Common name: Peruvian lily. To be safe, wear plastic gloves when working with alstroemeria; ordinary cloth gardening gloves may allow the irritant, tulipalin, to reach your skin. Lily-of-the-Incas or Peruvian Lily is a herbaceous perennial that can be grown as an outdoor perennial in the more temperate climates, or as a container plant that … It’s named after Swedish botanist Baron Klas von Alstroemer who collected its seeds from Spain in 1753. If ingested, immediately call the Poison Control Center -- (800) 222-1222 -- or your doctor. It is a plant that can be poisonous and cause irritation, but despite this, it is one of the most cultivated and then cut and used in beautiful flower arrangements. The rashes resulting from poison oak and poison ivy are contact dermatitis. This article describes the varieties of Alstroemeria that are available, and provides tips on caring for the plants and how to ensure a good supply of beautiful cut flowers for the home. Alstroemeria's one drawback is its toxicity. The beautiful alstroemeria, also known as Peruvian lily or lily of the Incas, is native to the Andes. General description: A clumping, perennial herbaceous plant to 1m high with underground tubers.Commonly grown as a garden ornamental. They also make long-lasting cut flowers. Alstroemeria are not traditional lilies which are extremely toxic to cats. Cultivars in other colors are now widely available, according to the Missouri Botanical Garden. Alstroemeria. Every part of the alstroemeria can be toxic. Category 4 toxins cause dermatologic—skin—reactions, such as "a skin rash or irritation." Minor Toxicity: Ingestion of these plants may cause minor illnesses such as vomiting or diarrhea. A great addition to borders and containers, alstroemerias produce showy flowers in a wide choice of colours from early summer to the first frosts. If you think that your animal is ill or may have ingested a poisonous substance, contact your local veterinarian or our 24-hour emergency poison hotline directly at 1-888-426-4435. Family: Alstroemeriaceae. Peruvian lily is non-toxic to cats. The beautiful alstroemeria, also known as Peruvian lily or lily of the Incas, is native to the Andes. Alstroemeria ‘Rome’ has bright, cerise-pink flowers with darker streaks and contrasting grey-green anthers. It’s important to educate yourself on the harmful effects poisonous flowers can have. A study by researcher Lars P. Christensen of the Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences, published in the December 1999 "Contact Dermatitis," revealed that cutting alstromeria releases the allergen tulipalin A from its damaged areas into the air around the plants. This makes it a good choice for gardeners looking for a versatile addition for their backyard cutting gardens. Alstroemeria Alstroemeria, also known as a Peruvian Lily, is one of my personal favorite flowers. Originated from Peru, South America, this flower is a member of a liliaceous plant from the genus Alstroemeria. If consumed, any part of the plant has enough toxins to seriously sicken a person or kill a small animal. If anyone ingests any part of the alstroemeria, call your local poison control hotline or your physician immediately. A small amount of tulipalin also escaped from an undamaged flower. They bloom vibrant flowers in all colors imaginable, except true blue and grow wildly particularly during summer months. Native to Brazil and Chile, these plants are cultivated around the world and appear in cut-flower arrangements. Florists and greenhouse or field workers who handle it on a regular basis are most at risk of contact dermatitis. See below Description. Copyright Leaf Group Ltd. // Leaf Group Lifestyle. Peruvian lilies (Alstroemeria spp. Tulipalin is a contact allergen, which means it causes a reaction on touch, as well as an ingested allergen, causing a reaction if swallowed. The plants benefit from deadheading but you may also want to try pruning Peruvian lilies to create shorter, less leggy stems. Excellent in summer borders, especially with roses, they can also be used in containers. Lower your risk of becoming tulipalin-sensitive by wearing impermeable plastic gloves. Plants that cause toxic reactions in humans are likely to do the same in pets, cautions the California Poison Action Line. Daffodils (Narcissus spp.) She has written for "MetroPulse," "Maryville-Alcoa Daily Times" and "Some" monthly. Alstroemeria is a genus of 50 species and is native to South America. See below Description. Avoiding these striking garden and cut flowers because of potential allergies isn't always necessary. The cause of this toxicity is the compound tulipalin, which is produced when plant tissues are damaged—for example by a cut. Garden alstroemeria will be best suited to a perennial plant border. