Plumbago species: Plumbago
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MAR 25, 2010
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Family
Plumbaginaceae
Common Names
Leadwort, plumbago.
Plant Description
A genus of about 15 species that are native to many warm-temperate and tropical areas of the world. These evergreen, annual, or perennial shrubs have alternate, simple, leaves. Inflorescences are produced terminally, in racemes. Flowers are showy, radially symmetrical, 5-petalled, and trumpet-shaped (Phlox-like). The fruits are capsules. The commonest species in cultivation is P. auriculata (Fig. 318 and Fig. 319).
Figure 318. Plumbago auriculata.
Figure 319. Plumbago auriculata flowers.
Toxic Principle and Mechanism of Action
All parts of the plant contain the irritant naphthaquinone plumbaginin which has a variety of effects on the reproductive system including abortion, irregular estrus cycles, and testicular degeneration [1,2]. Some species of Plumbago cause gastroenteritis and diarrhea, and the Brazilian species P scandens cause deaths in cattle and goats [3,4].
Risk Assessment
Plumago is unlikely to be a problem to pets, but it is a common garden shrub in warm-temperate and tropical areas.
Clinical Signs
Salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea are likely to be the primary clinical signs encountered.
References
1. Thompson RH. Naturally occurring quinines, 2nd ed. Academic Press, London 1971.
2. Bhargava SK. Effects of plumbagin on the reproductive function of the male dog. Indian J Exp Biol 1984, 22: 153-156.
3. Tokarnia CH, Dobereiner J. Experimental poisoning of cattle with Plumbago scandens (Plumbaginaceae). Pesq Vet Bras 1982, 2: 105-112.
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How to reference this publication (Harvard system)?
(2008) “Plumbago species: Plumbago”, Guide to Poisonous House and Garden Plants. Available at: https://www.ivis.org/library/guide-to-poisonous-house-and-garden-plants/plumbago-species-plumbago (Accessed: 19 September 2024).
Affiliation of the authors at the time of publication
Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA.
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ISBN-10
1591610281
ISBN-13
978-1591610281
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