Content
- Is Ficus benjamini poisonous to humans and animals?
- Slightly toxic to children
- Extremely toxic to pets
- Tips
The Ficus Benjamini is light for humans, highly toxic for animals
Is Ficus benjamini poisonous to humans and animals?
In the family household security is very important, especially if a baby, toddler or pet belongs to it. Included in the precautionary measures is the choice of houseplants, as many a poisonous specimen can be hidden here. Read here how the poison content of a birch fig is.
Slightly toxic to children
A Benjamini contains phytochemicals, such as flavonoids and furocoumarins. These trigger poisoning symptoms when consumed. While in adults the toxic dose is not reached due to the bitter taste, a baby or toddler is more likely to be threatened. It is enough to lick a leaf and place it in the mouth to cause the following symptoms:
If you suspect that your baby has eaten from the leaves, please consult the pediatrician immediately. Take a few leaves as a sample so that the doctor can immediately initiate the correct countermeasures.
Extremely toxic to pets
While the contents of a birch fig are classified as slightly toxic to humans, this does not apply to pets. Dogs, cats and rodents already suffer from severe signs of intoxication and even respiratory paralysis after taking in even the smallest amounts of leaves.
Therefore, please choose a location out of the reach of animals or choose a harmless alternative as a houseplant. Never use clippings from a birch fig as green feed for rabbits.
Tips
Before pruning a Ficus benjamina, please take precautions against the sticky milk juice. Put on gloves and old clothes, because possible stains are almost indelible. Ideally, cut back a birch fig in the garden to protect work surfaces and floors from irreversible soiling.