University of Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein urges people to keep safety in mind when decorating with holiday greenery this season.
He reminds people that some traditional plants contain toxic compounds that might pose a health risk, especially to children. For example, the red berries of holly are considered mildly poisonous and can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea if ingested. Children and pets often are attracted to these bright berries, so he urges you to keep holly well out of the reach of youngsters and make sure any berries that might fall from the decoration won’t land on the floor where they can be retrieved by a child or pet.
Branches of the common evergreen yew shrub are often are cut for holiday use. The leaves, bark and seeds of this plant are also considered toxic. Yew produces a small red fruit that might be attractive to children. The pulp of the fruit is harmless, but the seeds can be quite toxic.
While mistletoe is steeped with folklore and tradition, it should be used with extreme care, Trinklein says. Both American and European types are highly toxic. It is probably best to use artificial mistletoe for holiday decorations. If using fresh mistletoe, wrap it with plastic so the leaves and berries cannot fall to the floor.
Keep safety in mind when decorating this holiday season.