The Herbarium at the University of Georgia Poisonous Plants of Georgia
The Herbarium of the University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
Common Name:
Scientific Name:
Fetterbush Leucothoe spp D. Don
Family:
 Ericaceae
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This plant may be poisonous to both humans and animals. Please refer to the "Symptoms" section below for information regarding susceptiblity of animal species to poisoning.
Description:
 Fetterbush is a shrub up to 13 ft in height. The leaves are deciduous or evergreen, alternate, with even edges. The flowers form elongated clusters. Each flower has 5 lobes and appears white to pink. While this plant is a common horticultural species, in nature it is usually found in swampy areas or near streams.
Toxic Part: All parts of are potentially toxic.
Toxin: Grayanotoxins, which are diterpenoids
Symptoms: Poisoning in humans rarely occurs from ingestion of plant material although children may be tempted to chew on the leaves. Toxicity may be a result of toxic honey consumption (honey made from the nectar of flowers in this genus). Since this genus contains the same group of toxins as Rhododendron spp. it is believed that symptoms would be similar including vomiting, convulsions, slowed pulse, low blood pressure, a decrease in respiratory functioning, lack of coordination, and paralysis.
Treatment: If vomiting has not occurred then prompt gastric lavage is indicated. Administration of fluids and administration of anticholinergic drugs to maintain blood pressure and heart rate may be necessary in addition to monitoring of the respiratory and central nervous system functioning.
References: 24, 59, 105, 183, 189
This site is NOT a substitute for the advice of medical physician. Plant poisonings can, in certain cases, result in SERIOUS HARM AND EVEN DEATH. Please contact a physician or your local poison control center if you suspect any plant poisoning. A link to the Georgia Poison Control Center can be found on the "References and Links" page of this site.