The Anthurium, also known as the Flamingo Flower or Laceleaf, is a popular indoor plant recognized for its glossy, heart-shaped leaves and brightly colored spathes. Despite its attractive appearance, this tropical plant is toxic to both humans and pets if chewed or ingested. The danger is not systemic poisoning but an immediate, intensely painful reaction. This reaction is caused by a defense mechanism within the plant’s cells.
The Source of Anthurium Toxicity
The entire Anthurium plant contains the toxic agent, including the leaves, stems, roots, seeds, and spathes. This toxicity is due to insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, a common feature in the Araceae family. These crystals are microscopic, needle-shaped structures called raphides, stored under pressure within specialized cells called idioblasts.
When the plant is chewed, the idioblasts explosively launch thousands of sharp raphides into the mouth and throat tissues. These needle-like crystals cause immediate mechanical trauma by penetrating the mucous membranes. This physical piercing, combined with irritant substances in the plant sap, triggers an intense inflammatory response.
Signs of Exposure
Chewing an Anthurium immediately causes a painful, burning sensation localized to the mouth, tongue, and lips. Significant swelling quickly follows, potentially affecting the tongue and throat. This irritation and swelling can make speaking difficult, causing the voice to become hoarse, and may lead to difficulty swallowing.
In pets, common signs include excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, and refusing to eat due to intense oral pain. If swallowed, the crystals can irritate the digestive tract, leading to gastrointestinal upset and vomiting. Contact with the plant’s sap on the skin or eyes can also cause localized reactions, such as redness, itching, burning, or a rash.
Immediate Action Following Contact
If a person or pet ingests any part of an Anthurium, immediately remove any remaining plant material from the mouth. The affected area, especially the mouth, should be rinsed thoroughly with cool water to wash away irritating crystals and sap. For ingestion, drinking small amounts of cold liquid, such as water or milk, can help soothe the burning sensation.
Contact a medical professional immediately after initial first aid. Humans should call a poison control center, while pets require contacting a veterinarian or animal poison helpline. Although poisoning is usually localized, medical guidance is necessary to monitor for potential airway swelling, which can obstruct breathing.