The question of whether orange lilies are poisonous to humans is complex because the common name “orange lily” refers to two entirely different plants. These two distinct groups, while visually similar, possess different toxicity profiles that impact human health. Understanding which plant you are dealing with is the first step in assessing any potential risk in a garden or home environment. While severe, systemic toxicity in adult humans is rare for both species, ingestion can frequently lead to uncomfortable localized reactions and gastrointestinal irritation. The risk is not uniform across all parts of the plant or for all living creatures.
Identifying the Two Types of Orange Lilies
Correct identification is necessary, as the term “lily” is applied to plants from two separate botanical families: True Lilies and Daylilies. True Lilies belong to the genus Lilium and grow from a true bulb, which is an underground storage organ composed of overlapping scales. These plants feature a single, upright stem with leaves arranged along its length, leading to a cluster of flowers at the top. The individual flowers are long-lasting, remaining open for several days or even weeks, and often display prominent spots or freckles on the petals.
Daylilies are members of the genus Hemerocallis and are not true lilies at all. They grow from a crown with fleshy, tuberous roots rather than a scaled bulb. The leaves of a Daylily are grass-like and strap-shaped, emerging directly from the base of the plant in a dense clump. Their flowers are borne on a leafless stalk, known as a scape, and are short-lived, with each bloom lasting only a single day.
Toxicity Profile of True Lilies (Lilium Species)
The True Lilies, which include varieties like the Tiger Lily and Asiatic Lily, are known to contain unknown toxic compounds that pose a serious threat to felines. Even minimal ingestion of any part of the plant, including the pollen or water from the vase, can lead to acute kidney failure in cats. This high risk to pets is often confused with the danger to humans, which is generally much lower.
For humans, the main concern with ingesting True Lilies is localized irritation and mild gastrointestinal distress. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, particularly if a large quantity of the plant material is consumed. Certain species have historically had edible bulbs, such as the Tiger Lily (Lilium lancifolium), but this practice is not recommended due to variations in toxicity among cultivars. Handling the bulbs or sap of some Lilium species can cause contact dermatitis, resulting in localized skin irritation.
Toxicity Profile of Daylilies (Hemerocallis Species)
Daylilies, particularly the common orange roadside variety (Hemerocallis fulva), are sometimes consumed as a wild food, with the flower buds and young shoots often being cooked. However, this consumption is not without risk, and the plant is classified as mildly toxic. The roots and tubers of the Daylily are the most concerning parts, as they contain higher concentrations of irritants, including saponins.
Ingestion of the roots or large amounts of other parts of the plant can induce symptoms of gastric distress in humans. These effects typically manifest as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The severity of the reaction can vary significantly depending on the specific Hemerocallis species, the amount consumed, and the individual’s sensitivity. Newer hybrid cultivars may also pose an unknown risk, which adds a layer of uncertainty to any consumption.
Emergency Response and Prevention
In the event of accidental ingestion of any part of an orange lily, immediate action is necessary to ensure safety. The first step is to rinse the mouth thoroughly with water to remove any remaining plant material. If the plant sap or bulb material has come into prolonged contact with the skin, the area should be washed with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes to mitigate any potential dermatitis.
Regardless of the type of lily or the presence of symptoms, the next action should be to contact the national Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Poison control experts can provide free, confidential, and specific advice based on the plant part consumed and the age and weight of the person involved. Call 911 immediately if the person collapses, has a seizure, or experiences difficulty breathing. Prevention is the safest strategy, which includes teaching children that ornamental plants are not food and ensuring bulbs and plants are kept out of reach of small children and pets.