Frequently (and not so frequently) Asked Questions
BRIEF: Do you have any information on Laurentia longiflora?
QUESTION:
I would appreciate any information on Laurentia longiflora (Star of Bethlyhem), as
to it's toxins, and effects on animals, especially pond fish, if such information
is available. This plant is growing on the berms of my pond and I am wondering
if it could be the cause of some of my fish dying.
ANSWER:
It has a cardiac glycoside similar to foxglove or oleander or lily of the valley.
It can cause nausea and GI symptoms at doses lower than those needed to stop the
heart. I don't know if enough gets into your pond to affect the fish, othough.
What kind of fish?