Valentine's Day flower warning for parents and pet owners over 'toxic' blooms
13.02.2024 - 19:15
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
Valentine's Day is less than 24 hours away and many romantics will be heading to the florist on Wednesday to pick up a bouquet for their special someone.
While flowers are a universal token for love, especially on February 14, experts are urging Brits to choose wisely, as some stems can be harmful to children and pets.
According to garden expert Andrei Newman of Designer Home Spas, some can common flowers can cause breathing problems, vomiting and in serious cases - death - both for pets and children. From tulips to carnations and even lilies, these beautiful blooms could cause a health hazard.
Read below for the full list of toxic flowers to avoid this Valentine's Day if you are a parent or pet owner, as reported by Gloucestershire Live.
The hydrangea is a beautiful plant that represents love and it's a florist's favourite as it comes in a wide variety of colours. They also take up a lot of space, so you tend to get a lot of flowers for your budget.
"All parts of the hydrangea flowers are toxic to pets and your little ones," Andrei warns. "The hydrangea contains cyanide which is a rapidly acting chemical which interferes with the body's ability to use oxygen.
"Accidently ingesting any part of the hydrangea plant could cause shortness of breath, rapid pulse, convulsions and death."
Tulips are often associated with spring and Easter, but red tulips are also a symbol of love. If you have children or pets however they shouldn't be in your home, according to Andrei.
He explained: "Everyone likes tulips, but they are extremely dangerous to pets and children. Ingesting any part of a tulip can cause stomach cramps, vomiting, or even respiratory failure.
"Even if you don't ingest tulips, skin contact can cause anything from mild