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Alstroemeria is often grown in a greenhouse for cut flowers, but some species and hybrids, such as A. ligtu will overwinter outside in North Carolina. Toxicity Class (third column in table below). Other names of the alstroemeria flower are the lily of the Incas, the Peruvian lily and also the parrot lily. The Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences indicated that tulipalin may be an airborne allergen, so protect yourself with a long-sleeved shirt and long pants when you handle the bulbs, plants and flowers. The reaction can linger for several weeks, notes dermatologist and King County master gardener Dr. Christina Merino, M.D, MPH, of the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries. Plan the perfect garden with our interactive tool →, Mysterious Alstroemeria image by LOA from, Missouri Botanical Garden: Alstroemeria Aurea, "Contact Dermatitis"; Direct Release of the Allergen Tulipalin A from Alstroemeria Cut Flowers: a Possible Source of Airborne Contact Dermatitis? Passionate for travel and the well-written word, Judy Wolfe is a professional writer with a Bachelor of Arts in English literature from Cal Poly Pomona and a certificate in advanced floral design. There are a variety of poisonous flowers that can be harmful, or even deadly, to humans and animals if ingested or touched. Jennifer Spirko has been writing professionally for more than 20 years, starting at "The Knoxville Journal." Special Occasions for the Alstroemeria Flowers. That being said, delicate flowers offer beauty that may look harmless, but appearances can be deceiving. Like most true lilies, the plant material and flowers are too poisonous to eat or use for tea. 1. Alstroemeriaare a little poisonous to cats. Phonetic Spelling al-stro-MER-ee-ah This plant has high severity poison characteristics. Alstroemeria, also known as Peruvian, parrot, or princess lily, as well as lily of the Incas, is an exceptional cutting garden flower in the Alstroemeriaceae family. Ordinary cloth gardening gloves may not protect you from alstroemeria's toxin, tulipalin. Instead, these alstroemeria beauties are non-toxic to cats, relatively inexpensive and last for a really long time. It’s ideal for growing in a mixed ornamental border or as part of a container display, and makes an excellent cut flower. People develop sensitivity to alstroemeria's allergens over time. The research also showed that tulipalin A and other tuliposide allergens were present in the stems, leaves and flowers of the plants. They might herald spring’s arrival, but did you know that their bulbs are … Pets are at risk for swallowing toxic garden plants. Since Alstroemeria is from the "Tulipa" family, its bulbs contain tulipalin A. ; Lars P. Christensen; December 1999, Washington State Department of Labor and Industries; "King County Master Gardeners Newsletter"; Phytodermatitis: Skin Reactions Caused by Plants; Christina Marino, MD, MPH; August 2001, NCSU Consumer Extension Plant Fact Sheet: Alstroemeria. Alstroemeria, or Peruvian lily, contains the toxic irritant tulipalin. Flowers that are non-toxic to cats. An exceptional cut flower, alstroemeria (Alstroemeria aurantiaca) is now gaining popularity as a garden plant outside its native South American habitat. Perennial where winters are mild, alstroemeria is a tuberous plant with arching, narrow green leaves. Her thousands of published articles cover topics from travel and gardening to pet care and technology. In spring and summer, its multiple stems bear clusters of yellow or orange, lily-like blooms. The Alstroemeria that we sell is a perennial plant and will die back in the winter. Most are hardy and easy to grow, blooming generously for many years. Celebrate an anniversary of your friendship with a life long best friend by handing over a giant bouquet of colorful Alstroemeria blossoms. What plants are toxic to dogs? The 16 Most Common Poisonous Plants for Dogs Contact medical professionals if you swallow any part of alstroemeria or touch the sap. Are Peruvian Lilies Poisonous Flowers for Cats?. A study by researcher Lars P. Christensen of the Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences, published in the December 1999 "Contact Dermatitis," revealed that cutting alstromeria releases the allergen tulipalin A from its damaged areas into the air around the plants. Recognized by the scientific name Convallaria majalis, the lily of the valley or sometimes written lily-of-the-valley is a highly poisonous, rhizomatous herbaceous perennial native to Europe and Central Asia. Its excretions