Rusty staggerbush

Lyonia ferruginea

Family: Ericaceae

Pet & Human Safety

People: Not researchedPets: Toxic to pets

Hazardous parts

Not yet checked.

Preparation

Not yet checked.

Hazard type

Not yet checked.

Hazard route

Not yet checked.

How complete this information is

We have not researched the safety of this plant yet.

Toxic to pets

No pet source names this plant. Its relative Lyonia lucida is flagged by NC State as High poison severity and a problem for cats, dogs and horses, so treat this shrub with caution until a verdict is set. Basis: cautious genus-extended (ASPCA Lyonia spp. genus page).

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

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Care

Hardiness zones: Not checked yet
Where it comes from: Native to Florida per the USF Atlas (wetland status FACU); the UF/IFAS 4-H page gives range as Florida, Georgia and South Carolina.

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

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