Lily of the Valley
Convallaria majalis · Asparagaceae
How it looks
Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) is a plant in which a slender flower stalk rises between two broad oval leaves, with small white bell-shaped flowers hanging in a row facing one direction. The fragrance is very strong and clean. Height 6-12 in (15-30 cm).
Mild caution — stomach irritation
All parts of Lily of the Valley contain cardiac glycosides (convallatoxin); ingestion can cause vomiting and diarrhea that may worsen into arrhythmias, a slowed heart rate, and heart failure. Even small amounts can affect the heart, so an immediate vet visit is needed.
Guide for parents
An occasional nibble on Lily of the Valley rarely leads to serious trouble, but its saponins can irritate the stomach and mucous membranes, causing mild gastrointestinal upset. Make a habit of clearing away fallen leaves and broken stems the same day, and keep the pot somewhere your cat can't reach. If symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat shows a marked loss of appetite, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, depression, diarrhea
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Convallaria majalis
- Common name
- Lily of the Valley
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Cardenolides (convallarin and other cardiac glycosides)
- Source
- ASPCA
