12/06/2026
Take care of children around Calla Lilies 🌾
THE BASICS
Callas belong to the genus of plants known as Zantedeschia. They have a distinctive broad-shaped petal (SPATHE) that looks like the end of a trumpet, hence the common name TRUMPET LILY. The spathe wraps around a finger-like structure called a SPADIX. Calla Lilies come in many different colours.
THE NEED TO KNOW
All parts of the plant contain CALCIUM OXYLATE crystals. These are microscopic needle-like structures that are released when the plant is ingested or comes in contact with the skin/eye. After ingestion the crystals may cause painful burning of the lips, tongue, gums and throat, swelling, drooling, nausea, vomiting and hoarseness of the voice. Skin contact can cause dermatitis. Crystals can become embedded in the skin and cause injury similar to the irritation caused by fibre glass. Eye exposure may cause immediate pain and tearing and corneal damage.
THE ADVICE
✅ Do not attempt to induce vomiting.
✅ Cold milk, yogurt, ice cream can help relieve symptoms following ingestion of small amounts.
✅ Do not give anything to drink/eat if there is difficulty in swallowing or breathing.
✅ Following skin/eye contact, immediately rinse the skin/open eye gently with continuous running lukewarm water for 10-15 mins.
✅ If symptoms persist, contact your GP or attend Hospital for medical assessment.
National Poison Information Centre, 01-8092166
