Poisonous Plants of Georgia
	The Herbarium of the University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia

	Common Name: Scientific Name: Rosary pea, Jequirity bean Abrus precatorius L.
				Family: Fabaceae
			Click on the photos to enlarge images and read a scientific description. 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: Rosary pea is a twining woody vine with slender stems. The flowers resemble pea flowers and form dense clusters of pale reddish purple to lavender pink flowers. The fruit is a flat broad pod covered with tiny hairs. The pod may contain 4-8 seeds that are pea-sized, ovoid, and bright red with a black spot at one end. The seeds are sometimes used to make necklaces. Toxic Part: The entire plant is toxic. However intoxication usually occurs when the seed coat is broken (for example when the seed is chewed or broken). The seeds retain their toxicity for many years. Toxin: The toxin is abrin, a glycoprotein lectin. Symptoms: In humans, symptoms can develop several hours to several days following ingestion. These include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps. There may be loss of intestinal function. Treatment: Vomiting should be induced immediately. The symptoms are treated by replacing fluids and electrolytes. References: 51, 60, 66, 93,104,129 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.