I know this is a very random question. I am landscaping this spring, have a shady section behind my pond where I may use a very wonderful plant called a walking iris. I think it can do well in Houston but I read a post that it may be toxic to dogs. I lost a dog this year to a Sago palm seed pod, a terrible experience to say the least. Anyway, happy holidays!
Brett
walking iris
There are a lot of plants in the garden toxic to dogs... and saddy dogs like to try the plants. I dont know about walking iris - just they are a great plant but must live in the house in a pot up here.
These lists should probably be used as guides only. If in doubt, it's best to err on the safe side and keep the plant away from your dog
http://lowchensaustralia.com/health/pplantsnon.htm
http://petloverstips.com/ForTheLoveoftheDog/tips/poisonous-or-toxic-to-our-dogs-and-pets
http://209.85.173.104/search?q=cache:Jm7HWvgAwPkJ:wric.ucdavis.edu/information/poisonous.pdf+is+walking+iris+toxic+to+dogs&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=24&gl=us
I grow Neomarica gracilis and N. longifolia. I have never encountered a problem with pets. Like MitchF ~ in this zone they need winter protection.
You know your pets best. There is a potential problem with little children and small or destructive dogs with any plants and I would say it is best to err on the side of caution.
edited to add ~ I know you are landscaping but this can be a pretty plant in hanging baskets if you truly love it. Just a thought.
This message was edited Dec 23, 2007 10:15 AM
Thanks. I like the Lowhen link, I have only seen that breed at a dog show. I have a dandie dinmont terrier, they love to get into just about anything that will fit in their mouth.
Anyway, I also don't know if the waking iris is a safe bet even in 9a, the more I read. We were down to 35 last night, getting close to a freeze. I am looking for something varigated to contrast existing iris under giant timber bamboo. That was just one idea after seeing it recently. There are tons of possibilites for a nice, evergreen varigated, shade happy plant I am sure.
I've grown Neomarica gracilis for years and its never been a frost problem. It's in a shady location, even in winter--I think good drainage is more important with it in the winter. It got down to 32 here last night.