The gentian bush, also known as the gentian tree or potato tree, belongs to the nightshade family, like all plants in the “Solanum” family. Almost all members of this genus are poisonous. Caution is therefore advised when it comes to children and animals in the household and when caring for them.
Is the gentian bush poisonous to people and animals?
The gentian bush is poisonous because all parts of the plant contain the toxin solanine. If leaves, flowers or fruits are consumed, symptoms of poisoning such as cardiac arrhythmias, delirium, respiratory paralysis and circulatory collapse can occur. Caution is advised around children and animals.
The toxin solanine
All parts of the gentian bush contain solanine, which affects the leaves, flowers and the fruits that ripen from it.
Solanine has an intoxicating and mind- altering effect. Even slight overdoses can lead to severe symptoms of poisoning:
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Delirium
- Respiratory paralysis
- Circulatory collapse
Just contact with the leaves can cause mild poisoning. Therefore, when cutting and other care work, always wear gloves (€9.00 on Amazon) and make sure that you do not touch your face with your hands.
If poisoning occurs, see a doctor immediately
If you, your family members or pets have ingested parts of a plant, you should immediately call the poison control center and consult a doctor or veterinarian.
Tips & Tricks
The small ball-like fruits are a special temptation for children. If you have children in the house, you should place the gentian tree out of reach or break the fruit straight away.
