As the holiday season approaches the yearly tradition of decorating homes and offices is in full swing. One of the most common items that Americans use in their seasonal decorating is the poinsettia plant, but some may steer away from this tradition, as they fear that the plant is toxic. The Poinsettia is the most widely tested consumer plant on the market today. The following dispels those rumors:
- Scientific research from the Ohio State University has proved the poinsettia to be non-toxic to both humans and pets. All parts of the plants were tested, including the leaves and sap.
- According to POISINDEX, the national information center for poison control centers, a child would have to ingest 500-600 leaves in order to exceed the experimental doses that found no toxicity.
- A study by the Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University found that out of 22,793 reported poinsettia exposures there was essentially no toxicity significance of any kind. The study used national data collected by the American Association of Poison Control Centers. - As with any non-food product, however, the poinsettia is not meant to be eaten and can cause varying degrees of discomfort; therefore; the plant should be kept out of the reach of young children and curious pets.
“The professional members of the Texas State Florists’ Association would like to inform the public that the poinsettia plant is a safe and a beautiful way to decorate for the holidays,” stated Debbie Gordy, President of the Texas State Florists’ Association.
For more information, contact Bice’s Florist at (800) 255-2423.
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