As opulent foliage plants, philodendron species are at the top of the list of popular indoor plants. As evergreen climbers, they use mighty trees in rain forests as climbing aids without harming them as parasites. You can find out here whether the tree friend is also well-disposed towards humans and animals.
The philodendron can trigger an allergic reaction even if it comes into contact with the skin
Toxic to humans
Philodendrons are permeated with a white milky sap. This contains toxic ingredients such as calcium oxalate or various pungent substances. Severe irritation, rashes and itching can occur even after mere skin contact. If parts of the leaf, a flower or fruit are eaten, the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat swell. This is followed by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps.
The tree friend should therefore not be placed within the reach of children. Wearing gloves and long-sleeved clothing during care and cutting work prevents skin contact. Clippings should be disposed of in the rubbish bin if there is a risk that animals could get to the compost heap in the garden.
Highly toxic to cats, dogs and rodents
The toxic content of philodendron takes on life-threatening dimensions for cats, dogs and rodents such as guinea pigs or hamsters. You can recognize poisoning by these symptoms:
- Heavy salivation
- tremors and restlessness
- diarrhea
- Vomit
For cats, poisoning can be fatal because the toxins cause irreversible damage to the kidneys. Living together with pets thus excludes the simultaneous cultivation of philodendrons. This also includes birds that are allowed to fly around in living spaces.
tips
When consumed, the philodendron is poisonous to humans and life-threatening to cats. Its numerous advantages should not be overlooked. In addition to the unique decorative value, the mighty leaves on the tree friend filter toxic substances from the room air, such as formaldehyde or carbon monoxide.