As an easy-care and hardy shrub, the gorse with its decorative flowers is also suitable for hobby gardeners and is an ornament in many gardens. However, it should only be planted carefully in the family garden because it is poisonous.
Is broom poisonous?
Broom is poisonous to humans and animals, especially its flowers, legumes and sap. Poisoning can lead to nausea, vomiting, cardiovascular problems, paralysis and circulatory collapse. Make sure Gorse is out of reach of children and pets.
Small legumes form from the delicate flowers. Like all other parts of the gorse, they are poisonous and should not be placed in the hands or mouths of children. Since the taste of gorse is quite unpleasant, it is probably rarely put into the mouth. Nevertheless, you should be careful.
Symptoms of poisoning can also occur in animals. Even deaths have occurred in smaller animals. Therefore, gorse should not be planted too close to a fish pond. If flowers, seeds or leaves fall into the water, this could be dangerous for your fish.
Be careful when cutting plants
You should wear gloves, at least when cutting back more extensively, because the sap of the broom is also poisonous. Contact with it can cause skin reactions. This precautionary measure is particularly recommended for sensitive people and allergy sufferers.
Possible symptoms of broom poisoning:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Heart and circulatory problems
- Symptoms of paralysis
- Circulatory collapse
Are other types of broom also poisonous?
All varieties of real gorse and also the “fake” types of gorse are considered poisonous. Although the composition of the ingredients varies and the concentration of toxins can also vary, there is no such thing as a non-toxic gorse. By the way, legumes can also be fatal for (demented) seniors because they resemble small beans.
Tip
If you would like to plant gorse in your garden, make sure it is out of reach of small children and pets.
