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Podophyllum peltatum

Family: Berberidaceae

Native
Pollinator Plant

Pet & Human Safety

Toxic to people and pets

Hazardous parts

leaves, roots, seeds, stems, unripe fruit

Preparation

Not a food plant; no preparation guidance is given.

Hazard type

poisonous if ingested: NC State lists salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, excitement, headache, fever, lethargy, panting and rarely coma; toxic principle podophyllin (podophyllotoxin), severe contact dermatitis: contact with leaves or roots causes severe redness, irritation and skin ulcers, especially to the eyes (NC State); wear protective gloves

Hazard route

ingestion, skin, eyes

How complete this information is

We have not researched the safety of this plant yet.

Toxic to pets

ASPCA lists toxic to dogs, cats and horses; toxic principle podophyllin; signs vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, panting, rarely coma, and redness and skin ulcers on contact. NC State also tags it a problem for cats, dogs and horses. The sources agree.

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

Look-alike warning

Could be mistaken for Other plants with a similar name or look. To tell them apart: Match on the scientific name, Podophyllum peltatum, not on the common name.. NC State says this plant is often confused with Hydrophyllum canadense and Medeola virginiana.

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: USDA 3a-8b (NC State).
Light: Partial shade to deep shade
Water needs: moderate
Mature size: Height 1 ft to 1 ft 6 in, width 9 in to 1 ft (NC State). Leaves up to about 12 inches across.
Where it comes from: South East Canada to Central and Southeastern U.S.A. (NC State); distribution lists Nova Scotia, Ontario and Quebec and many eastern and central US states including FL and TX.

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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