Decorative plants, especially those associated with Christmas decorations, are very popular with the French. However, they must be kept away from children and pets.
Each year, the Poison Control Centers receive between 60 and 80 calls for cases of holly berry poisoning. A phenomenon particularly marked at the time of the end of year celebrations. Here are the most poisonous decorative plants.
Holly
With its small leaves edged with prickles, holly announces the color: it should not be eaten. However, children are attracted to its small red berries which they pick up when they fall to the ground. Ingestion of one or two berries will cause some minor digestive disturbances (nausea, vomiting) according to theConsidered. But beware, eating a larger quantity can be much more problematic: significant salivation, persistent diarrhea, even drowsiness or convulsions. The berries are to be kept away from children but also from dogs and cats who could potentially end up in a coma.
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Le gui
Mistletoe branches are often used to decorate interiors in December. Its leaves are much more poisonous than its white berries. In small quantities, the berries do not present any real dangers. However, ANSES warns against ingestion in larger quantities: cardiac or neurological disorders may be observed.
For animals (dogs, cats, sheep, horses, cows), mistletoe is even more dangerous: the leaves are potentially fatal if eaten.
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The Poinsettia
Also called “Christmas star”, the poinsettia is recognizable by its leaves which are adorned with red or lighter colors at the end of the year. This decorative plant can cause minor digestive disorders in children if ingested. But in pets, chewing on several leaves or stems can have more serious consequences (digestive disorders, excessive salivation).
If a child eats one of these plants, ANSES recommends passing a wet cloth over his mouth and avoiding giving him water to drink. You must then contact a Poison Control Center and be sure to keep a photo of the plant for easy identification.
For animal poisoning, call a veterinary poison control center.
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