You went to the hardware store or garden center and found what you were looking for, or perhaps you were given a cuttings by a friend. Anyone who owns the Schefflera will not want to give it away any time soon. But is it completely harmless?
Is the Schefflera poisonous?
The Schefflera, also known as the Radiant Aralia, is poisonous in all parts because it contains oxalate crystals. Contact or consumption can cause skin irritation, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and other symptoms. Therefore, children and pets should not have access to the plant.
Oxalate crystals make them poisonous
The plant, also known as radiant aralia, belongs to the aralia family and is poisonous in all parts. Since it rarely produces flowers and fruits with seeds, the leaves and shoots are particularly important. These are also poisonous. They contain oxalate crystals.
These toxic substances, which can have an irritating effect upon mere contact with the skin, have the following effects on the body when consumed:
- irritant to mucous membranes
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Loppiness
- Gastrointestinal pain
- Lose appetite
Put out of reach
If you have pets or small children, you should place your Schefflera where children and pets cannot access orcannot reach the plant. It is poisonous not only to humans but also to animals such as cats. Good locations are, for example, on cupboards or hanging in a hanging basket on the ceiling.
Don't panic when it comes to care, but caution is advised
However, the poison cocktail is no reason to panic when in contact with this houseplant! If you are one of those sensitive people who react quickly to stimuli, it is better to wear gloves when caring for the plant and especially when cutting it!
Tip
Although the radiant aralia is poisonous, it is still a 1 A air purifier. It uses its leaves to filter pollutants such as cigarette smoke and formaldehyde from the air.