If there are small children or animals in the house, then poisonous houseplants are certainly not a good choice. With the linden tree you don't have to worry much about this. However, sensitive people can react to skin irritation when touching the hairy leaves.
Is the linden tree poisonous?
The linden tree is often described as slightly poisonous, but no toxins or symptoms of poisoning are known. Skin irritation when touching the leaves could be caused mechanically. As a precaution, sensitive people should wear gloves.
For this reason, the relatively easy-care linden tree is often described as slightly poisonous. However, it is unclear whether the skin reaction occurs due to toxins or due to mechanical irritation. To be safe, wear gloves (€9.00 on Amazon) when repotting or pruning your linden tree. Symptoms of possible poisoning are not known.
Is the linden tree suitable for beginners?
It is not difficult to care for, but the linden tree has some demands on its location. Although it likes it bright, it quickly turns brown leaves in the blazing sun.
Normal room temperature is often a bit high for this plant that comes from South Africa, around 10 °C to 15 °C is optimal. In winter, 6 °C to 10 °C is enough. During this time, the linden tree should be watered little and not fertilized.
The linden tree can grow up to three meters high, too big for many living rooms. It also grows quite quickly. Although it can be cut back, it usually doesn't look very nice anymore. It is better to cut offshoots instead of replacing the old plant.
The most important things in brief:
- is often described as slightly toxic
- Toxins unknown
- no symptoms of poisoning known
- Skin irritation may only be caused mechanically
Tip
If you are very sensitive, then wear gloves as a precaution when repotting or cutting your linden tree.
