Hemp dogbane
Apocynum cannabinum
- Plant type
- forb
- Settings
- Riparian and wet ground, Disturbed ground
- Risk
- High risk Our rating from the cited sources.
- Review
- Not yet reviewed by a veterinarian.
Photos
Planned.
How to tell it
Perennial 1 to 6 ft; opposite smooth-edged leaves; reddish stems with milky sap; long thin paired pods (ARS).
Look-alikes: Planned.
What to do on a site walk
- Fence off or remove patches.
- Check any hay.
Why it matters
- Toxic principle
- Cardiac glycosides (cymarin)
- Toxic parts
- Leaves and stems, green or dry
- Basis for our rating
- Chewgrass rating. ARS: small amounts are lethal. Cornell lists goats.
Signs in goats
Fast pulse, dilated pupils, discolored gums, weakness, death (ARS).
If you think an animal has been poisoned, call your vet right away.
Season
Toxic at all times; dried plant in hay stays toxic (ARS).
Sources
- USDA ARS Poisonous Plant Research Lab: Hemp Dogbane
- Second source (poisonousplants.ansci.cornell.edu)
Links last checked: 2026-10-31