Is Amaryllis Belladonna Toxic?
Amaryllis belladonna, sometimes nicknamed the "naked lady," is a flowering bulb prized for its flowers. However, the plant is poisonous and should never be consumed by humans, cats or dogs. Does this Spark an idea?
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Types
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The naked lady stores a compound called lycorine, which is its primary toxic agent. All parts of the plant may be poisonous if ingested, but the bulbs are the most toxic part.
Effects
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Ingestion of amaryllis can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain in both humans and pets. Eating large quantities can cause convulsions and low blood pressure.
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Fun Fact
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Amaryllis belladonna actually shares its toxic properties with a number of other species in the Amaryllidaceae family. Another plant that stores lycorine is the wild daffodil, Narcissus pseudonarcissus, which is toxic to humans and animals as well.
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