Like all orchids, a flowering lady's slipper is a beautiful sight. It is no wonder that these plants are often bought and kept as indoor plants. Nevertheless, a little caution is required, because the lady's slipper is poisonous.
The beautiful lady's slipper is slightly poisonous
How poisonous is the lady's slipper?
All orchids are considered poisonous, but the lady's slipper (bot. Paphiopedilum) is only slightly poisonous. Most toxins are found in the stem and leaves. Their consumption can cause nausea, vomiting and also diarrhea. The flowers are less poisonous.
Since the plant sap also contains toxic substances, it irritates the skin and contact allergies can also occur. Therefore, allergy sufferers or sensitive people should wear gloves when caring for plants such as cutting and repotting.
Possible symptoms of poisoning:
- nausea
- Vomit
- diarrhea
Can the lady's slipper harm my pets?
The lady's slipper is also poisonous for pets. Because they are smaller than humans, the venom can also do damage faster. However, caution is only required if your pet likes to nibble on greens, i.e. rodents and birds.
Place the lady's slipper out of the reach of animals and not where your bird is allowed to fly freely and unsupervised. It also makes sense to remove or collect and dispose of wilted flowers immediately after they have faded.
The essentials in brief:
- slightly toxic
- also toxic to pets
- poisonous plant parts: all parts, especially stems and leaves
- Contact with plant sap can cause skin irritation or allergies
tips
The lady's slipper is considered slightly poisonous and should be placed so that it cannot be reached by children or pets.