Orange lilies, commonly found in gardens, often raise questions about their safety for humans. These vibrant flowers belong to the Lilium genus. Understanding their characteristics and potential effects is important for gardeners and homeowners. This article clarifies the toxicity of orange lilies and related plants.
Understanding True Lily Toxicity to Humans
True lilies (Lilium genus) are considered to have low toxicity for humans. Ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, but these plants are not life-threatening to people. It is crucial to understand that the severe toxicity observed in cats from true lilies does not apply to humans. Cats can suffer fatal kidney damage from ingesting any part of a true lily, including pollen or water from a vase containing them.
Common Symptoms of Human Ingestion
If a human ingests parts of a true lily, symptoms are usually mild and primarily involve the digestive system. Common reactions include nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, and diarrhea. While these symptoms cause discomfort, severe or life-threatening reactions are rare for humans. The severity of symptoms can depend on the amount ingested and individual sensitivity.
Differentiating True Lilies from Other “Lilies”
The term “lily” is broadly used, causing confusion as many plants share the common name but belong to different botanical families with varying toxicity profiles. Daylilies (Hemerocallis) are not true lilies and are generally considered safe for human consumption, though some might experience mild gastrointestinal upset like diarrhea or vomiting. Calla lilies (Zantedeschia) and Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals throughout their parts, including flowers, leaves, and stems. Ingesting these can cause immediate irritation, burning sensations, and swelling of the mouth, lips, and tongue, along with nausea and vomiting. While symptoms are usually localized and not life-threatening, severe throat swelling can pose a risk.
Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) is another plant commonly called a “lily” that is distinct from true lilies and highly toxic. All parts contain cardenolides, compounds that can affect heart function, leading to symptoms such as irregular heartbeat, chest tightness, dizziness, nausea, and visual disturbances. In severe cases, it can cause cardiac arrest. Peruvian lilies (Alstroemeria) are mildly toxic to humans; ingestion can result in nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Skin contact may also lead to allergic reactions like rashes, redness, or swelling.
What to Do in Case of Ingestion
If a human has ingested any part of an orange lily or any suspected “lily” plant, take immediate action. First, remove any remaining plant material from the mouth and have the individual rinse thoroughly with water. Do not induce vomiting unless advised by a medical professional or poison control.
Contact a poison control center immediately for guidance. The national toll-free Poison Help hotline in the United States is 1-800-222-1222, available 24/7. Be prepared to provide information such as the person’s age, weight, condition, the plant name (if known), amount ingested, and time of ingestion. Seek emergency medical attention by calling 911 if the person collapses, has difficulty breathing, experiences a seizure, or cannot be awakened. Bringing a plant sample for identification can be helpful.
Safe Handling and Prevention
To minimize the risk of accidental ingestion or contact, handle all garden plants with care. Always wash hands thoroughly after gardening or touching any plants, especially if their toxicity is unknown. Wearing gardening gloves can provide a protective barrier against skin irritants.
Keep all plants, including orange lilies, out of reach of small children and curious pets to prevent accidental ingestion. Teach children not to put plants in their mouths. If true lilies are present in a home with cats, special precautions are necessary due to their severe toxicity to felines.