Agapanthus spp.
Lily of the Nile, African bluebell, African blue lily, Common Agapanthus
An evergreen, perennial plant growing in leafy clumps to 60cm high, reproducing from rhizomes and seeds. Strap-like leaves about 30mm wide and flower heads in big clusters, mainly blue or white. Flowers have six petals, in a trumpet-like shape, up to 150 flowers on the flower head. Flowering is from October to February. Dead flower-heads last for many months containing seeds.
Garland lily (Calostema purpureum)
Widespread, especially gardens and roadsides; native of South Africa
Yuccagenin, a haemolytic saponin; agapanthogenin, a steroidal saponin
All livestock species are affected by the plant tubers, the leaves do not seem to be poisonous.
Oral ingestion of the sap causes severe ulceration of the mouth and gastritis. Skin contact with the sap may cause a burning sensation, skin irritation, and rashes. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea.
Ingestion of rhizomes may cause death
Skin irritation, rashes, ulceration of oral cavity, reddening of stomach mucosa, tuber presence in stomach
History
Skin rashes tend to resolve on their own; water baths and antihistamines can minimise pain and pruritus;
Good unless tubers have been ingested
Do not allow livestock to eat down to the tubers; apply glyphosates to fields; dig out tubers and root systems
