What is the problem with Spanish bluebells?
But this much-loved plant is under threat. The Spanish bluebell is more vigorous than our native bluebell, so can outcompete it for resources like light and space. It can hybridise with our native, too, producing fertile plants that show a whole range of mixed features from both species. Spanish bluebell is classified as a toxic plant to dogs. Dogs can be poisoned by this plant if they ingest any part of it, including flowers, fruits, leaves, roots, seeds, stems, and sap/juice. The ingestion might occur accidentally as dogs explore their environment or play in areas where spanish bluebell grows.Bluebells are poisonous to dogs because they contain a toxin that affects the heart. Bluebell poisoning will normally result in an upset tummy, but if eaten in very large amounts, it can be fatal.All parts of the bluebell plant contain toxic glycosides that are poisonous to humans, dogs, horses and cattle. If any part of the plant is eaten, it can cause serious stomach upset, and if consumed in large quantities, may be fatal. The bulbs are easily mistaken for spring onions or garlic.Can you treat bluebell poisoning at home? If your pet has only eaten a small amount, you can monitor them at home. Most pets that show symptoms will have mild gastrointestinal issues, such as vomiting and diarrhoea. You can support them by feeding them a bland diet in small amounts and offering small sips of water.ARE BLUEBELLS POISONOUS? Yes, every part of the bluebell plant is toxic to humans, dogs and livestock – and their sap can cause skin irritation. Another reason to look (and smell) but not touch!
How to get rid of Spanish bluebells in the garden?
If you have bluebells growing where they aren’t wanted, there are a few methods of control: Dig out whole clumps – use a spade or garden fork to dig up clumps and remove all the bulbs and underground parts, looking closely for small offset bulbs. Bluebells are resistant to many herbicides commonly used in the garden. Applications of herbicide are best made after the plant has flowered, flower heads should be cut to prevent the formation of seed. Repeat applications will be required to deplete the soil seed bank.Divide and replant the clumps after flowering and before the leaves die back. Bear in mind that it’s illegal to dig up clumps of bluebells in the wild, and this method applies to bluebells growing in gardens only. You can also save seed from bluebells and sow them immediately in pots of compost.To get them all out, you may need to dig up the bulbs for several years in a row. If you are in the process of removing them and others continue to grow, cut off the flowerheads before the blooms open to prevent cross-pollination with English bluebells.Pick bluebells from your garden and use indoors for a long-lasting cut flower display. Picking and deadheading some of the flowers from your garden will prevent self-seeding and help control their spread.Also bear in mind that Spanish bluebells are extremely invasive and may outgrow their welcome. Plant dormant bulbs in autumn in partial shade where their invasive tendencies won’t harm nearby plants. Deadhead after flowering to avoid seeding.
Are Spanish bluebells poisonous to touch?
Bluebell sap is believed to cause dermatitis and skin irritation. All varieties of bluebells contain glycosides, and therefore all varieties are poisonous. ARE BLUEBELLS POISONOUS? Yes, every part of the bluebell plant is toxic to humans, dogs and livestock – and their sap can cause skin irritation. Another reason to look (and smell) but not touch!Spanish bluebell is classified as a toxic plant to dogs. Dogs can be poisoned by this plant if they ingest any part of it, including flowers, fruits, leaves, roots, seeds, stems, and sap/juice. The ingestion might occur accidentally as dogs explore their environment or play in areas where spanish bluebell grows.Spanish bluebells are also poisonous for dogs and cats — accidental consumption can lead to symptoms of poisoning and nausea.Pollinators: Bees and other pollinators are attracted to the flowers, making it a good choice for a pollinator garden. Toxicity: All parts of the bluebell plant contain toxic glycosides that are poisonous to humans, dogs, horses, and cattle.
Why can’t you dig up bluebells?
It is illegal to dig up bluebells in your garden, or anywhere. It’s against the law to intentionally pick, uproot or destroy bluebells. Bluebells have soft leaves that are particularly sensitive to being trodden on. Once the leaves are damaged, they are then unable to absorb the sun and die. All parts of the bluebell plant contain toxic glycosides that are poisonous to humans, dogs, horses and cattle. If any part of the plant is eaten, it can cause serious stomach upset, and if consumed in large quantities, may be fatal. The bulbs are easily mistaken for spring onions or garlic.Unfortunately, as pretty as they are, bluebells pose a big risk for our pets due to a toxic chemical present in the plant called glycoside. This means every part of the flower can lead to health problems when consumed by dogs. If you suspect your dog is suffering from bluebell poisoning, contact the vet immediately.They contain toxic glycosides, poisonous to both animals and humans. As all parts of the bluebell contain this toxin, they can cause skin irritation for some people, just through any form of direct contact with the plant.
Are bluebells poisonous to dogs to humans?
Unfortunately, as pretty as they are, bluebells pose a big risk for our pets due to a toxic chemical present in the plant called glycoside. This means every part of the flower can lead to health problems when consumed by dogs. If you suspect your dog is suffering from bluebell poisoning, contact the vet immediately. Bluebells are poisonous to dogs because they contain a toxin that affects the heart. Bluebell poisoning will normally result in an upset tummy, but if eaten in very large amounts, it can be fatal.