The ASPCA lists gardenia, Gardenia jasminoides, as toxic to dogs, cats and horses. It names genioposide and gardenoside as the toxic principles and lists mild vomiting and/or diarrhea and hives as signs. The same plant is entered as cape jasmine, which is why the name “jasmine” can mislead owners of true-jasmine plants.
What the ASPCA lists
| Item | Gardenia entry | Cape Jasmine entry |
|---|---|---|
| Botanical name | Gardenia jasminoides | Gardenia jasminoides |
| Dogs, cats, horses | Toxic | Toxic |
| Toxic principles | Genioposide, gardenoside | Genioposide, gardenoside |
| Signs | Mild vomiting and/or diarrhea, hives | Mild vomiting and/or diarrhea, hives |
Gardenia and true jasmine
The ASPCA: Gardenia and ASPCA: Cape Jasmine entries describe the same species. True jasmine, Jasminum, is listed as non-toxic; see Is Jasmine Toxic to Cats and Dogs?. For gardenia growing, see Gardenia Indoor Care.
What the entries do not cover
They give no quantities and do not cover cut flowers or fallen petals separately. The ASPCA says consumption of any plant material may cause vomiting and stomach upset, so keep pets away from the plant. If a pet has eaten some, contact a veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
Frequently asked questions
Is gardenia toxic to cats and dogs?
The ASPCA lists gardenia as toxic to dogs, cats and horses.
What are the signs?
Mild vomiting and/or diarrhea, and hives, according to the ASPCA.
Is cape jasmine the same plant?
The ASPCA enters it as Gardenia jasminoides, the same botanical name.
Sources read for this page
Last reviewed 15 October 2026. Written by Md. Firozur Rahman. This page gives general guidance and cannot diagnose a plant from a description; see the Disclaimer.
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