The plant genus Spathiphyllum, also known as single leaf or leaf flag, includes around 50 different species. Spathiphyllum floribundum in particular is kept as a houseplant, which in turn is available in numerous cultivated forms. The plant adorns with large, dark green and shiny leaves and showy, mostly white, flowers. These usually appear twice a year, in spring and autumn. But as beautiful as the flower, which belongs to the aroid family, may be, unfortunately - like so many popular house plants - it is also poisonous.
Single leaf can lead to allergic reactions even with mere skin contact
Effect of the leaflet on humans
Like all members of the aroid family, the leaf contains toxic oxalic acid. However, the toxic effect of the plant is not only due to these substances, because small amounts of oxalic acid are also contained in food plants such as rhubarb and do not cause any harm here - with the exception of sensitive people. However, the single leaf contains so-called pungent substances, such as those found in the related aroid. These in turn cause skin irritation and inflammation if you come into external contact with the plant sap. If, on the other hand, plant parts are eaten, the mucous membranes swell due to the irritation. Stomach and intestinal problems of varying degrees as well as cramps can also occur.
Leaflet poisonous to many pets
As for humans, the leaflet is also poisonous for many pets such as cats and dogs, rodents such as hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits and also for birds (e.g. free-flying budgerigars!). The symptoms are very similar to those of a human. A possible poisoning shows through
- increased salivation
- difficulties swallowing
- vomiting and diarrhea
- Cramps.
If you have pets and / or small children in the household, do without the single leaf as a houseplant or place it in an inaccessible place - for example in a hanging basket. (11.99 €)
tips
If you suspect that your child might have been poisoned by the leaflet, do not force it to vomit. Instead, give him plenty of water to drink and see a doctor.