Even from a distance, you can not only see the lush, colorful panicles of flowers glowing in summer, you can also perceive their beguiling scent at the same time. This has a strong attraction especially for butterflies that feast on the abundant nectar. However, what is a feast for butterflies causes symptoms of poisoning in humans and pets.
Buddleia is slightly toxic to humans and animals
Slightly toxic to humans and animals
All plant parts of summer lilac (especially those of the species Buddleja davidii) contain toxic glycosides such as catapol and aucubin as well as various saponins. These substances are concentrated in the seeds and leaves of the flowering shrub in particular, which is why intentional or unintentional consumption can lead to slight symptoms of poisoning. Typical symptoms are, for example:
- Stomach cramps
- nausea
- Vomit
- diarrhea
- a headache
Consult a doctor immediately if your child has eaten parts of the plant and shows at least one of the symptoms described. Don't make the victim vomit or give him or her milk to drink. If you have an affected pet, please see a veterinarian.
Do not use clippings as green fodder
Buddleja davidii in particular is cut back heavily in spring, which is why there is a lot of clippings. Do not use this as green fodder for pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs or turtles, nor discard it as animal feed in paddocks or cow pastures. On the other hand, the clippings can be put on the compost provided that no hungry animals can help themselves there.
tips
The common lilac (Syringa) also contains the glycoside syringin, a component that can be slightly toxic under certain circumstances, which is mainly found in the flowers. Incidentally, you do not necessarily have to eat the parts of the plant in order to suffer from symptoms of poisoning: very sensitive people get headaches from the scent of lilacs and respiratory problems caused by the essential oils contained.