Zamioculcas zamiifolia, the botanically correct name of the houseplant also known as the lucky feather, has only been available from us for a few years. Since then, the robust plant has found a permanent place in German living rooms. This is hardly surprising, as Zamioculcas is considered to be extremely resistant to numerous care errors and is rarely attacked by diseases or pests. However, the succulent plant native to East Africa is slightly poisonous.
Is the Zamioculcas plant poisonous?
The Zamioculcas, also known as the lucky feather, is slightly toxic to humans and animals because it contains calcium oxalate and oxalic acid. Contact can cause redness, swelling and burning, but severe poisoning is rare.
Zamioculcas slightly toxic to humans and animals
The lucky feather belongs to the arum family and as such - like so many members of this family - is poisonous. All parts of the plant contain calcium oxalate and oxalic acid, which cause redness and swelling as well as a burning sensation when they come into contact with the skin or mucous membranes. Both people and pets react to these toxic components.
Medical treatment is rarely necessary for symptoms of poisoning
However, the poisonous effect of the lucky feather firstly sets in immediately and secondly only lasts for a very short time. If a child or pet tries to eat any part of the plant, they will quickly abandon it due to the burning and bitter mouthfeel. For this reason, serious poisonings with Zamioculcas are not yet known. Problems can only arise if the plant sap comes into contact with the eyes. In this case, rinse your eyes thoroughly with clean water. A visit to the doctor is usually only necessary if the discomfort persists for a long time.
Tip
To protect yourself from the poisonous plant sap, you should wear gloves (€9.00 on Amazon) as a precaution when handling the lucky feather (for example when repotting and cutting off leaf stems) and possibly come into contact with the leaf sap Wash exposed skin thoroughly.