A guide to Common Poisonous Plants (5001)

Children are often attracted to colorful berries, flowers, fruits, and leaves of plants. Unfortunately, some of these are poisonous. If eaten, some plant parts can cause a skin rash, upset stomach, or even death.

Some plants are harmful only if certain parts are eaten, or if eaten in certain stages of their growth. For instance, the berry of the potato plant is poisonous. Any green areas of potatoes or the potato plant contain solanine, which is poisonous.

Over 700 plants in the United States have been identified as poisonous, including many common plants found in Pennsylvania landscapes, gardens, and houses.

You can prevent plant poisoning by:

1) identifying the plants growing within and outside your house
2) determining which are poisonous by checking library books, the Cooperative Extension office, or the nearest poison control center
3) removing poisonous plants from areas where children play
4) supervising children around plants; eating too much of any plant might sicken a child
5) teaching children not to put plants, fruits, or berries in their mouths without first asking an adult

If you suspect poisoning, call a physician or the poison control center. Be prepared to tell the worker:

1) the name of the plant
2) how much and which parts were eaten
3) how long ago it was eaten
4) the age and approximate weight of the child
5) any symptoms of poisoning that the child might be showing

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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