[Illustration: Daphne, spurge olive
_Daphne mezereum--THYMELAEACEAE_]
=Description=: A low, woody plant found in many gardens. The daphne
bears small rose-purple blossoms in clusters along its branches in
early spring before the leaves develop. During the summer, several
bright red berries appear, each with a single seed. Some horticultural
varieties produce white to yellow flowers and yellow to orange berries.
=Poisonous Parts=: The bark, (this separates easily from the stems)
leaves, and berries are poisonous. Children are especially attracted
to the berries and fatalities among some who have eaten them have been
reported.
Poisoning is characterized by a burning sensation in the mouth and
irritation of the stomach and intestines which causes severe cramps.
Toxic principles include a bitter glycoside, =daphnin=, and an acid
resinous mixture. If not removed reasonably soon, these can produce
kidney inflammation since these principles can be absorbed.
=Antidote=: Call your doctor. Have patient vomit. Physicians
perform gastric lavage and treat for a probable irritation of the
gastro-intestinal tract if parts of the plant have been in the stomach
for more than an hour.