Caladium

• oxalic acid
• asparagine
• a protein found in this plant

Note: Leaves and stems are the most dangerous if eaten in quantity.

Where Found:

• caladium esculentum
• caladium bicolor

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms:

• body as a whole
  • burning in mouth
  • swelling of tongue
  • swelling of mouth

• eyes, ears, toes, and throat
  • burning in throat

• gastrointestinal
  • nausea and/or vomiting
  • diarrhea

Home Treatment:
Wipe out the mouth with a cold, wet cloth, and give milk to drink.

Before Calling Poison Control:
Determine the following information:

• the patient's age, weight, and condition
• the name of the plant and the parts eaten
• the amount swallowed
• the time it was swallowed

Call Poison Control:
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Bring the plant with you to the emergency room for identification.

What to Expect:

• Treat the symptoms.

Prognosis:
Oxalate plants may cause swelling severe enough to block the airway, but this is very rare.