If the ZZ plant seems like it would be a good choice for you then I wish you the best of luck in welcoming this charming plant to your home. If you really want to be completely safe, there is always the option of swapping your ZZ plant for a non-toxic alternative. I’m here to share my experience and help you have more success and enjoyment growing plants. ZZ — shorthand for the plant’s tongue-tangling botanical name, Zamioculcas zamiifolia — may be the solution for anyone who wishes they could grow something — anything — without much attention and hassle, and better still if it can thrive on neglect. If you have overly curious cats or dogs, perhaps avoid bringing the plant into your home or move it to an area where pets won’t have access to it. Not very poisonous. You can expect your dog or cat to have a stomach ache and a bad case of diarrhea. This impressive feature makes it an ideal choice for forgetful plant owners as well as those that often travel. If your pet eats part of a ZZ plant, they will experience some discomfort, but should be absolutely fine in the end. Pieris japonica: Also known as Japanese pieris. Eating the ZZ plant is not advised! Actually, not long ago there was all this rage over this plant being a generator of wealth and fortune and people were buying them to decorate their homes and gardens. ZZ plants are beautiful and very popular houseplants, and most people can keep them in their home very safely, even in the presence of pets and children. Exposure to the ZZ plant will rarely result in any severe conditions, but it can still cause discomfort. Is A ZZ Plant Poisonous? (And How To Grow Them Safely), Umbrella Plant Propagation Guide (With Pictures), How To Get Rid Of Houseplant Bugs Naturally. From its undemanding standards, to its ability to purify the air, there is no shortage of appealing qualities that this plant has to offer. The occasional scale insect may be caught wandering around, but you’ll never have a serious invasion. As an Amazon associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Encouraging your pet to eat can help the body pass the plant and toxins. If you have an animal that enjoys ice cubes or other pet-safe frozen treats this would be a wonderful time to give them a chilly snack.The cold will help soothe their mouth, bring down the swelling, and reduce any burning sensations. Exposure to the plant can also cause minor skin and eye irritation. In the rare circumstances that you, your child, or someone you know eats this plant here is what you could expect: Usually people will spit out the plant due to the painful sensations, but if swallowed the following symptoms are likely: The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia notes that, “with most of these plants, [including the ZZ plant,] vomiting and diarrhea are mild and should last only a few hours. If you or a child ingests any part of the plant, you can expect a stomach ache, potential diarrhea and possible vomiting. Such as sprinkling cayenne pepper at the base of the plant, leaving citrus rinds around the plant, or even misting lemon juice onto the leaves. The drought-tolerant ZZ plant makes a wonderful addition to low-light situations in homes and offices, but all parts of this plant are poisonous. Most outbound links are affiliate links - we may receive commission. But could this seemingly ideal house plant actually be a lurking danger? While the ZZ plant is a fantastic plant to have because of how easy it is to care for and its benefits to the environment, it also has a reputation for being poisonous. Fear not! Spider mite On the Zamioculcas zamiifolia, the spider mite occurs predominantly in the winter months when heating air ensures a dry room climate. The zamioculcas zamiifolia (botanical name) grows well in low or bright lighting conditions and with frequent or much less frequent amounts of water. ZZ plants can cause skin and eye irritation with direct contact, and can cause stomach ache, vomiting and diarrhea if ingested. If you know which are safe and which are not, you can take appropriate precautions. However, eating an amount comparable to the size of a small salad would be poisonous”(source). So, you should avoid touching the sap when cutting or pruning it. Common side effects and signs to watch out for in the case of Snake plant poisoning are excessive drooling, diarrhea, abdominal pain, decreased appetite, lethargy, vomiting, swelling of tongue, mouth or lips, and in some cases even depression in cats. The plant needs regular water. Is a ZZ plant poisonous? Some believe that you must use gloves when handling a ZZ plant. