It always amazes me at how many toxic plants we have around us, often growing them because of the beauty and soothing colors. Nothing wrong with that as long as we understand that many of them can be harmful to us or our pets, so be aware.
Rhododendron spp.
Toxic Principle: Andromedotoxin
Azaleas are a very common plant, found in gardens all over the world. Its evergreen leaves and brilliant flowers make it an exceptionally attractive plant for many gardeners. Its flowers are white to deep pink, red, yellow, purple, blue and orange.
Despite its popularity, an underwhelming common knowledge of its toxicity exists. All parts of the Rhododendron are highly toxic, and may be fatal if eaten. Symptoms from ingestion include over-salivation, watering of eyes and nose, abdominal pain, loss of energy, depression, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, difficulty breathing, progressive paralysis of arms and legs and coma, usually leading to death. How beautiful and attractive!
How many plants to you have around the house that are toxic? Just don't eat them or even chew on the stems...OK?
Coffee out on the patio this morning. Big rain coming in a day or two.
Azalea is my most favorite plants. Of course I don't have any in this desert. I had a beauty up in the mountains a few years ago. When I lived in NJ I had almost every color in my front yard.
ReplyDeleteWe are having our windy season here mornings are chilly again. See you on the patio.
Hey Jo...
ReplyDeleteAround Texas, they have what they call Azalea Trails to show off all the colors when they bloom. Folks come from all around to see them.
Thanks for dropping by today, sweetie!
I did not know that azaleas were poisonous, nor that they were in the rhododendrum family ~ you're just a font of knowledge, Bubba!
ReplyDeleteSee you again in about a month, but I'll read when I have wifi connections ...
Really Big Hugs