can cause severe eye and skin irritation. While not deathly toxic, they can cause nasty tummy or skin irritation when eaten (mouth irritation, vomiting, digestive irritation). To search for photos of these plants, check the UC Berkeley CalPhotos: Plants site.. Alstroemeria, also known as Peruvian Lily, is a genus of about 60 species of perennials in the family Alstroemeriaceae, native to South America. One drawback to this type of flower is that alstroemeria is poisonous. Further effects can include blisters, skin fissures or eye irritation. If you still develop a rash, call your doctor or your local poison control center. Common name: Peruvian lily. Less Harmful Lilies (risk to dog and cats) and peace lily (Spathiphyllum spp.) contains tulipalin A, a toxin that may cause gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting or diarrhea if ingested in large amounts. Despite their pleasant appearance, alstroemeria plants posses toxins that are poisonous to cats. Alstroemeria are a little poisonous to cats. In cases of skin contact, wash the affected skin immediately and call poison control or your physician for a recommendation of a specific response based on the symptoms. Alstroemeria is a perennial plant also known as Lily of the Incas or Peruvian lily. The reason the alstroemeria lily can cause mild irritation to cats is because they contain ‘tulipalin A’, which is a toxin. Contact dermatitis after exposure different to tulipalin normally requires at least a day to surface. Comprehensive listing of flowers that are non-toxic to cats so that you can choose a cat-friendly bouquet. Spirko holds a Master of Arts from the Shakespeare Institute, Stratford-on-Avon, England. Make sure that the pot you are planting the alstroemeria into is big enough to keep the plant moist in warm weather. All Rights Reserved. Although referred to as a Peruvian lily, alstroemeria is not a true lily and is generally considered a pet-friendly choice that is not known to be toxic to cats or dogs. While not deathly toxic, they can cause nasty tummy or skin irritation when eaten (mouth irritation, vomiting, digestive irritation). Phonetic Spelling al-stro-MER-ee-ah This plant has high severity poison characteristics. Its blooms can last for up to two weeks in water. Alstroemeria can cause both ingestion and contact reactions. This list contains plants that have been reported as having systemic effects on animals and/or intense effects on the gastrointestinal tract. While humans may take precautions to avoid contact with the toxins in alstroemerias, pets are at particular risk for accidental ingestion. Don’t touch your face, mouth and eyes while handling alstroemeria. This plant's lovely appearance, however, belies its toxicity: All species of alstroemeria—especially cut or damaged parts—must be handled with care. Is the alstroemeria flower poisonous to cats? The ASPCA suggests that cats ingesting alstroemeria might experience nausea and vomiting. This tuberous perennial bears orange or yellow blooms, with hybrid varieties available in a wider range of colors. This long-lived perennial is easy to grow as long as you provide it with moist, fertile, and well-drained soil in part or full shade. The Peruvian lily (Alstroemeria spp.) Alstroemeria flowers are not fragrant but they have a vase life of about two weeks. An exceptional cut flower, alstroemeria (Alstroemeria aurantiaca) is now gaining popularity as a garden plant outside its native South American habitat. This plant is also poisonous to humans who have skin contact with the sap that comes from the plant. You should mulch the plant well in winter in an attempt to ensure survival. Botanical name: Alstroemeria spp.. Other common names: Inca lily. Identification Alstroemeria plants, aka Peruvian lilies, grow from tuberous rhizomes. She has taught writing at North Carolina State University and the University of Tennessee. Contact dermatitis after exposure different to tulipalin normally requires at least a day to surface. The toxic substance in alstroemeria plants is tulipalin. The Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences indicated that tulipalin may be an airborne allergen, so protect yourself with a long-sleeved shirt and long pants when you handle the bulbs, plants and flowers. There are about 80 species native to South America, with the greatest diversity in Chile. This tuberous perennial bears orange or yellow blooms, with hybrid varieties available in a wider range of colors. For best results, plant bulbs rather than seeds. Yes, you can. By creating an account you agree to the Hunker, Missouri Botanical Garden Kemper Center for Home Gardening: Alstroemeria aurea, Botanical Dermatology