Hydrangea macrophylla
Bigleaf Hydrangea, French Hydrangea, Lacecap Hydrangea, Mophead Hydrangea, Penny Mac, Hortensia
A deciduous shrub which has serrated leaves that grow on opposite sides of the stem. Its characteristic flowers range in colour from white, pink and blue, and are arranged in a cluster to form an umbrella-shaped head.
similar
Throughout NZ, especially in gardens
All parts of the plant contain hydrangin (a cyanogenic glycoside) and saponin
Livestock, humans
Nausea, vomiting, stomach pains, depression, diarrhoea, tachycardia, hyperthermia, sweating
Asphyxia, respiratory failure, death
Blood is initially a bright cherry-red colour, which turns dark red is necropsy is delayed and may clot slowly or not at all. There can be an odour of bitter almonds when the stomach is opened. Organs may show signs of congestion or haemorrhage with some froth in the respiratory system.
History
Ingestion of any cyanogenic substance
Immediate treatment is essential. This includes sodium nitrite 20mg/kg iv followed by sodium thiosulphate 500mg/kg. This can be repeated two-hourly or as needed. Oxygen supplementation is helpful.
Good if only a small amount has been eaten
Removal of plants from environment
Tuesday, 22 February 2011
