Is Begonia Poisonous?
As a traditional famous Chinese flower, begonias are deeply loved for their beautiful and vibrant appearance. However, controversies about their toxicity have always existed. This article will analyze the toxic characteristics of begonias from a scientific perspective and systematically explain the precautions for home care.
Analysis of Begonia Toxicity
Species Determine the Strength of Toxicity
Research by botanists has confirmed that among the approximately 200 species of the begonia family, more than ten species such as iron begonia and thorny begonia have white milky sap in their roots, stems, and leaves. The juice secreted by the thorns of iron begonia contains alkaloids, which may cause redness, swelling, and itching when in contact with the skin.
Location of Toxins
The toxins of some (D-P) species are mainly distributed in the white sap of the plant, while the stamens and petals are basically non-toxic. Data from the Chinese Flower Association show that adults need to ingest more than 50g of toxic stems and leaves to experience vomiting symptoms.
Precautions for Home Care
Prohibitions on Placement
Be cautious when placing in the bedroom: volatile substances released by the plant at night may affect sleep quality. It is recommended to place them in a well-ventilated living room or balcony, keeping a distance of more than 3 meters from the sleeping area.
Protection for Vulnerable Groups
Pregnant women, infants, and those with allergic体质 are advised to choose species like Western Begonia (D-P). Hands should be washed promptly after contact with the plant, and gardening gloves should be worn when pruning.
Scientific Care Guide
Water Management
Use the "dry-wet" method: keep the soil moisture at 60% in spring and summer, and reduce it to 30% in winter. Accumulated water can cause root rot, so you can use ceramic pots with a perlite matrix.
Light Control
They need to be exposed to 4-6 hours of scattered light daily, and strong light should be filtered by a shading net in the summer. The color of the leaves can be used to determine if there is enough light: healthy leaves are a glossy dark green.
In summary, begonias can be safely cultivated by understanding their species characteristics and taking appropriate protective measures. It is recommended to confirm the species attributes when purchasing from a regular nursery, enjoying the fun of gardening while ensuring home safety.