Caladiums, known as Elephant Ears, Angel Wings, or Heart of Jesus, are ornamental plants celebrated for their vibrant, paper-thin foliage. They feature dramatic splashes of color in shades of red, pink, white, and green, making them popular for indoor and outdoor use. Caladium species contain toxic elements and pose a hazard if ingested by humans or pets. All parts of the plant, including the leaves, stems, and tubers, require caution in a home environment.
The Mechanism of Caladium Toxicity
The toxic potential of Caladiums is due to a physical mechanism involving microscopic crystals, not a chemical poison. The plant tissue is densely packed with insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, known as raphides, which are shaped like tiny, sharp needles. These raphides are stored within specialized cells called idioblasts.
When the plant is chewed, the idioblasts rupture and eject thousands of crystals. These crystals immediately penetrate and lacerate the sensitive mucous membranes of the mouth and throat. This mechanical irritation causes instantaneous and intense pain, which deters further ingestion and prevents systemic poisoning.
Recognizing Symptoms of Exposure
Symptoms of exposure appear almost immediately due to the mechanical injury caused by the oxalate crystals. For humans, the most common symptoms are an intense burning sensation in the mouth and throat, followed quickly by localized swelling. This swelling can affect the tongue, lips, and throat, potentially leading to difficulty swallowing and a hoarse voice.
In pets like dogs and cats, symptoms include oral pain and discomfort. Owners may observe excessive drooling, a reluctance to eat, or signs of distress such as pawing at the mouth or face. Severe swelling of the upper airway in both humans and animals can obstruct breathing, which constitutes a medical emergency.
Immediate Emergency Response and Safe Handling
Following suspected ingestion or contact with Caladium material, immediate action is required. For human exposure, the priority is to wipe the mouth with a cold, wet cloth to remove remaining plant particles and offer milk to soothe irritation. Contact the national Poison Help hotline at 1-800-222-1222.
If a pet has ingested the plant, owners should contact a veterinarian or one of the following helplines:
- Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435
If a person or animal experiences severe difficulty breathing or significant throat swelling, seek immediate emergency medical attention. Bringing a sample of the plant can aid in identification when seeking medical care.
Safe Handling and Prevention
When incorporating Caladiums into the home or garden, preventative measures are essential. Always wear gloves when handling the plants, repotting them, or disposing of trimmings, as the sap can cause skin irritation. For indoor plants, place them on high shelves or in locations inaccessible to small children and pets. Discarded leaves or bulbs should be placed securely in the trash to prevent accidental access.