Dangerous Flowers A Threat To Kids - Brief Article

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), May, 2001

Few things are as aesthetically pleasing as a beautiful garden. However, many common flowers are toxic if eaten and could pose a threat to young children.

"Be cautious about which plants you choose to plant in your yard," warns Greene Shepherd, a clinical toxicologist and instructor of emergency medicine at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas. "A child can put something in his or her mouth when your back is turned for only a minute."

Azaleas, caladiums, chrysanthemums, daffodils, hydrangea, hyacinth, iris, jonquils, morning glories, and periwinkles are all potentially harmful flowers. Stick with begonias, crape myrtles, gardenias, geraniums, honeysuckle, impatiens, marigolds, petunias, roses, and zinnia, all of which are considered safe.