Plants & Mushrooms
Poisonous plants can cause skin irritation, rashes, blistering, and swelling among other symptoms. Unknown plants and berries should never be touched, tasted or handled. Did you know that all plants can potentially block the airway of a child- even the non-poisonous ones? Supervision is important in preventing accidental exposure by children. Review the list of plants in the categories below. Many of these plants are not native to the Pacific Northwest. They may be transplants thriving in the pacific northwest climate.
Safety Tips:
- Familiarize yourself with plants growing in and around your home and any areas your children frequently play.
- Supervise children while playing outdoors, hiking, camping and in any new environment.
- Teach children from a young age not to touch or taste plants unless given by a trusted adult. Some edible plants and berries have toxic look-a-likes.
- If you suspect a poisoning, don't take a chance. Call the poison center at 1-800-222-1222.
Poison Ivy & Poison Oak
Poison Ivy and Poison Oak can be found in Oregon forests, fields, wetlands, and along streams, road sides and even in urban environments such as parks and backyards. The old saying “Leaves of three, Let it be!” is a helpful reminder for identifying poison ivy and oak but even these plants may have more than three leaves and their form may vary depending on species, environment and season. Learn more about Poison Ivy and Poison Oak.
Mushroom Poisoning & Mushroom Safety
Mushroom poisoning is serious and can make you very sick. Cooking does not necessarily make a mushroom safe to eat. Lookalike mushrooms can fool you. Many poisonous mushrooms have a lookalike. Identifying a mushroom in one part of the country or another country is not reliable for identifying mushrooms in another area. Mushrooms vary by region. If you have recently relocated to the Pacific Northwest from another region of the United States or another country, it is important to learn mushroom identification in your new location.
Mushroom Safety Tips:
- Never pick and eat wild mushrooms unless they’ve been identified by an experienced mycologist (mushroom expert).
- Keep a close eye on kids and pets when exploring the outdoors. Wild mushrooms may look appealing to children due to their bright color and appearance.
- If you are interested in learning more about wild mushroom identification and habitat in Oregon, visit the Oregon Mycological Society website for information on classes and membership.
Call the poison center in case of exposure 1-800-222-1222.