We’ve all been there – you’re munching on some chips or veggies and suddenly you’re like “wait a sec, can I eat this plant too?”
Today, I will be talking about the ZZ Plant and whether or not it’s good eats.
Is the ZZ Plant Edible? Can You Eat It?
Here’s the deal – the ZZ Plant is definitely not a good choice for your next salad. In fact, it’s considered to be a little toxic to both humans and pets. So, if you’ve got a curious cat or dog, make sure to keep the ZZ Plant out of reach.
Why is the ZZ Plant Poisonous?
Calcium oxalate is found in many plants, and it acts as a defense mechanism to deter animals and insects from eating the plant.
The crystals can cause damage to the digestive system, making it difficult for the organism to break down the plant matter and extract its nutrients. This substance is known to cause some pretty unpleasant symptoms if ingested, such as:
- Mouth irritation
- Throat swelling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
So, yeah, it’s safe to say that Calcium Oxalate is not a friend to your digestive system.
Read: Is The ZZ Plant Poisonous?
Final Say!
ZZ Plant may look tempting with its shiny green leaves, but it’s best to admire it from a safe distance. Stick to using it as a stylish addition to your home décor, not as a new ingredient in your next recipe.
So, ZZ Plant is definitely not a tasty treat. In fact, it’s pretty toxic, so it’s best to keep it out of reach if you’ve got curious pets or little ones around. So my humble request to you “don’t eat a ZZ plant!”
Also read: Are ZZ Plants Pet Friendly?