Common names
Common English Ivy

Botanical name
Hedera helix

Poisonous parts
Leaves

Toxins
didehydrofalcarinol, falcarinol, hederasaponins

Notes
The photograph is one of the variegated cultivars of English Ivy. This vine is grown both as an indoor and outdoor ornamental and have caused poisoning in cattle, dogs, sheep, and humans. Symptoms of ingestion are difficulty in breathing, convulsions, vomiting, paralysis and coma. Dermatitis is rare but can be severe with weeping blisters which respond slowly to treatment. The berries are bitter so it's unlikely children will consume them in large quantities.

This plant is also useful as an air purifier.

Toxicity Information
Courtesy of:
Derek B. Munro
Biological Resources Program
Eastern Cereal and Oilseed Research Centre
Research Branch Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0C6