How poisonous is the grape hyacinth?

Content

• How poisonous is the grape hyacinth?
• A small danger to humans
  
• Symptoms of poisoning
  
• Pets are at risk
  
• Tips & Tricks

Children should rather be kept away from the poisonous grape hyacinth

How poisonous is the grape hyacinth?

Among the spring flowering plants there are numerous poisonous specimens. So also the grape hyacinth? Is this onion plant, also known as perl hyacinth, poisonous or harmless?

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A small danger to humans

Grape hyacinths are not very dangerous for humans. They are considered slightly toxic. But parents of small children should take care. Toddlers like to put plants in their mouths and attract the beautiful flowers of the grape hyacinths.

Either you do not plant any grape hyacinths or you never leave your children unattended near them. Normally strong poisonings are unlikely, as this shrub tastes unappetizing and only larger amounts consumed lead to symptoms of poisoning.

Symptoms of poisoning

While contact with the hands or other parts of the body may cause irritation to the skin (redness, itching) in sensitive people, eating larger amounts has more serious consequences such as vomiting, stomach aches, cramps and shortness of breath. Responsible are poisonous saponins as well as oxalatraphides.

Pets are at risk

While people are usually less at risk, the risk to pets like cats is much greater. Especially young animals, who are inexperienced, like to nibble on foreign plants. Whether the flowers, leaves, seeds or onions - all parts are poisonous.

For cats, the grape hyacinth is highly toxic. The avoidance strategy (not planting at all) is the best. Otherwise, you should go to a vet immediately in case of poisoning. The following symptoms may indicate poisoning of the animal:

Tips & Tricks

To avoid skin irritation, as a precaution you should wear gloves when handling grape hyacinths, for example when cutting and planting. You can relieve skin irritation by washing and cooling the affected area.