You are here:

Bulbs/Nectar from lillies

Advertisement


Question
Hi there, i was told that the nectar from lillies can kill pets, esp cats and dogs.????  i ask this because when flower has blossomed i like to taste the nectar,,is this safe ?/  thanks Kev...

Answer
Lily-of-the-Valley -- Convallaria majalis -- damage the cardiovascular system when eaten with two Glycosides, Convallarin and Convallamarin.

The Lily-of-the-Fields -- Anemone -- and the Gloriosa Lily are also poisonous.

But the regular, normal Lily that we see is not poisonous.  No matter how fragrant.

If of course the plant has been treated with pesticides or herbicides there may be residue in the flower.  Party or not.

Please tell me the source of your information.  rsvp and Thanks for writing!


entire plant; cardiovascular system affected by the glycosides convallarin and convallamarin.  

Bulbs

All Answers


Ask Experts

Volunteer


Long Island Gardener

Expertise

Growing Tulips? Dahlias? Daffodils? Gladiolus? It doesn't get easier than bulbs and tubers. Once in a while, something goes wrong: The dreaded Narcissus Bulb Fly, which resembles a honeybee. Mosaic virus, which can ignite a field of tulips in a single season. Nematodes, lurking underground. Here on the North Shore of Long Island, the garden is full of surprises. If you live in the Northeast/Atlantic Coast, I can help you pick the right bulb for every season, indoors and out, and help you fertilize, bloom and harvest for home or work. How: I have degrees in related fields, but my best understanding is all learned from trial and error. For most of my 53 years I have been gardening somewhere. No matter what the problem, I've learned the best answers are always Organic -- Earth friendly, less expensive, healthier for people and pets, easier and cleaner than toxic liquids and powders that big chemical companies sell so smoothly.

Experience

Besides degrees in related fields, and a few favorite horticultural societies, I work as a docent at our local botanical gardens -- but it's the years of work in the garden that's the real test.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.