Daphne (also known as Mezereum) is a total standout in the garden because it’s so low-maintenance and puts on a stunning floral show. But here’s the catch: as beautiful as it is, this plant is seriously toxic. Even just brushing up against it can lead to some pretty nasty reactions.
Which parts are poisonous?
To put it simply: almost all of them. You’ll want to be extra careful around:
- The berries (these are especially dangerous)
- The seeds
- The leaves
- The bark
Avoid skin contact
The toxins found in the leaves and bark can actually enter your body through skin contact. Even a quick touch can trigger irritation, usually starting with redness and intense itching. If left untreated, it can escalate to painful inflammation and blisters.
Because of this, you should always wear heavy-duty gloves and keep your arms and legs covered whenever you’re working near your Daphne. This is especially important when you’re pruning the shrub.
What happens if the berries are eaten?
Inside those bright berries are the seeds, which are by far the most poisonous part of the entire plant. Ingesting even a tiny amount can cause immediate trouble, like swelling of the mouth and throat, excessive drooling, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to heart and circulatory issues, which can unfortunately be fatal.
Birds love them, though!
Interestingly, some bird species are totally immune to the toxins. For them, those bright red berries are actually a delicious and safe snack.
Keep your pets away
It’s not just humans who need to worry—Daphne is toxic to almost all household pets, too. Keep a close eye on your furry friends if you have this in your yard.
A note on natural medicine
You might see Daphne mentioned in homeopathic circles or natural medicine. However, because it is so incredibly toxic, you should never, ever try to create your own remedies or treat yourself with it.
First aid and what to do
If you develop a severe skin rash after touching the plant, it’s a good idea to check in with a doctor. If someone (or a pet) swallows any part of the plant, you need to act fast. Call Poison Control immediately and head to the emergency room.
Better safe than sorry
If you have toddlers or curious pets running around the yard, you might want to skip planting Daphne altogether. There are plenty of other beautiful, non-toxic shrubs that can give you that garden glow without the risk!
