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Begonia maculata, the trout begonia, is very popular because of its clearly marked leaves. But is it really easy to keep indoors? Or is the beautiful trout begonia even poisonous?

In a nutshell

  • Trout begonia sap is poisonous
  • The causes of the symptoms of poisoning are oxalic acid and calcium oxalate
  • Small mammals and birds should avoid Begonia maculata

Toxic or not?

The question of whether the trout begonia is poisonous can be answered with a clear yes. Although not all species of Begonia maculata are to be assessed as critical and, in particular, slightly toxic specimens appear more unpleasant than actually dangerous, the situation with the species also known as polka-dot begonia is clear. Especially children and old people, but also every other person who has intensive contact with the plant can be affected.

Toxic plant parts

The danger comes from the juice of the begonia, more precisely from its ingredients. Therefore, all components of the plant through which the plant sap flows must ultimately be included in the consideration:

  • stems
  • leaves
  • blossoms
  • root

Notice: While the roots are comparatively dry and therefore not very dangerous, the stems and flowers, which are heavily drained, are the particularly critical parts of the plant!

Contained Poisons

Two substances in particular are responsible for the fact that the trout begonia is poisonous:

  • oxalic acid
  • calcium oxalate

Both substances are present in numerous plants that are generally considered uncritical and are sometimes even eaten. An example is rhubarb. However, the safety there is “only” based on the quantities contained. In the trout begonia, both ingredients have such a massive effect that the reference "poisonous" is appropriate and correct in any case.

Possible effects

The consequences of contact with the plants are wide-ranging and usually range in the following range:

  • skin redness
  • mucosal irritations
  • nausea
  • Vomit
  • diarrhea (less common)
  • shortness of breath
  • Temporary or permanent impairment of vision (with direct eye contact)

Notice: Even if the plant juices on your hands and fingers don't show an immediate effect, you should wash your hands thoroughly after each contact. However, even after hours, the substances can quickly get from the hands into the mouth and eyes through unintentional contact.

Toxic to which species?

In addition to humans, various animal species also suffer from the poison of the trout begonia:

  • dogs
  • cats
  • Small mammals such as rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs
  • birds
  • Livestock (for large quantities, e.g. after eating plants or parts of plants)

As you can easily see, the trout begonia is poisonous to the vast majority of common pet species, so keeping pets with this species of begonia and other members of this species family that are classified as critical requires at least some precautionary measures.

frequently asked Questions

What do I do if I come into contact with the poison of Begonia maculata?

If the plant sap gets on your skin or mucous membranes, you should rinse the affected areas thoroughly with plenty of water. If swallowed, it is always advisable to see a doctor. If severe symptoms occur, be sure to call an ambulance.

What is calcium oxalate?

Calcium oxalate, one of the toxins found in polka dot begonia, is closely related to the better known oxalic acid, which it also contains. This is a salt of oxalic acid that results from a reaction with the calcium in plants.

How else do you know calcium oxalate?

On the one hand, this salt of oxalic acid is contained in many poisonous plants. On the other hand, it is also the main component of the kidney stones that occur again and again in humans and cause symptoms. They can develop when the kidneys have to process a lot of oxalic acid from the human body.

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Category:

Indoor plants