Jerusalem-oak
Chenopodium botrys
Last reviewed: June 2026
Jerusalem-oak is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (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.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
IL
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Jerusalem-oak is a compact annual herb with fragrant, deeply lobed leaves and inconspicuous greenish flower clusters. This drought-tolerant plant grows quickly in summer heat and provides texture in xeriscaped areas. Despite being native to parts of North America, it can self-seed readily in disturbed soils.
In an HOA neighborhood
Jerusalem-oak takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Looks very weedy and informal
- Self-seeds aggressively
- Flowers are inconspicuous and plant lacks ornamental appeal
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract bees and beetles during the summer months. Seeds provide food for small birds and ground-dwelling wildlife.
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 Jerusalem-oak and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.