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Is Autumn Crocus Toxic to Dogs?

☠️ ToxicSeverity: Severe
✅ Cross-checked against veterinary poison-control guidance · Oct 2026 audit
⚠️ Educational info only. If your pet just chewed something and looks unwell, skip the reading and call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (US): (855) 764-7661.
Yes, autumn crocus is severely toxic to dogs and ingestion is an emergency. Colchicine in the whole plant can cause multi-organ failure.

Also known as: Meadow Saffron, Naked Lady · Colchicum autumnale

What makes it toxic

Colchicine, an antimitotic poison concentrated in the bulbs and flowers. It blocks cell division in the intestinal lining, bone marrow and kidneys.

Warning signs to watch for

Drooling, vomiting, watery or bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain within hours, then delayed kidney failure, marrow suppression and seizures over the following days.

What to do if your dog eats it

Treat any ingestion as an emergency. Go straight to an emergency vet, bring a photo or piece of the plant, and do not wait for symptoms before seeking care.

Common questions

My dog dug up an autumn crocus bulb — what now?

Bulbs are the most concentrated part of the plant. This is an ER situation even if the dog looks fine; inducing vomiting at a clinic early greatly improves the outlook.

How much autumn crocus is lethal to a dog?

Small amounts have caused serious poisoning, and the exact lethal dose varies. Do not gamble on quantity — any confirmed ingestion needs emergency evaluation.

More plants checked for dogs

Pothos☠️ ToxicYes, pothos is toxic to dogs. Chewing any part of the vine releases calcium oxalate crystals thaAloe Vera⚠️ Mildly ToxicAloe vera is mildly to moderately toxic to dogs. The skin and latex layer of the leaf contain coSpider Plant✅ Non-ToxicNo, spider plants are non-toxic to dogs. A dog that nibbles the arching leaves is not at risk ofEaster Lily⚠️ Mildly ToxicEaster lilies are only mildly toxic to dogs — they usually cause stomach upset, not the fatal kiSago Palm☠️ ToxicYes — sago palm is severely toxic to dogs, with a documented fatality rate around 50% when untreBoston Fern✅ Non-ToxicNo, Boston ferns are non-toxic to dogs. Chewing a frond will not poison your dog.

This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.