Bog Laurel
Kalmia poliifolia · Ericaceae
How it looks
Bog Laurel is a small shrub of the heath family (Ericaceae), with narrow, long leathery leaves arranged in opposite pairs, the undersides whitish. In spring, pink to purple cup-shaped flowers cluster at the branch tips. It grows 12–24 in (30–60 cm) tall in bogs and moss layers.
Dangerous — heart toxicity
All parts of Bog Laurel (Bog Laurel) contain grayanotoxins; even a small amount can trigger vomiting, drooling, and low blood pressure, which may progress to heart arrhythmias and coma.
Guide for parents
Bog Laurel (Bog Laurel) is in the rhododendron family, and everything from its leaves and flowers to its nectar is dangerous. Don't bring it into a space you share with your cat. If you suspect ingestion, head to a 24-hour animal hospital right away even if the symptoms look mild. Cardiac effects can show up late, so it's a race against time. If you grow it on a balcony or in the garden, keep it completely separate from your cat's paths, and make a habit of clearing fallen flowers within the same day.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- 2–6 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, heart rhythm abnormalities
- Action
- Go to an animal hospital immediately. Don't wait, even if symptoms seem mild.
Details
- Scientific name
- Kalmia poliifolia
- Common name
- Bog Laurel
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Grayanotoxins
- Source
- ASPCA
