The Foxtail Palm (Wodyetia bifurcata) is a widely cultivated, single-trunked palm species prized in tropical and subtropical landscaping for its unique, full fronds. The bright, colorful fruits that develop on the palm are considered toxic and are not safe for consumption by humans or pets. The danger is due to chemical compounds within the fruit, which cause immediate and intense irritation. The palm is an ornamental species only, and its fruit should never be ingested.
Identifying the Foxtail Palm and Its Fruit
The Foxtail Palm is named for its distinctive, bushy fronds that resemble a fox’s tail, arching gracefully from the crown. Its smooth, gray trunk is topped by a waxy, light-green structure known as the crownshaft, from which the fronds emerge. The palm typically grows to a height of 20 to 30 feet.
Fruit production occurs just beneath the crownshaft in large, heavy clusters. Individual fruits, technically called drupes, are approximately 2 inches long, similar to a small olive or egg. The fruit matures through a noticeable color change, starting green before ripening to a vibrant orange-red or bright red hue.
Toxicity Status of the Foxtail Palm Fruit
The hazardous nature of the Foxtail Palm fruit stems from the presence of microscopic, needle-shaped crystals known as raphides. These raphides are a form of insoluble calcium oxalate, a compound common in many plants within the palm family (Arecaceae).
These calcium oxalate crystals are densely packed within the fruit’s cells, acting as a mechanical irritant upon contact with sensitive membranes. When the fruit is chewed or broken down, the raphides are forcefully propelled into the tissues of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. This action causes immediate and severe localized pain. The mechanical and chemical irritation caused by these crystals is the primary source of the fruit’s toxicity.
Symptoms of Accidental Ingestion and Medical Response
Accidental ingestion of the fruit immediately causes localized, intense physiological symptoms due to the mechanical irritation of the raphides. The initial reaction includes a sensation of burning and intense pain in the mouth, tongue, and throat, followed quickly by visible swelling of the lips, tongue, and pharynx.
The resulting swelling can lead to temporary hoarseness and difficulty swallowing or speaking. In rare, severe cases, swelling in the upper airway may impede normal breathing, requiring emergency medical intervention. Less immediate symptoms can include general gastrointestinal upset, nausea, and vomiting.
Immediate First Aid
If exposure occurs, immediate action is necessary to minimize the reaction and remove the irritant. Residue should be wiped out of the mouth. The irritated area can be soothed by offering a cool liquid, such as milk, yogurt, or ice cream, as the calcium in dairy products may help neutralize the oxalates.
When to Seek Emergency Help
Following initial first aid, contact Poison Control immediately at 800-222-1222 for professional advice. Emergency medical services should be contacted without delay if the person or pet exhibits difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, or severe and rapid swelling.