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. ZZ Plant contains one of the most common plant toxin – calcium oxalate in the form of tiny crystals, which can burn mouth and throat when ingested. __CONFIG_colors_palette__{"active_palette":0,"config":{"colors":{"79b4d":{"name":"Main Accent","parent":-1}},"gradients":[]},"palettes":[{"name":"Default","value":{"colors":{"79b4d":{"val":"var(--tcb-skin-color-0)"}},"gradients":[]},"original":{"colors":{"79b4d":{"val":"rgb(57, 163, 209)","hsl":{"h":198,"s":0.62,"l":0.52,"a":1}}},"gradients":[]}}]}__CONFIG_colors_palette__, {"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}, __CONFIG_colors_palette__{"active_palette":0,"config":{"colors":{"f3080":{"name":"Main Accent","parent":-1},"f2bba":{"name":"Main Light 10","parent":"f3080"},"trewq":{"name":"Main Light 30","parent":"f3080"},"poiuy":{"name":"Main Light 80","parent":"f3080"},"f83d7":{"name":"Main Light 80","parent":"f3080"},"frty6":{"name":"Main Light 45","parent":"f3080"},"flktr":{"name":"Main Light 80","parent":"f3080"}},"gradients":[]},"palettes":[{"name":"Default","value":{"colors":{"f3080":{"val":"var(--tcb-color-4)"},"f2bba":{"val":"rgba(11, 16, 19, 0.5)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":206,"l":0.06,"s":0.27}},"trewq":{"val":"rgba(11, 16, 19, 0.7)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":206,"l":0.06,"s":0.27}},"poiuy":{"val":"rgba(11, 16, 19, 0.35)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":206,"l":0.06,"s":0.27}},"f83d7":{"val":"rgba(11, 16, 19, 0.4)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":206,"l":0.06,"s":0.27}},"frty6":{"val":"rgba(11, 16, 19, 0.2)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":206,"l":0.06,"s":0.27}},"flktr":{"val":"rgba(11, 16, 19, 0.8)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":206,"l":0.06,"s":0.27}}},"gradients":[]},"original":{"colors":{"f3080":{"val":"rgb(23, 23, 22)","hsl":{"h":60,"s":0.02,"l":0.09}},"f2bba":{"val":"rgba(23, 23, 22, 0.5)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":60,"s":0.02,"l":0.09,"a":0.5}},"trewq":{"val":"rgba(23, 23, 22, 0.7)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":60,"s":0.02,"l":0.09,"a":0.7}},"poiuy":{"val":"rgba(23, 23, 22, 0.35)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":60,"s":0.02,"l":0.09,"a":0.35}},"f83d7":{"val":"rgba(23, 23, 22, 0.4)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":60,"s":0.02,"l":0.09,"a":0.4}},"frty6":{"val":"rgba(23, 23, 22, 0.2)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":60,"s":0.02,"l":0.09,"a":0.2}},"flktr":{"val":"rgba(23, 23, 22, 0.8)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":60,"s":0.02,"l":0.09,"a":0.8}}},"gradients":[]}}]}__CONFIG_colors_palette__. ZZ plants contain poisonous substances that can harm pets (such as cats and dogs) and humans.

Usually, they pick the palms, bamboo, water cyperus, or spider plants, because they love the rustling sounds that the leaves make. Every part of the ZZ plant is considered poisonous and can cause problems when ingested, such as stomach aches, diarrhea, and vomiting. You can sprinkle some orange peel or coffee grounds onto the soil around your ZZ plant. This plant was in-fact considered extremely poisonous and to be handled with gloves. However, a few simple deterrents can reduce their interest in your ZZ plant. Dehydration can cause death in pets. You may, however, wonder whether ZZ plants are poisonous, and if they are safe for your family and pets. It is not the most toxic among the poisonous indoor plants and it has made a much better reputation for itself in the past few years. So obviously, this plant is of no harm to you, but the trick comes in when we need to keep our pets from nibbling on them. If your pet starts showing symptoms of ZZ plant exposure you should: In case your pet has eaten enough of the plant to upset their stomach and cause vomiting or diarrhea, drinking water will help them stay hydrated. Keep it away from children and pets, and wash your hands or wear gloves if you need to handle it. ZZ Plant Care Guide Light . This is not true. ZZ Plant Propagation. Cats and dogs tend to dislike the strong odors produced, and will often stay away. It is a poisonous plant, but it is not a fatal poison. These sharp crystals are what cause burning sensations when the sap is consumed or exposed to bare skin. Many people believed that the plant was so toxic that it could cause cancer and that the only way to safely handle the plant was while wearing gloves. Well that sounds very unfortunate for the unlucky herbivore, but how does the ZZ plants toxicity affect you and your loved ones? Use a soft cloth to wipe out the mouth and wash your hands. Keep in mind, that it is the most poisonous if a person is consuming the leaves, and can only cause minor burning and irritation to the touch. Eat “…milk, ice cream, or popsicles to wash away crystals from [the] mouth and soothe the affected area. Even though the symptoms are quite minor it is still best to avoid exposure in the first place. This substance makes up your kidney stones, and it has sharp edges. Although this hardy plant can go quite a while without water, it will need to be replenished at some point. Sadly, ZZ plants are toxic to dogs, cats, and people if ingested and can cause oral burning, swelling, irritation, vomiting, excessive drooling, and difficulty breathing. Is ZZ Plant Poisonous to Animals? Plus, they had a rough day and deserve a little treat! Here they are… While a ZZ plant can bring about allergies if humans come into contact with its sap, what happens if a pet eats part of the ZZ plant? However, it is important to wash your hands directly after touching the plant to ensure that there is no residue or sap that could cause skin irritation, get into your eyes, or unwittingly end up in your mouth. As tantalizing as a sharp poisonous salad may sound, it is not advised to ever add this plant to your dinner menu. Mesmerizing leaf patterns, ability to purify the air, and low maintenance standards have made the ZZ plant a popular choice