The Herbarium at the University of Georgia Poisonous Plants of Georgia
The Herbarium of the University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
Common Name:
Scientific Name:
Rosebay, Great Laurel Rhododendron spp. L.
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:
 These are small shrubs or trees. The developing flowers are usually larger than the developing leaves. The leaves are alternate. The flowers form a round-topped cluster. Each flower consists of lobed petals fused to a tube. The largest lobe is usually spotted or colored differently. The leaves narrow gradually to the tip. Rhododendron spp. are popular ornamental shrubs.
Toxic Part: The entire plant is considered toxic especially the nectar. Toxicity may vary from population of plant to population and within the genus.
Toxin: Ericaceous diterpenoids also known as grayanotoxins or diterpenoid grayanotoxins are the toxic compounds. They act on sodium channels in animal cells by slowing the closing and opening of these channels and by decreasing the channel's ion selectivity. This affects cells that are excitable manifesting in cardiac, neurological, and muscular symptoms.
Symptoms: Poisoning in humans rarely occurs from ingestion of plant material although children may be tempted to chew on the leaves. Rather, more commonly intoxications occur via honey made from the nectar of this plant. Symptoms of toxic honey ingestion include 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, 130, 183
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.