Database: Alstroemeriaceae, California Poison Action Line: Toxic Ornamental Plants, NCSU College of Agricultural and Life Sciences/NC Cooperative Extension: Poisonous Plants, The Bulb Society: Gallery of the World’s Bulbs: Alstroemeria, USDA Plants Profile: Classification: Genus Alstroemeria L. These hardy perennials have flowers resembling lilies, adding interest and visual contrast to gardens. To be on the safe side, locate plants where they won't tempt your pets, and keep the cut flowers out of their reach as well. The tulipalin A component includes potentially harmful toxins that can cause diarrhea, mouth irritation, vomiting, salivation and digestive irritation in cats. The California Poison Action Line advises that most plants toxic for humans are also toxic for animals. Major Toxicity: These plants may cause serious illness or death. It is interesting to mention the leaves of this flower, which grow upside. Because any part of the alstroemeria plant can cause a reaction, gardeners may experience a reaction from such everyday handling as transplanting bulbs or cutting flowers. They are listed under ASPCA’s non-toxic flowers for pets. Any fan of cut flowers will instantly recognize Alstroemeria blooms, but these spectacular long-lived flowers are also excellent plants for the garden. The alstroemeria flower is a long-lasting plant and people love to have it in a garden. The California Poison Action Line lists alstroemeria in both Category 2 and Category 4. ... (Alstroemeria) Not to be confused with Lilies of the genera Lilium and Hemerocallis, which are highly toxic to cats. Tulipalin may cause contact dermatitis, an allergic skin reaction, in sensitive people. ), also called lily of the Incas, produce several small blooms on each stem. Alstroemerias have long been a staple of cottage gardens, but modern cultivars have an extended flowering season, with larger blooms and more vivid colours. A small amount of tulipalin also escaped from an undamaged flower. Click to see full answer Alstroemeria pelegrina is also known as several flower names, such as wild orchids, Peruvian lily, or lily of the Incas.. In the United States, the flower is hardy to Zone 7, but it requires winter protection. The research also showed that tulipalin A and other tuliposide allergens were present in the stems, leaves … Alstroemeria has become a stalwart of the commercial cut flower trade, as the flowers are colourful and reliable, and last for several weeks in a vase. Learn which plants thrive in your Hardiness Zone with our new interactive map! Alstroemeria, or Peruvian lily, contains the toxic irritant tulipalin. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number: (888) 426-4435 . Avoiding these striking garden and cut flowers because of potential allergies isn't always necessary. Wash any areas that come in contact with alstroemeria immediately, advises the California Poison Action Line. Can you grow alstroemeria in pots? This tropical beauty has long stems bearing attractive, trumpet-shaped flowers in a wide range of colors. The sap of the alstroemeria plant contains the compound Tuliposide A, whose enzymes produce the allergen, according to the Botanical Dermatology Database. Also known as Peruvian Lily, the flowers were first grown in Peru, Brazil and Chile. Petunias are striking flowering plants native to South America. Remove gloves as soon as you are finished, and wash your hands in warm, soapy water; be careful not to touch your face, especially your eyes or mouth, until you have done so. The research also showed that tulipalin A and other tuliposide allergens were present in the stems, leaves and flowers of the plants. You may like Allium Roseum Flower Tulipalin may cause contact dermatitis, an allergic skin reaction, in sensitive people. Wash your clothing and gloves as soon as possible after working with it. The Toronto Botanical Garden suggests that nausea and vomiting also result from ingesting it in large amounts. Category 2 toxins have "mild toxicity," meaning that if ingested these substances, including alstroemeria, can "cause minor illnesses such as vomiting or diarrhea." About 50 species of alstroemeria flowers are of different colors and sizes which also helps to make different combinations in gardens. You can plant bulbs in containers or directly in your garden. Characteristics of Alstroemeria pixabay.com. About 80 species native to South America these striking garden and cut flowers because of potential is... Swedish botanist Baron Klas von Alstroemer who collected its seeds from Spain in.... Lovely appearance, alstroemeria plants, aka Peruvian lilies to create shorter less... 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