QUESTION: I’m about to take my potted plants indoors for the winter. Are there are any that could be poisonous to my children or pets? – J.E., Rockford, Ill.
ANSWER: Yes, there are many houseplants that are potentially dangerous. Small children and young animals tend to put everything into their mouths, so it is wise to know what plants could present a hazard.
The castor bean plant is a tropical plant that has strikingly attractive large leaves and red flowers, so it would be tempting to buy it or grow it for a house plant. However, this plant should not be in any household with children or pets. The castor bean is one of the most poisonous plants in the world to humans, with all parts of the plant toxic, and it can be lethal by ingestion of the seeds, flowers, leaves or pollen, or inhalation of the pollen.
This time of year we are planting bulbs, but be careful that they are not mistaken for onions and eaten. Narcissus, daffodils, jonquils and iris can cause nausea, cramps, vomiting and diarrhea. If you pot any bulbs to force blooms, be sure to keep them out of reach. The bulbs probably won’t kill unless large quantities are eaten, but they can certainly make a child or kitty very ill.
All parts of the Christmas rose are poisonous, so you may want to rethink buying any of them to decorate your home for the holidays if you have small children or pets. They may be considered only mildly toxic, but better safe than sorry.
Poinsettias are another holiday plant that many of us purchase. They are considered mildly toxic, but the leaves, sap and stems could cause a very upset tummy if eaten. Chrysanthemums flower heads are mildly toxic as a contact poison for some folks, and will cause skin puffing and itching.
Dieffenbachia, also known as dumb cane, is a favorite foliage houseplant, but it should be kept high out of reach of children and pets. All parts of the plant are poisonous and can cause swelling of the mouth and throat that could be fatal.
Sansevieria, also known as snake plant and mother-in-law’s tongue, is a favorite houseplant because it can withstand a lot of neglect. But its leaves and sap are also toxic. Schefflera is another favorite that is readily available in many local plant outlets but is on the list of poisonous plants as are English ivy, asparagus ferns and kalanchoe.
There are many common houseplants that are dangerous to small children or pets, so it is wise to keep all of your plants out of their reach. If unsure, please research the plant on the internet or call an Extension office for information.
If the unthinkable should happen and you catch your child munching on one of your houseplants, be sure to call the Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222. If your pet chews on a houseplant, you can reach the ASPCA National Animal Poison Control hot line by calling 900-443-0000. Be aware that there is a $55 charge per case that will be billed directly to your phone number.
This week’s answer comes from Sandi Andresen, University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener, Winnebago County. Master Gardeners can be contacted weekdays at the University of Illinois Extension office at 815-986-4357.