Is Calla Lily Houseplant Poisonous?
As an experienced gardening and landscaping expert, I can provide you with detailed information about the toxicity of calla lilies. Calla lilies, also known as Zantedeschia aethiopica, are popular household and garden plants due to their elegant and striking appearance. However, it is important to be aware that calla lilies can be toxic if ingested.
Calla lilies contain microscopic needle-like crystals known as calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals are released when the plant is damaged or chewed on, and they can cause immediate burning, pain, and irritation if they come into contact with the skin, mucous membranes, or eyes. The crystals essentially act as tiny irritants, leading to discomfort and inflammation.
Ingesting calla lilies can be particularly concerning, especially for curious children who may be tempted to taste or eat parts of the plant. If ingested, the calcium oxalate crystals can cause similar burning and irritation in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. This can result in symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, drooling, nausea, and vomiting.
It is worth noting that severe or life-threatening symptoms from calla lily ingestion are rare. Most cases involve mild to moderate discomfort and irritation, which usually resolve on their own without medical intervention. However, it is still important to seek medical advice if you suspect someone has ingested parts of a calla lily, especially if they are experiencing severe symptoms or have a known allergy to plants in the Araceae family.
To prevent incidents, it is advisable to keep calla lilies out of reach of children and pets. If you have calla lilies in your garden, ensure that they are planted in areas where they are not easily accessible to curious hands or mouths. Additionally, always wear gloves when handling calla lilies to minimize the risk of coming into contact with the calcium oxalate crystals.
If contact with calla lilies occurs, it is important to promptly wash the affected area with soap and water. If eye exposure occurs, flushing the eyes with water for several minutes is recommended. In cases of ingestion, provide the person with water to drink and monitor their symptoms. If symptoms worsen or persist, seeking medical attention is advised.
While calla lilies are common household and garden plants, it is important to be aware of their potential toxicity. The release of calcium oxalate crystals can cause immediate burning, pain, and irritation when in contact with the skin, mucous membranes, or eyes. Ingestion of calla lilies can lead to similar symptoms in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. However, severe or life-threatening symptoms are rare. By taking precautions and being informed about the potential risks, you can enjoy the beauty of calla lilies while minimizing the chances of any adverse effects.
