Poisonous Plant Ingestion

Content reviewed against published Poison Control, AAP, ASPCA guidelines

Editorial policy

Last reviewed:

Many common household and garden plants are toxic if ingested by children. Symptoms range from mild mouth irritation to life-threatening poisoning. Call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) immediately with the plant name for specific guidance.

Immediate actions

  • May not require 911 — see guidance below
  • Remove any plant material from the child's mouth
  • DO NOT: Do NOT induce vomiting unless specifically told to by Poison Control

Step-by-Step Response

1

Remove plant material

Take remaining plant pieces from the child's mouth. Check for pieces stuck in teeth or throat. Save any vomited material for identification.

2

Identify the plant

Take a clear photo of the plant including leaves, flowers, and berries. If you know the name, write it down. If you have the plant tag/label, save it.

3

Call Poison Control

Call 1-800-222-1222. Tell them: the plant name (or describe it), what part was eaten (berry, leaf, stem, flower), estimated amount, child's age and weight, and any symptoms.

4

Follow Poison Control guidance

They will determine toxicity and advise on home monitoring vs. ER visit. Some plants cause only mild irritation while others are extremely dangerous.

5

For mouth irritation (dieffenbachia, philodendron)

These plants contain calcium oxalate crystals that cause immediate burning and swelling. Offer cold water or a popsicle for comfort. Watch for throat swelling.

6

Monitor for symptoms

Watch for: vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, difficulty swallowing, rash, drowsiness, irregular heartbeat, or breathing problems. Some toxins take hours to show effects.

7

Go to ER if directed

Bring the plant or photo. Note time of ingestion and amount. Some dangerous plants include: lily of the valley, oleander, foxglove, water hemlock, and castor bean.

What NOT to Do

  • ✕Do NOT induce vomiting unless specifically told to by Poison Control
  • ✕Do NOT give milk or water unless instructed
  • ✕Do NOT wait for symptoms to call Poison Control — some toxins have delayed effects
  • ✕Do NOT assume a plant is safe because it is sold at a garden center
  • ✕Do NOT assume a plant is safe because birds or animals eat it
  • ✕Do NOT rely on internet identification alone — call Poison Control with your best identification

When to Seek Help

Call 911 if:

  • Child is having difficulty breathing or throat is swelling shut
  • Child is having a seizure
  • Child is unresponsive or extremely drowsy
  • Irregular heartbeat or chest pain
  • Known ingestion of a highly toxic plant (oleander, lily of the valley, foxglove, water hemlock)

Go to ER if:

  • Poison Control directs you to go
  • Child has significant vomiting or diarrhea
  • Drooling excessively or unable to swallow
  • Ingestion of a known highly toxic plant
  • Any cardiac symptoms (irregular heartbeat, paleness, weakness)
  • Neurological symptoms (confusion, drowsiness, seizure)
  • Cannot identify the plant and child has any symptoms

Call your doctor if:

  • After Poison Control consultation, if directed to follow up
  • Mild symptoms that are resolving (minor mouth irritation from low-toxicity plant)
  • Skin rash after plant contact

Age-Specific Guidance

0-1 year

Infants on the floor may reach hanging plant leaves or dropped berries. Remove all toxic houseplants from areas accessible to a crawling baby. Common exposures: pothos, philodendron leaves.

1-3 years

Peak risk age. Toddlers are attracted to colorful berries and will taste anything. Holly berries, pokeweed, and nightshade are common outdoor exposures. Indoor plants should be fully out of reach.

3-6 years

Children may "cook" with yard plants or dare each other to eat berries. Teach firm rules about never eating anything from the yard. Wild mushrooms are a particular concern.

Prevention

  • Remove or place toxic houseplants out of reach (dieffenbachia, philodendron, pothos, peace lily)
  • Know what plants are in your yard — remove highly toxic ones (oleander, foxglove, lily of the valley)
  • Teach children to never eat berries, leaves, or flowers without an adult's permission
  • Supervise outdoor play, especially near landscaping and wild areas
  • Keep mushrooms removed from your yard — many are difficult to identify
  • Label plants in your home if you have young children
  • Use the Poison Control app to identify toxic plants

Frequently asked questions

Should I call 911 for poisonous plant ingestion?
Not always. Call 911 if: Child is having difficulty breathing or throat is swelling shut
What should I do first?
Remove any plant material from the child's mouth. Try to identify the plant — take a photo or bring a sample. Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Do NOT induce vomiting unless directed by Poison Control
What should I NOT do?
Do NOT induce vomiting unless specifically told to by Poison Control. Do NOT give milk or water unless instructed. Do NOT wait for symptoms to call Poison Control — some toxins have delayed effects. Do NOT assume a plant is safe because it is sold at a garden center. Do NOT assume a plant is safe because birds or animals eat it. Do NOT rely on internet identification alone — call Poison Control with your best identification
How can I prevent this?
Remove or place toxic houseplants out of reach (dieffenbachia, philodendron, pothos, peace lily). Know what plants are in your yard — remove highly toxic ones (oleander, foxglove, lily of the valley). Teach children to never eat berries, leaves, or flowers without an adult's permission

Sources

POISON CONTROLAAPASPCA

All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.

2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources

Related Emergency Guides

household chemicalmedication overdose

Bottom line

Stay calm and follow the steps above. When in doubt, call your pediatrician or go to the nearest emergency room.

You are doing the right thing by learning what to do in an emergency. Being prepared is one of the best things you can do for your child.