Spreading Dogbane
Apocynum androsaemifolium
Last reviewed: June 2026
Spreading Dogbane 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 × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 40 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bitter-root is a perennial that produces small, fragrant pink and white bell-shaped flowers from June through August. This low-maintenance plant grows 1-3 feet tall with a neat, upright habit and attractive oval leaves that turn yellow in fall.
In an HOA neighborhood
Spreading Dogbane is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, foundation, backyard only.
- Can spread by underground rhizomes
- May look sparse in early spring
Wildlife value
The fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles throughout the summer months. Seeds provide food for birds and small wildlife in late summer and fall.
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 Spreading Dogbane and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.