for anyone looking to add a touch of green to their home. The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a tough, easy to grow houseplant. If you are looking for a hardy, low light house plant, the ZZ plant (or Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a great choice. Deep shade must also be avoided if you want it to grow. A pet that comes in contact with a ZZ plant may develop inflammation of the skin, eyes or mucus membranes. Due to the sharp crystals, exposing bare skin to this plant will result in skin irritation and the possibility of a minor rash. Spring invasions of ants mean placing bottle caps of borax mixed with jelly under stove (where dog can't get to it). Spit out any plant material still in your mouth. The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia also notes that “poisoning from swallowing an oxalate-containing plant [such as the ZZ plant] is rare” (source). Now you have to react quickly and immediatel… Even with these risks plant owners adore this plant for a range of reasons, and for many people the benefits of the ZZ plant outweigh the mild risk of poison exposure. The truth of the matter is that ZZ plants are poisonous, but not lethally toxic to pets. In general, the ZZ plant is safe to keep in your home as long as you use the precautions discussed here. Here is information on untrue rumours spread about the plant. What makes the plant poisonous is its unique composition. Yes, the ZZ plant is mildly poisonous to cats, dogs and humans if directly ingested. Most people and pets that come into contact with the plant only suffer allergy-type symptoms. Yes, ZZ plants are poisonous to both humans and pets. Some “toxic” or “poisonous” houseplants produce isolated symptoms, often very mild, like rashes or upset stomach, while others cause very serious, sometimes life-threatening symptoms. It is important to be aware of the different symptoms associated with poisoning from this plant in case you, your loved ones, or your pets start showing these signs. ​These monikers effortlessly paint a portrait of the plants’ luscious waxy green leaves that look as though they belong in a tropical paradise. Native to eastern Africa, this drought resistant plant allows even the most neglect ful of owners to easily achieve a thriving ZZ plant of their own. This means that keeping a ZZ plant will help purify the air and add extra freshness to your home. Just make sure to wash your hands to avoid any irritation and to avoid spreading the crystals to sensitive areas such as your eyes. As long as you do not directly ingest a ZZ plant the worst you could expect is minor skin irritation, but even that is very easy to avoid. While all parts of the ZZ plant produce Calcium Oxalate, it would be unlikely that it could kill you. Zz plant zamioculcas zamiifolia a step by guide our zz plant amiesue poisonous plants in the home better homes gardens is the zz plant poisonous to cats dogs or children is a zz plant poisonous and how to grow them safely smart zz plant care exposure watering propagation diseases pests. We are independently owned and the opinions expressed here are our own. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee with a BS in conservation and environmental science. In fact, they’re poisonous to all animals and humans! The ‘ZZ plant’ is one of many common names for Zamioculcas zamiifolia. In the 2 days I had it in the house, she chewed a bunch of the leaves, and I'm sure she did ingest some of them. Here is my story: I have two dogs; an 11 year old hound named Marcus and a 3 month old mixed breed puppy named Buddy. A rumor that ZZ plants cause cancer started making rounds in the 2010s, but that information is also not accurate. This lovely plant can still be safely kept in your home if you follow a few easy guidelines. This is usually easy to do with your typical watering can. Dr. Leonard Perry, a horticulture professor at the University of Vermont, states that “You may see other mentions of this plant being highly toxic, claims which are overblown and have not been proven” (source). Cold beverages or frozen treats help the best,” (. A new plant can be started from a single leaf by following simple instructions but it does not happen quickly. For a long time, the ZZ plant has only occupied malls and waiting rooms, but it also makes a great house plant. Do not panic! While this is not strictly necessary, it can be a good idea. Is a ZZ plant poisonous? Zamioculcas zamiifolia is also known as aroid palm, eternity plant, and fat boy. The ZZ plant is an easy to grow and care for indoor plant that displays small glossy leaves on stems which can grow up to 3 ft long indoors. The ZZ Plant, who’s actual name is Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is pretty popular with plant parents everywhere, both beginner and advanced.It’s typically dubbed a “plant of steel” which basically means it’s hard to kill and resilient to overwatering, accidental dropping, ignoring, verbal mocking, and dungeon lighting. This is what causes skin irritation on contact with the sap and can cause irritation of the internal tissues if ingested. The majority of things you have maybe heard about the plant are blown out of proportion. If you have small children, their safety in your home is paramount. This passion has led her to work in greenhouses, landscaping, and