A.  Congratulations on being a new homeowner!  Having a yard with young children, is very rewarding and learning experience.  Unfortunately, there are so many plants, that if eaten, can produce problems with children.

Small children always seek oral satisfaction by putting everything in their mouths at such a young age.  It is most important that you are really informed as to the names of your plants, since it is not always possible to keep them out of your children's reach outside.

All parts of common garden plants as angel trumpet, azaleas, caladiums, oleander and holly are dangerous if ingested.  Delphiniums, and larkspur can cause convulsions and may be fatal.  A very popular plant, English ivy, can cause labored breathing and produce a coma.  The very prolific and widely used perennial, lantana, has been known to cause circulatory collapse, coma, and can be fatal.  Hydrangea, a very pretty plant in stores at Easter, can provoke fast heart rate and convulsions.  Additionally, the berries on yews and also the foliage are very fatal.  Actually, the leaves are more toxic than berries and death can happen without warning.  Any questions that you have with a problem should be referred to your nearest Poison Control Center.

As you can see, many plants that are quite popular can produce major health problems in children and adults alike.  I again, reiterate, it is extremely wise to be an informed gardener by labeling plants and knowing their names if a situation rises.

This web site is maintained by Master Gardener Laura Bellmore, under the direction of William M. Johnson, Ph.D., County Extension Agent-Horticulture & Master Gardener Program Coordinator.

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