Summer Wildflowers: Dogbane

Jun 1

Dogbane is an important plant to be able to identify - as its name suggests, this plant is notable for its toxicity to humans and other animals, including dogs.

Close-up of the flowers on a spreading dogbane plant; white, bell-like flowers with pink veins atop opposite leaves. — *Photo Credit: Tony Frates,* *Flickr*

Spreading dogbane (Apocynum androsaemifolium) is most easily identified by its opposite, oval-like pinnate leaves; it has bell-like white petals with red or pink veins. I often observe dogbane with a reddish stem, but I wouldn’t suggest basing your identification of that trait.

A spreading dogbane plant without flowers; picture included to show opposite, oval-like pinnate leaves and reddish stem. — *Photo Credit:* *PictureThis*

Dogbane is found on slopes and hillsides or open conifer woods from June to September. Watch out for this plant, as its poisonous, milky white sap is toxic - if you suspect your dog has ingested dogbane, contact a veterinarian immediately.