Anthurium andreanum is rarely found as room decoration, but is extremely popular as an exotic and long-lasting cut flower. If you were given a bouquet as a gift or gave yourself a bouquet containing the striking flowers and you have children or animals in your household, you should exercise a little caution.
Is the Anthurium andreanum plant poisonous?
Anthurium andreanum contains oxalic acid and insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and minor burns if touched or consumed. To avoid accidents, you should wear gloves and keep the plant away from children and pets.
The greater flamingo flower is slightly poisonous
Like all arum plants, anthurium andreanum also contains:
- Oxalic acid
- Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.
These can penetrate the skin and mucous membranes and damage them when the plant is touched or eaten. Skin irritation and minor chemical burns are the result. The symptoms range from difficulty swallowing and increased salivation to nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract may occur in particularly sensitive people.
Tip
Due to the plant's toxicity, be sure to wear gloves when changing water and place the bouquet so that children and pets cannot reach it.
