Foxtail ferns are an attractive and popular houseplant for many. Named after the animal, these plants have fragile branches that resemble the tails of foxes. However, before bringing any plant home or to your workspace, it is essential to understand whether it is safe for your family, pets, and visitors. One question many people ask is whether the foxtail fern is harmful to humans or not. This article will explore the topic and provide you with useful information about foxtails and what to do if you ingest them.
What is a foxtail fern?
Foxtail ferns are scientifically known as Asparagus densiflorus. They are part of the lily family and are a type of asparagus fern. The ferns can grow up to 2 feet tall and can quickly spread out as a houseplant, especially in the right environment.
What does foxtail fern look like?
Foxtail ferns are unique and attractive plants that have a distinctive appearance. Here’s a description of what they look like:
- Foliage: Foxtail ferns have long, upright, and densely packed stems that resemble fluffy green tails, which is why they are named “foxtail” ferns. The stems are clad with feathery, needle-like leaves that are soft and fern-like in appearance. The leaves are a bright green color, giving the plant a lush and vibrant look.
- Growth habit: The foxtail fern has a clumping growth habit, meaning it forms a dense mound of foliage. The stems arise from a central point and radiate outward, creating a symmetrical and cylindrical shape. As the plant matures, it can reach a height of about 2 to 3 feet and a width of 2 to 4 feet.
- Flowers and berries: Foxtail ferns produce small white or pale-yellow flowers during the spring or summer. These flowers are not particularly showy and are often unremarkable. After flowering, small red berries may appear, adding a touch of color to the plant.
Are foxtails poisonous?
The foxtail fern is only mildly poisonous to both humans and pets. Swallowing small amounts will likely not cause symptoms. If your skin comes into contact with a foxtail fern, it may cause minor irritation from a compound known as sapogenin. It’s always a good idea to exercise caution and keep foxtail ferns out of reach of children and pets who may be prone to ingesting them.
Are foxtail fern berries poisonous to humans?
The foxtail fern berries are usually produced in the fall and winter seasons and may tempt both pets and humans with their sweet, candy-like smell.
When eaten, the foxtail fern berry can cause a range of minor symptoms, including upset stomach and vomiting. The severity of these symptoms depends on the number of berries ingested and children and adults typically would not swallow enough to pose a serious problem. Pets are more adventurous when it comes to plants and their symptoms may be more severe.
What to do if you or someone you know accidentally ingests foxtail fern berries
Call the Missouri Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 if you have consumed any part of a foxtail plant. At the Missouri Poison Center, our registered nurses and pharmacists are here 24/7/365 to answer any questions you may have regarding poisonings. All calls are free and confidential.