Is the popular single leaf poisonous? What you should look out for at Spatiphyllum
- Toxins in the leaf
- Effect on people
- Toxicity to pets
The leaf belongs to the genus Spatiphyllum and is a decorative houseplant that convinces with easy-care properties. The rich green leaves shine all year round, in addition to elegant blossoms twice a year. Since the leaf belongs to the family of the arum family, this is poisonous. The plant contains toxins that irritate the mucous membranes and can cause damage especially to small children and pets.
The one-leaf belongs to the plant genus Spatiphyllum and is alternatively called the leaf flag. This plant comprises about 50 different species, with numerous breeding forms. The large leaves shine in a dark green, the showy flowers are mostly white, they bloom in both spring and autumn. Due to its decorative properties, the single leaf has established itself as a popular houseplant. However, the flower belongs to the family of the arum family, which are known for their toxins. Therefore, care should be taken when dealing with children and pets, as they often nibble on houseplants and can also swallow them.
Toxins in the leaf
The single leaf is also known as the leaf flag and adorns many living spaces in the local latitudes. The Spatiphyllum convinces with both bright green leaves and attractive flowers, the plant even blooms twice a year. Depending on the cultivated form, either in a bright white color, in delicate yellow tones or in elegant, green shades. However, many hobby gardeners are not aware that this decorative houseplant is poisonous. Therefore, the plant juice should come neither in contact with humans nor with pets.
- In Spatiphyllum both leaves and stems are poisonous
- Contains pungent and toxic oxalic acid
- Also has insoluble calcium oxalate crystals
- Toxins irritate the mucous membrane, causing it to swell up
- Consumption causes stomach and intestinal complaints
- Afterwards convulsions show up
- Contact causes burning, itching and inflammation on the skin
- Reactions are temporarily painful
- However, these usually do not cause serious damage
Effect on people
An adult would not normally consume parts of a houseplant. However, especially small children are at risk, as they try out of curiosity many things and put all sorts of things in the mouth. But external contact also poses certain risks to the health of the children. For this reason, the Spatiphyllum should not be placed in the nursery and be unreachable in the living rooms for the offspring. Poisoning is quickly manifested by certain symptoms and reactions.
- Skin contact and consumption must be avoided at all costs
- Children are sensitive to the sap
- This can also cause allergies
- Strong salivation, diarrhea and vomiting indicate poisoning
- In case of extreme reactions seek medical advice in case of emergency
- Place houseplant in hard to reach location
- Ideal is a high hanging hanging basket
- Alternatively put on unattainable furniture
Tip: If the children are older, they should be adequately informed as protection against the toxicity of the inset.
Toxicity to pets
The single leaf is not only toxic to humans, even pets show
Poisoning symptoms, both ingestion and in contact. As a rule, the larger pets show no interest in the houseplants. However, their offspring is very curious and likes to nibble on everything. Even the herbivores among the pets are endangered, as these naturally feed on greens. Therefore, these animals must necessarily be kept away from Spatiphyllum.
- Toxic to dogs and cats
- Rabbits, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and birds are also affected
- Symptoms include heavy salivation, vomiting and diarrhea
- Consumption leads to difficulty swallowing
- In case of extreme reactions, consult a veterinarian in case of emergency
- Do not leave pets close to the sheet without supervision
- Select location unreachable for animals