academic plant research at multiple university's. The amount of sap that one would have to ingest would be very significant to cause more than tummy upset. An initial toxicological experiment conducted by the University of Bergen in 2015 on extracts from Z. zamiifolia using brine shrimp as a lethality assay did not indicate lethality to the shrimp even at concentrations of extracts up to 1 mg/mL. The ZZ plant is a member of the Arum family. Disclaimer     Privacy policy     Contact. Your ZZ plant belongs to a poisonous family of plants, the Araceae family. Unfortunately, ZZ plants are poisonous to cats and dogs. You can also take an extra step of precaution by wearing gloves while handling the plant. Remove any plant material still in their mouth. Such as on a shelf, table (depending on the height), hanging from the ceiling, or any other spots in your home that are out of reach to your children and pets. The hardy ZZ plant is not too picky about lighting either. As a result, it made its way into the houses of beginner and advanced gardeners alike. If you do touch the plant while repotting, moving, or other situations, it is OK! After logging in you can close it and return to this page. The ZZ Plant is considered a Caution, (mildly toxic), plant. Please log in again. In the case of notoriously curious cats, who seem to believe no place is off bounds, you can use different deterrents to keep them at bay. Enjoy your stay at Smart Garden Guide. To learn more about just how toxic the ZZ plant is and how to safely handle and care for it, read on. It is a poisonous plant, but it is not a fatal poison. In fact, during the 2010s there were false rumors that ZZ was so toxic that the plant caused cancer, and was so dangerous that people wore gloves when handling it. There is no evidence that the plant gives out any poisonous chemicals into the air. Both dogs, and especially cats, have great skills in getting to hard to reach areas of your home when they want to, so putting your ZZ plant out of reach isn’t always possible. Yes, ZZ plants are poisonous to both humans and pets. It can be toxic to humans or pets if not handled properly, so exercise extra caution if you plan to place it at home or office. Other names include eternity plant, aroid palm, Zanzibar gem and my personal favorite, the emerald palm. 10 Best culinary and medicinal herbs To Grow In Hydroponics, 10 Fastest Growing Fruit Trees for Your Backyard Orchard, 10 Stunning Flowers You can grow hydroponically, 11 of Our Favorite Types of birch trees For Your Landscape, How to Kill Unwanted Grass in Flower Beds, 15 Best White Perennial Flowers To dress Your garden, Fertilizing Tomatoes: How and When to Fertilize Your Tomato Plants, Alocasia Plant (African mask) – Types, Care, And Growing Tips, Types Viburnum Shrubs: 13 Amazing Viburnum Plant Varieties For The Garden, How to Get Rid of Ants in Your Potted Plants, Burning sensation of the mouth and throat, “VERY rarely, swelling of the upper airway occurs, making it difficult to breathe.” (. For those with children or pets, it is important to find a good place to put your ZZ plant that is out of reach to them. Born in northern Wisconsin, Emily has always had a passion for plants. Either take a leaf or a small branch and plop it into some water or some damp soil, and then be prepared to wait a few months! If you don’t want to be tied down by a high maintenance houseplant but desire something lusher and more appealing than a cactus, this may be the perfect plant for you! Such as avoiding bare skin contact, not directly ingesting the plant, and keeping it away from pets and children. The ZZ plant is very seldom seen to suffer from pests or disease. Unfortunately, if you have an extremely determined pet who commonly eats plants, this may not be the right plant for you. Although direct contact with this plant will only cause minor discomfort it should still be avoided. In addition to all of this, itrarely has disease or pest problems, produces beautiful flowers similar to the peace lily, and can easily be propagated!With so many spectacular qualities all wrapped up in just one plant it’s no wonder that it has gained such popularity. Like. Not only is this plant beautiful,it is also incredibly easy to take care of. This plant tolerates neglect, so you won't need to come in contact with it much. Pests and Diseases. The plant naturally produces these crystals to function as a form of defense against predators, and to regulate calcium in the plant tissue. So,it is best to remediate the situation as quickly as possible to keep the negative reactions to a minimum. Many people think that because their cats and dogs are smaller than they are, that the ZZ plant can have more of an impact. Early morning or late afternoon sun is acceptable, therefore try to aim for a North, East or West facing window. Are ZZ plants poisonous? The calcium oxalate crystals are extremely small, and very sharp. Is the ZZ plant poisonous? The unique leaf patterning and overall appearance makes the ZZ plant a wonderful addition to any room. Just as you have done by reading this article, knowing which of your houseplants is toxic is half the battle. Claims of high poison levels have raised concerns that this plant may be unsafe for your home.

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