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Toxic plants

Wed, 12/19/2018 - 12:00 am

Green Side Up

It seems useful to periodically review the plants that we have in our landscapes and in pots in our houses that can be dangerous to pets and family. Plants at the garden center and in the landscape are not labeled with caution labels. Many of the weeds and other native plants have been known for centuries to be toxic and have been used for that reason.

Exposure to plant toxins can occur through eating or touching the leaves or berries. Flowers, roots and stems can also provide a route for exposure. Contact with a plant’s sap or juice may also cause toxic symptoms, particularly of the skin. Less obvious methods of exposure, especially for small children and pets, are eating the soil or drinking water from the plant tray. In many cases the individual does not even have to come in contact with the plant to be adversely affected. Cases have been reported of individuals developing symptoms after being exposed to smoke from burning plants. Poison ivy, poison oak and oleander have been identified as causing a problem from being exposed to their smoke. The severity of many reactions is highly dependent upon the individual’s allergic sensitivities,

“Stinging“ nettles contain formic acid, which is the same compound that causes the “sting” of an ant. The nightshade family has a reputation for containing poisons. Those in that family include the native plants silverleaf nightshade, Jimson weed and ground cherry. Other plants in the nightshade family include tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, Angel trumpet and tobacco. Besides death the nightshades can cause hallucinations, rapid heart rate, elevated body temperature and blurred vision. A small dog or puppy can become very ill or die from chewing up a tomato plant. Fortunately for those of us who like catsup on our French fries, the fruits are not the toxic parts of the plants. A potato tuber left exposed to the sun will develop a green area that is toxic. Maybe that is why my mother always kept her potatoes under the sink.

As decorations are hung for the Christmas season, it is beneficial to remember that mistletoe berries, holly berries and the milky, latex sap of Poinsettias are all to be avoided. Although the bad reputation that Poinsettias have acquired has not been verified by research, it is still not recommended to ingest any part of the plant.

The oleander is considered by some to be the most toxic plant on earth. All parts of the plant are poisonous. A single ingested leaf can kill a child. Symptoms of oleander poisoning may include diarrhea, vomiting, intense stomach pain, drowsiness, dizziness, irregular heartbeat and death.

The first step in safety with plants is awareness. Typical symptoms of poisoning from most plants include gastrointestinal distress, rashes, erratic behavior and breathing difficulty. All cases of suspected poisoning should be immediately reported to a physician, the emergency room or the Poison Control Center. Plants that are potentially toxic include azalea, caladium, dieffenbachia, English ivy, unripe lantana berries, Cardinal flower, Castor bean (as few as three seeds can kill a small child), daphne and pothos (commonly just called just “ivy”). This not an exhaustive list of poisonous plants but should serve as a warning to be vigilant, especially when small children and pets are around.

It always pays to have the phone numbers of your family physician, the local hospital emergency room, and the National Poison Control Center posted in a conspicuous spot and in your cell phone. The Poison Control Centers number is 1-800-222-1222. They can advise the best action to take. If possible, it is most helpful to be able to identify the poison taken and the amount. The Poison Control Center can be called for any suspected poisoning, not just those caused by plants.

An obvious but often overlooked source of poisons are the herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers we use. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Use and store these materials away from tiny hands and paws.