Liriope, often called lilyturf or monkey grass, is a hardy, low-maintenance perennial used as an ornamental groundcover. This grass-like plant forms dense clumps of dark green foliage. In late summer and fall, it produces slender stalks of lavender or white flowers that mature into small, round berries, typically dark blue, purple, or black. These tempting berries often prompt property owners, especially those with small children or pets, to question their safety.
The Toxicity Status of Liriope Berries
Liriope berries are generally categorized as a low-toxicity or mild gastrointestinal irritant, meaning they are unlikely to cause severe, life-threatening poisoning. The plant, including the berries and rhizomes, contains chemical compounds known as steroidal saponins. Saponins are natural detergents that, when ingested, produce a foaming action and irritate the sensitive mucous membranes of the digestive tract.
While some official sources list Liriope muscari as non-toxic, this classification focuses on the absence of systemic or organ-damaging poisons. The mild toxicity is localized to the gut, leading to uncomfortable but typically temporary symptoms. The severity of the reaction is highly dependent on the quantity consumed and the size of the human or animal involved.
The small size of the berries means a significant amount would need to be eaten to cause a pronounced reaction. For a small child or pet, however, even a few berries can lead to a noticeable physical response due to the irritating nature of the saponins. The main concern is not fatal poisoning but the immediate discomfort and distress caused by the body attempting to reject the irritant.
Symptoms of Ingestion in Humans and Pets
Following the ingestion of Liriope berries, symptoms are generally confined to the digestive system as the body attempts to expel the irritating saponin compounds. In humans, particularly small children, primary reactions include stomach discomfort, nausea, and localized mouth irritation. These symptoms often progress to vomiting and diarrhea.
Common household pets, such as dogs and cats, display similar gastrointestinal distress after chewing or swallowing the berries. A pet may exhibit excessive drooling, which is a sign of oral irritation and nausea. This is usually followed by acute vomiting and diarrhea.
These symptoms are typically self-limiting, meaning they resolve once the plant matter has passed through the system. Symptoms generally appear within a few hours of ingestion and should begin to subside within 24 hours. While the symptoms are rarely serious, it is important to monitor the individual closely for signs of dehydration or persistent distress.
Immediate Action Steps and When to Seek Help
If you suspect a child has eaten Liriope berries, the first step is to gently rinse their mouth with a small amount of water to clear any remaining plant fragments. Do not try to induce vomiting, as this can cause further irritation to the esophagus. You should immediately call the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for professional advice specific to the situation.
For a pet that has ingested the berries, remove any remaining plant material from their mouth and restrict access to the plant. Monitor the pet’s behavior, specifically noting the time of ingestion and the estimated amount consumed. Contact your veterinarian or a pet-specific poison control line, such as the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661, before attempting any home remedies.
Certain “red flag” symptoms warrant immediate emergency medical or veterinary attention. These include signs of severe lethargy, persistent vomiting or diarrhea that lasts more than 24 hours, or any indication of breathing difficulty. If the individual or pet’s condition appears to be worsening or is significantly outside the range of mild gastrointestinal upset, seek professional help.