The very decorative spider flower is one of the poisonous ornamental plants, but it does not pose any particular danger. The seeds in particular contain mustard oil glycosides and alkaloid-like substances. Consumption can lead to gastrointestinal problems.
Is the spider flower poisonous and what precautions are necessary?
The spider flower is poisonous; the seeds in particular contain dangerous mustard oil glycosides and alkaloid-like substances. Consumption causes gastrointestinal distress and skin contact can cause dermatitis in sensitive people. Poisonous seedpods should be removed to protect children.
As a countermeasure, taking activated charcoal (€7.00 on Amazon) is often sufficient. If large quantities are consumed, gastric lavage may be advisable. In sensitive people, skin contact with the spider flower can occasionally cause dermatitis or skin irritation. An ointment containing cortisone helps very quickly here. As a rule, these symptoms of poisoning occur rather rarely.
The seeds may seem very tempting to children because they grow in small pods. This might remind you of peas. It is therefore best to remove wilted flowers before the poisonous seed pods form.
The most important things in brief:
- poisonous
- Consumption leads to gastrointestinal problems
- may cause skin irritation
Tip
Remove the poisonous seed pods so that they do not pose a danger to small children.
