Daphne spp.
mezereon, spurge laurel
Small shrubs with flexible branches. Leaves shiny clustered at branch ends. Flowers very fragrant usually pink and white in colour and in clusters. Flowers in winter or early spring, usually before leaves appear. Fruit is a red or black drupe but is not usually produced by hybrids.
Although there are several different species, most plants in NZ are hybrids. The native Pimelia are closely related.
Widespread and common in gardens throughout NZ.
Main toxin is daphnetoxin. Contains mezereinic acid anhydride resin which causes corrosive lesions of the mouth. Also contains a glycoside which gives inflammation of the upper gastrointestinal tract. All parts of plant poisonous. Dried plants are toxic. Three berries have been enough to cause death in piglets.
The plant is not usually attractive to stock as it is unpalatable. Flowers and fruits may be attractive to children.
Burning of mouth and stomach, stomatitis, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhoea and vomitus, dyspnoea and death.
Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys, white patches in stomach have a 'burned appearance'.
Evidence of ingestion and clinical signs.
Clinical signs are similar to Strathmore weed poisoning.
Gastric lavage, emesis, activated charcoal and symptomatic treatment.
Connor, HE, The Poisonous plants in New Zealand, 2nd ed.,1977, Government Publications Ltd., Wellington
