The reason why this and other hibiscus are toxic to dogs is unknown.


If Fido ingests the flowers from a harmful species of hibiscus, such as the Rose of Sharon, expect vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, drooling and a lack of appetite, warns the ASPCA. Dehydration could result as well, which is why you need to get Fido to the vet for supportive care. Poisoning occurs when your dog eats a large amount of hibiscus flowers at once, not over time, so a small nibble usually won't produce much more than some mild gastrointestinal upset.


While the Rose of Sharon is specifically named by the ASPCA as being toxic to dogs, other species may cause toxic reactions as well, especially the flowers, although poisoning is usually mild. For safety's sake, keep your hibiscus plants, both inside and outside, away from the reach of your pooch. Eating plant matter, even nontoxic flowers, can cause gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea and vomiting if your dog ingests a large amount of it. Prevent issues by monitoring your dog around any plants, especially the hibiscus.

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