Impatiens are among the most popular flowering plants, frequently found in hanging baskets and garden beds for their ability to thrive in the shade. These bright, low-maintenance flowers include familiar types such as Busy Lizzie (Impatiens walleriana) and New Guinea Impatiens (Impatiens hawkeri). Given their ubiquity in homes and landscapes, understanding the safety profile of these plants for curious children and pets is important.
Understanding Impatiens Toxicity
Impatiens are generally classified as non-toxic to low-toxicity for both humans and animals, a classification confirmed by major poison control centers. The plants lack the potent, systemic poisons found in many other ornamental species. The primary mechanism for the mild reaction that does occur is simple gastrointestinal irritation, which is localized and temporary.
This irritation is attributed to the plant’s bitter taste and the presence of indigestible plant matter, which can irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines. Some species in the Impatiens genus also contain compounds like napthoquinone, known to cause mild digestive irritation.
Symptoms of Ingestion
If a dog, cat, or small child ingests a piece of an Impatiens plant, the symptoms are typically limited to the digestive tract and are not life-threatening. The most common reaction is an upset stomach, which can manifest as vomiting and diarrhea. The bitter compounds in the plant material are quickly rejected by the body.
In pets, owners might also notice increased drooling or pawing at the mouth, indicating mild oral irritation and a bad taste. These symptoms are generally self-limiting, resolving on their own once the plant material has been expelled. This mild gastrointestinal distress contrasts sharply with the severe damage caused by truly poisonous landscape plants.
Safety Protocols After Exposure
If you suspect a child or pet has ingested Impatiens, the first step is to remove any remaining plant parts from their mouth and rinse the area with water. Closely observe the individual for the next few hours, looking for the onset of vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual lethargy. For a mild, single episode of vomiting, withholding food for a few hours and providing small amounts of water can help settle the stomach.
Contact a medical professional or the Pet Poison Helpline if the vomiting becomes persistent, severe, or bloody, or if diarrhea continues for more than a few hours. While ingestion is rarely serious, a professional consultation is recommended to ensure the symptoms are not escalating. Having the scientific name of the specific Impatiens variety available will assist the medical provider in making the most accurate assessment.