The Foxtail Fern (Asparagus densiflorus ‘Myersii’) is a popular ornamental plant known for its dense, plume-like foliage, commonly seen in gardens and as a houseplant. Despite its common name, it is a member of the Asparagus family, not a true fern as its common name suggests. The answer to whether the Foxtail Fern is poisonous to humans is yes, but the effects are typically of low severity. While exposure can cause uncomfortable symptoms, serious complications are rare in healthy adults.
Identifying the Toxic Components of Foxtail Fern
The primary toxic agents found throughout the Foxtail Fern are chemical compounds called steroidal saponins. These substances are naturally occurring compounds that have a soap-like, frothing quality when mixed with water. Saponins protect the plant from pests and are responsible for the irritating effects observed upon contact or ingestion.
The small, bright red berries produced by the plant pose the highest risk of ingestion, especially to small children who might be attracted to their appearance. While the berries contain the saponins, large quantities are usually required to cause severe systemic effects in adults. The foliage, stems, and sap all contain these irritating compounds.
Contact with the plant’s sap, which is released when stems or leaves are broken, is the typical cause of external reactions. The saponins in the sap can penetrate the skin barrier, leading to localized discomfort. This means that both eating and simply handling the Foxtail Fern can result in adverse reactions.
Symptoms Following Exposure
Exposure to the Foxtail Fern generally results in two types of reactions: dermal irritation and gastrointestinal distress. Contact with the sap or broken stems can lead to allergic dermatitis, characterized by localized redness, swelling, and itching. Repeated or prolonged exposure may cause the formation of blisters.
If the sap contacts the eyes, it can cause immediate irritation, burning, and excessive tearing. These external reactions are generally self-limiting, resolving on their own once the irritant is removed.
Ingestion of the red berries or foliage causes internal symptoms centered in the digestive system. Eating any part of the plant can lead to gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. While these symptoms are uncomfortable, they are rarely life-threatening in adults due to the relatively low concentration of toxins. Small children may experience more pronounced symptoms due to their smaller body mass.
Immediate Action and When to Seek Medical Help
For dermal contact with the sap, the affected area should be washed immediately and thoroughly with soap and water. Any clothing that may have come into contact with the plant’s juices should be removed to prevent further exposure.
If ingestion of berries or foliage has occurred, the mouth should be rinsed out with water, and the person should immediately contact a poison control center or a medical professional. Poison control centers offer expert guidance on managing plant ingestions and determining the severity of the exposure.
Professional medical intervention is necessary if symptoms are severe or signs of complication appear. Seek urgent medical care if the person experiences uncontrollable vomiting, signs of dehydration such as reduced urination or lethargy, or difficulty breathing. If a skin rash worsens, spreads, or develops into severe blistering, it warrants a doctor’s evaluation.