Are snowdrops poisonous?

What you should consider with children, dogs and cats

Created: 07/03/2022, 15:12

By: Andrea Stettner

In spring, snowdrops bloom in many gardens and parks.

But beware: they are poisonous!

© Silas Stein/Imago

Snowdrops are considered to be the heralds of spring.

But the popular flowers are said to be poisonous, especially for children and animals.

Is that correct?

The small snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis), also known as the common snowdrop, is found by flower lovers in shady and damp deciduous forests in particular.

In the garden or parks, the early bloomers are usually used.

But are snowdrops really harmless – or are they poisonous?

Also read:

How to plant and care for snowdrops in your garden.

Are snowdrops really poisonous?

Yes,

,

.

A particularly high proportion of toxic amaryllidaceae alkaloids can be found in the bulbs of the amaryllis family.

The popular spring flowers are "only" slightly poisonous compared to other poisonous plants.

However, you should be careful when dealing with snowdrops.

"Eating parts of plants can lead to abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea," informs the

portal .

According to the portal, if larger quantities of the plant parts are consumed, increased salivation, circulatory problems and constricted pupils can also occur –

Children in particular, but also pets such as dogs or cats, come into contact with the poisonous plant parts when playing and are therefore at risk.

In the spring, small children should therefore not go into the garden unsupervised.

If you suspect snowdrop poisoning, you should act quickly and consult a doctor or contact the poison information center.

Also read:

Why are snowdrops poisonous?

With their poisonous effect, snowdrops protect themselves from predators such as voles.

Other spring flowers also have a toxic effect, such as March cups or daffodils.

By the way:

These flowers belong in the Easter bouquet.

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