California Veratrum
Veratrum californicum
Last reviewed: June 2026
California Veratrum is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the Cornell University Poisonous Plants Database (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
California Veratrum is listed as toxic to grazing livestock (cattle, sheep, and goats) at a severe level by the USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab). This is a livestock indicator and is separate from pet toxicity.
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
24"–72" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 6 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Veratrum californicum is a tall, dramatic perennial with large pleated leaves and towering spikes of small white flowers in summer. This moisture-loving plant creates bold architectural presence but requires consistent water and can be toxic to humans and animals.
In an HOA neighborhood
California Veratrum takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely toxic to humans and pets
- Requires high water needs
Wildlife value
The tall flower spikes attract bees and flies during the summer blooming period. However, all parts of the plant are highly toxic, limiting its wildlife browsing value.
Common questions
- How much sun does California Veratrum need?
- California Veratrum grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does California Veratrum bloom?
- California Veratrum blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is California Veratrum native?
- California Veratrum (Veratrum californicum) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 6 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is California Veratrum toxic to dogs?
- Yes. California Veratrum is listed as toxic to dogs by the Cornell University Poisonous Plants Database (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is California Veratrum toxic to cats?
- Yes. California Veratrum is listed as toxic to cats by the Cornell University Poisonous Plants Database (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is California Veratrum toxic to livestock?
- California Veratrum is listed as toxic to grazing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats (severe severity) by the USDA PLANTS Database. This is separate from pet (dog and cat) toxicity.
- What pollinators does California Veratrum attract?
- California Veratrum draws bees and flies.
- Is California Veratrum HOA-friendly?
- California Veratrum takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like California Veratrum and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
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