The Mother of Thousands plant, scientifically known as Kalanchoe daigremontiana, is a popular succulent. Recognized by its broad, fleshy leaves with tiny plantlets forming along the edges, it is a common ornamental. However, this plant is toxic and should not be consumed by humans or animals.
Why Mother of Thousands is Not Safe for Consumption
The Mother of Thousands plant contains highly toxic cardiac glycosides, specifically bufadienolides like daigremontianin. These substances interfere with the body’s electrolyte balance, particularly affecting heart function. All parts of the plant, including the leaves, stems, and plantlets, are poisonous. The flowers, when present, can contain an even higher concentration of these toxins.
Ingestion can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Even small amounts can cause these initial symptoms.
As the amount ingested increases, the effects become more severe, primarily impacting the cardiovascular system. Symptoms can progress to include changes in heart rate, such as bradycardia (slow heart rate) or tachycardia (fast heart rate), and various cardiac arrhythmias. In more serious cases, neurological symptoms like weakness, disorientation, tremors, and seizures can occur. In extreme instances, particularly with large ingestions, cardiac arrest and death are possible, especially for smaller individuals or animals.
The plant’s toxicity extends to pets, posing a significant risk to dogs, cats, and livestock. Animals that consume the plant may exhibit similar symptoms. The ease with which the plantlets detach and spread makes it crucial to prevent pets from accessing them.
Safe Handling and Identification
Given the toxicity of the Mother of Thousands, exercising caution when handling it is important. When repotting or pruning the plant, wearing gloves can help prevent skin irritation from the sap, although direct skin contact is generally not considered a major hazard. It is important to keep the plant, including any fallen plantlets, out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion. Placing the plant in a high, inaccessible location is a recommended practice for households with curious family members or animals.
Proper disposal of Mother of Thousands plants and their prolific plantlets is also necessary to prevent their spread and potential harm. The plant is considered invasive in many regions due to its ability to rapidly reproduce from dropped plantlets. Disposing of plant material in sealed bags rather than composting helps contain its spread in the environment.
While some Kalanchoe species have been traditionally used in certain medicinal contexts, it is important to distinguish these from Kalanchoe daigremontiana. There is no safe method for general consumption of Kalanchoe daigremontiana. Distinguishing Mother of Thousands from other succulents is possible by observing its characteristic broad, green leaves with distinct plantlets forming along the scalloped margins. Other Kalanchoe varieties, like Mother of Millions (Kalanchoe delagoensis), have narrower leaves and produce plantlets primarily at the tips, but are also toxic.