Scientific Name
Hyacinthus orientalis
Common Name
Hyacinth

TOXIC ONLY IF LARGE QUANTITIES EATEN. SKIN IRRITATION MINOR, OR LASTING ONLY FOR A FEW MINUTES.

Characteristics

Family
Liliaceae
Plant Description
Bulbous perennial herb; leaves basal and narrowly strap-shaped; flowers on an erect stalk, each 6-parted, funnel-shaped, variously colored, fragrant.
Origin
Eurasia.
Where Found
Houseplant or interiorscape; landscape in flower gardens as hardy bulb, florist plant.
Mode
Ingestion, dermatitis, allergic asthma.
Poisonous Part
Bulbs, all parts.
Symptoms
Stomach cramps, salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea. Dermatitis after contact with cell sap. Possible nasal irritation and asthma in susceptible persons.
Toxic Principle
Alkaloids such as lycorine.
Severity
TOXIC ONLY IF LARGE QUANTITIES EATEN. SKIN IRRITATION MINOR, OR LASTING ONLY FOR A FEW MINUTES.

"Poisonous Plants of North Carolina," Dr. Alice B. Russell, Department of Horticultural Science; Dr. James W. Hardin, Botany; Dr. Larry Grand, Plant Pathology; and Dr. Angela Fraser, Family and Consumer Sciences; North Carolina State University. All Pictures Copyright @1997Alice B. Russell, James W. Hardin, Larry Grand. Computer programming, Miguel A. Buendia; graphics, Brad Capel.

Disclaimer: The list of poisonous plants on this web site does not necessarily include every poisonous plant that is known, or that might be found in an urban landscape or home. North Carolina State University does not advise eating any of the plants included in this web site. The information concerning edibility is taken from the literature, and the degree of reliability is unknown. We discourage the use of any of these plants for self medication. In cases of accidental exposure or ingestion, contact the Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222.

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