Asparagus fern labelled as toxic!

[Oztrix]

Hello everybody,
I was reading the tortoise trust update on toxicity of common houseplants, and it stated:
'Asparagus Fern—(Asparagus setaceus plumosus) toxic-dermatitis'
Toxic—if plants are listed as toxic, they may contain a wide variety of toxins. Damage may be to stomach, heart, kidneys, or other organs.
Dermatitis—may give a rash or inflammation after contact with skin or mucous membranes.

Can anyone clarify what this means?

Thanks in advance
xxx

[Ajay]

Hey Oztrix
Which bit? lol it's toxic because if it's eaten it can cause damage to the organs listed. Dermatitis means skin irritation. Just touching the plant can cause a rash or swelling/heat after contact with skin or the inside of the mouth/nose or cloaca.
Hope this helps

[sandy]

Not something I would use/have around torts anyway<g>.

[nina]

There must be two plants called asparagus fern, because I remembered that Linda said she used them successfully in her enclosures. Here's a link to one of the threads:
http://forums.shelledwarriors.co.uk/...asparagus+fern
But Linda said her fern was asparagus densiflorus. Maybe Linda could come in on this one and clarify.

Nina

[Oztrix]

Originally Posted by nina

There must be two plants called asparagus fern, because I remembered that Linda said she used them successfully in her enclosures.
Nina

I think there are more than one type of asparagus fern, as there is another mentioned further down the list on the tortoise trust web site:
Sprengeri Fern—(Asparagus densiflorous ‘Sprengeri’) possible dermatitis. The way its written looks as though the effects are for humans, rather than tortoises!

http://www.tortoisetrust.org/articles/houseplants.htm

I have seen quite a few tortoise keepers use them on their tables for shade purposes, not for eating, but assumed that they weren't toxic if they were eaten, they seem to thrive with the intense light conditions, add shade and are also aesthetically pleasing.
The sprengeri fern seems not to be toxic, but may cause skin reactions!

Thanks
xxxx