Are poinsettia plants really toxic?

I'm afraid my child will eat the leaves and get really sick!

Answer

No! While they can cause skin or stomach irritation, an American Journal of Emergency Medicine study (linked below) showed no fatalities related to poinsettias.

Most cases of poinsettia ingestion involve children or pets, and usually do not require medical treatment. If eaten, diarrhea and vomiting may occur, so it is still a good idea to be careful with where you put your plants!

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  • Last Updated Jan 22, 2014
  • Views 217
  • Answered By Anna Burke