Fetterbush
Lyonia spp. · Ericaceae
How it looks
Fetterbush is an evergreen shrub in the heath family with narrow, long, leathery leaves set alternately. In spring, small white to pink bell-shaped flowers appear in rows along the branches. It reaches about 3-10 ft (1-3 m) tall, with an appearance resembling azalea and blueberry.
Dangerous — heart toxicity
All parts of Fetterbush 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
Fetterbush 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
- Lyonia spp.
- Common name
- Fetterbush
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Grayanotoxins
- Source
- ASPCA
