But are holly berries poisonous to pets or children that get a little too curious?
Despite their festive charm, all types of holly contain toxins that are potentially dangerous if eaten.
Tina Wismeris a senior director of toxicology at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.
Credit:Marc Guitard / Getty Images
English holly requires good drainage and even moisture to thrive.
They tolerate regular pruning, so they work well for hedging or topiary.
Berry colors can be gold, orange, and burgundy, but the classic red dominates the holiday scene.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
It likewise produces the best berry show with a male-female set.
This native shrub ranges from five to 15 feet high and will slowly form thickets if allowed.
In the garden, winterberry is hardy in a wider range than its evergreen cousin, from Zones 3-9.
Credit: Cynthia Haynes
It can tolerate both sandy and clay soil.
How Toxic Are Holly Berries?
However, don’t panic if your dog or cat eats some holly berries.
“Severe symptoms after ingestion are not typical present in pets, Wismer adds.
The ASPCA classifies both leaves and berries as low toxicity.
There is more concern about humans ingesting the berries, however.
Keep holly berries out of reach and be alert when kids and pets are nearby.
verify to clean up any fallen berries immediately.
To be extra careful, consider swapping out holly for other festive plants.
),African violets(Streptocarpus sect.
Saintpaulia), andorchids.
Use a small amount of water or milk to clear any berry material from the mouth and esophagus.
If a person has ingested holly, call Poison Control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Holly has been adding winter cheer to hearths for centuries.
The ancient Romans gave holly offerings to Saturn during Saturnalia in late December.
Spiny holly leaves are richly represented in Christian symbology too.
USDA NRCS Northeast Plant Materials Program.Plant Fact Sheet- Common Winterberry.
United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service
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Should home ipecac-induced emesis be routinely recommended in the management of toxic berry ingestions?
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