A flowering lady's slipper, like basically all orchids, is a beautiful sight. It's no wonder that these plants are often bought and kept as houseplants. Nevertheless, a little caution is required because the lady's slipper is poisonous.
Is the lady's slipper poisonous to people and pets?
The lady's slipper (Paphiopedilum) is a slightly poisonous orchid that can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea if consumed. The main problem is the toxic substances in stems and leaves. This plant is also poisonous to pets, especially rodents and birds.
How poisonous is the lady's slipper?
All orchids are considered poisonous, but the lady's slipper (bot. Paphiopedilum) is only slightly poisonous. Most toxins are found in the stem and leaves. Consuming them can cause nausea, vomiting and also diarrhea. The flowers are less poisonous.
Since the plant sap also contains toxic substances, it is irritating to the skin and contact allergies can also occur. Therefore, allergy sufferers or sensitive people should wear gloves when caring for plants such as cutting and repotting.
Possible symptoms of poisoning:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Can the lady's slipper harm my pets?
The lady's slipper is also poisonous to pets. Since they are smaller than humans, the poison can also cause damage more quickly. However, caution is only advised if your pet likes to nibble on green things, i.e. rodents and birds.
Place the lady's slipper out of reach of animals and not where your bird is allowed to fly freely and unsupervised. It also makes sense to remove or collect and dispose of wilted flowers immediately after they have faded.
The most important things in brief:
- slightly toxic
- also toxic to pets
- poisonous plant parts: all parts, especially stems and leaves
- Contact with plant sap can cause skin irritation or allergies
Tip
The lady's slipper is considered slightly poisonous and should be placed so that it cannot be reached by children or pets.
