Lantana is a verbena plant with attractive umbel flowers that is often found in our green spaces. These change their color during the flowering period and gave the ornamental plant its German name. From September they form bright black fruits, which can pose a risk that should not be underestimated.
The fruits of the Lantana are highly poisonous!
The berries are highly toxic
Lantana toxins, lantadene and triterpene esters, are found in all parts of the plant. However, the concentration is highest in the unripe and ripe berries. The symptoms of poisoning are similar to those of deadly nightshade poisoning and are expressed as follows:
- liver damage
- Disorder of bile outflow
- Changes in the enzymes of the blood and liver
- This causes the typical features of jaundice such as discoloration of the eyeballs and skin
- Inflammation of the skin (phototoxic effect)
- pupil dilation
- diarrhea
- Vomit
- Uncontrolled muscle reactions
Childhood poisoning is always an emergency. If you suspect that your child has eaten the berries or plant parts of the Lantana, consult a doctor in any case.
The Lantana is poisonous to animals
Domestic and farm animals such as cattle, sheep, dogs, cats and small rodents are also at risk. The toxins have a phototoxic effect on them, which means that the poisoning is triggered by the interaction with solar radiation. The symptoms are expressed as follows:
- skin rash
- Jaundice with yellowing of the mucous membranes
- liver damage
- bloody diarrhea
- constipation
- movement disorders
- sensitivity to light
The lantana is highly toxic to the animals. Cattle can die within a week if they regularly ingest about 25 grams per kilogram of body weight.
tips
Since not only the lantana but also many other ornamental plants are poisonous, it is advisable to point out to small children the dangers of snacking on unknown plants.