Question: Are poinsettias or any other holiday plants poisonous?

Answer: Contrary to a stubborn myth that refuses to die, poinsettias are not poisonous to humans. Consuming large amounts of any plant can cause cramping and diarrhea, but no one has ever died or become seriously ill from eating poinsettias. Your pets, however, may have a bad reaction if they munch on these plants, so you`d be wise to keep them out of Fido`s range.

The plant to really beware of this season is mistletoe. While standing beneath it may earn you the pleasure of a kiss or two, ingesting the stuff will cause severe stomach cramps and diarrhea and can even be fatal. If you decide to hang a sprig over your doorway, make sure it`s well secured and won`t be knocked to the floor where pets and young children could happen upon it.

Holly and pyracantha, also frequently used in holiday decorations, are toxic as well — keep them out of reach. If you suspect poisoning from any plant source, contact your local poison control center immediately. Add the number to your list of emergency numbers by the phone.

Also, keep in mind that plants can present other types of hazards to young children, even if they`re not poisonous. Check their soil to make sure it contains no rocks or solid items that your child could choke on or surface fertilizer that could be toxic.

The most frequently overlooked plant-related hazard is actually that posed by heavy pots that could fall on your child. Never place a heavy pot on a stand that could be shaken or toppled by a determined toddler. And watch out for dangling leaves or vines that he/she could use to pull a large plant over on himself/herself.

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