Once established, the loosestrife soon proliferates with the help of its underground runners. Nevertheless, it looks attractive with its golden yellow, funnel-shaped flowers around an upright stem. Is it poisonous?
Is loosestrife poisonous to people and animals?
The loosestrife is not poisonous in small quantities, but if consumed in large quantities, mild symptoms of poisoning such as mucous membrane irritation, nausea and gastrointestinal pain can occur. Loosestrife is not suitable for small animals such as hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits.
The quantity makes the poison
The loosestrife is not poisonous in small quantities. Only if a large amount is consumed can mild symptoms of poisoning such as irritation of the mucous membranes, nausea and gastrointestinal pain occur. Therefore: Enjoy in moderation.
This plant was previously used as a medicinal plant. It helps against inflammation. If you want to use the plant, you can, for example, pick some flowers and use them as decoration to garnish dishes such as salads.
How to recognize this plant:
- Resembles evening primrose
- firm, upright, slender growth
- Leaves are almost sessile
- opposite leaf arrangement
- golden yellow bright flowers
- Flowers: fivefold, radially symmetric, hermaphrodite
- Flowering period: June to August
Tip
Caution is advised with small animals such as hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits. You shouldn't offer them the loosestrife to eat!
