Syngonium

Syngonium podophyllum Schott

Popular Houseplant

Pet & Human Safety

Toxic to people and pets

Hazardous parts

flowers, leaves, roots, sap/juice, seeds, stems

Preparation

not applicable: this is not a food plant and no preparation makes it safe to eat or safe for skin contact with the sap

Hazard type

oral/throat irritation from insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, contact dermatitis from the sap/juice

Hazard route

ingestion of any part, or skin contact with the sap/juice

How complete this information is

The safety information on this page is complete as far as our sources go. That is not a statement that the plant is safe.

Toxic to pets

Toxic principle (both sources): insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, the same mechanism as philodendron, pothos, elephant ear, and other aroids already in PlotAndPetal. Clinical signs: oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth/tongue/lips, excessive drooling, vomiting (not in horses), and difficulty swallowing.

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
Mature size: 3-6 feet, shrubby when young, vine-like/climbing or trailing with age (NC State Extension).
Family: Araceae (aroid family)

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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