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Name That Plant!

My dog ate the leaves of this plant.. what is it?

11 years ago

Hi all,

My dog, like many others, occasionally eats grass or plant leaves. Apparently scientists still don't really understand why dogs do this.. (the best answer ever is that maybe they like the taste).

Anyway, my dog at the leaves of the plant in the image attached. I think he has eaten these leaves before.. sometimes he throws up (vomits) and other times he doesn't.

Does anyone know the name of this plant?

The bush was about 30-40cm high (1 foot) and about 60-80cm in diameter (2 feet) with purple bell shaped flowers.

Featured Answer

naturedan
Original Author

11 years ago

Thank you very much for the replies.
I am doing more reading on comfrey and it is very interesting to see :
1) the controversial debates regarding comfrey toxicity vs remedy
2) how many other people's dogs (and horses, cows, etc.. ) also eat comfrey

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Comments (6)

carol23_gw
11 years ago
Looks like comfrey, Symphytum.

Here is a link that might be useful: Comfrey
User
11 years ago
According to my poisons list, Comfrey can cause liver damage in dogs. It might be better if he didn't eat it anymore.
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oliveoyl3
11 years ago
great for compost pile or as mulch
we feed to our chickens who eat it the day after when it has wilted
high mineral & protein
cut about 4x a year

Beware: deep roots, spreads by seed & underground
HU-179266975
3 years ago
So many negative comments on this healing plant. Yes, the ”root” should only be applied topically and should not be ingested, however the leaf is used in many cultures as tea when dried. it has many medicinal properties. It has been historically know to aid with stomach issues as well as bronchial issues. Please use responsibly and within reason. Like any herb, it should be discontinued when the issue is resolved.
gardengal48 (PNW Z8/9)
3 years ago
HU-bunch of numbers, the discussion only pertains to comfrey's reaction with pets, dogs specifically, and dogs/pets that may ingest it accidentally. It is very different when prepared carefully, with the proper dosage and administered by a naturopathic vet than if the dog consumes parts of a growing plant!!

And comments about its benefits to humans really have no bearing on this discussion.

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