Scientific Name
Tulipa spp.
Common Name
Tulip

CAUSES ONLY LOW TOXICITY IF EATEN. SKIN IRRITATION MINOR, OR LASTING ONLY FOR A FEW MINUTES.

Characteristics

Family
Liliaceae
Plant Description
Bulbous perennial herbs; leaves alternate, simple, narrowly straplike; flowers single, erect, 6-parted, cup-shaped, of various colors.
Origin
Asia.
Where Found
Houseplant or interiorscape; florist plant; landscape in flower garden as hardy bulb.
Mode
Ingestion, dermatitis.
Poisonous Part
Bulbs, stem, flowers.
Symptoms
Stomach pain, salivation, sweating, nausea, vomiting. Skin irritation with tingling, redness, blisters, and cracks, either immediately or after a delay from contact, and may spread away from the point of contact; an allergic reaction.
Edibility
EDIBLE PARTS: Cooked bulbs were reported to be eaten during times of war and starvation.
Toxic Principle
Tulipalin, a phytoalexin; allergins; glycoprotein.
Severity
CAUSES ONLY LOW TOXICITY IF 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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