Flower Safety Information

Last Updated: 14/3/25

1. Introduction

1.1 Purpose
This Flower Safety Information page describes potential safety concerns associated with certain flowers in our collection, particularly chrysanthemums and stargazer lilies. At Kate Hill Flowers, we prioritise the safety and well-being of our customers, their families, and their pets while providing beautiful floral arrangements.

1.2 Safety Commitment
We are committed to providing transparent information about our products to ensure you can make informed decisions about the flowers you bring into your home or give as gifts.

2. Chrysanthemums: Safety Information

2.1 Potential Safety Concerns
Chrysanthemums may present certain safety concerns that customers should be aware of:

  • Allergic Reactions: Chrysanthemums belong to the Asteraceae family, which includes ragweed and daisies. People with sensitivities to these plants may experience allergic reactions when handling chrysanthemums.
  • Pet Safety: Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrins, which can be toxic to dogs, cats, and other pets if ingested. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive salivation, incoordination, and dermatitis (from physical contact).
  • Child Safety: While generally not severely toxic to humans, chrysanthemums can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals and may cause gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested.

2.2 Safety Recommendations
To safely enjoy chrysanthemums in your home, we recommend:

  • Keep chrysanthemums out of reach of pets, especially cats
  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling these flowers
  • Consider alternative flowers if you have young children who may put flowers in their mouths

3. Stargazer Lilies: Safety Information

3.1 Potential Safety Concerns
Stargazer lilies may present several notable safety concerns:

  • Extreme Toxicity to Cats: All parts of stargazer lilies (and all true lilies) are extremely toxic to cats. Even minor exposure to the pollen or ingestion of a small amount of any part of the plant can cause severe kidney damage or failure in cats.
  • Pollen Staining: The orange-brown pollen can cause permanent staining on clothing and furniture.
  • Fragrance Sensitivities: Stargazer lilies have a strong fragrance that can trigger headaches or respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.
  • Potential Skin Irritation: The sap from lily stems can cause skin irritation in some people.

3.2 Safety Recommendations
To safely enjoy stargazer lilies, we recommend:

  • NEVER keep stargazer lilies in homes with cats
  • Keep these flowers out of reach of children and other pets
  • Remove the anthers (the pollen-producing parts) to reduce allergy risks and prevent staining
  • Consider placing lilies in well-ventilated areas if you're sensitive to strong fragrances
  • Wash hands after handling lily stems

4. General Flower Safety Tips

4.1 For People with Allergies
Recommendations for individuals with allergies:

  • Consider testing your reaction to a single flower before purchasing a large arrangement
  • Opt for low-pollen flowers like roses, carnations, or orchids if you have respiratory allergies
  • Keep flowers out of bedrooms if you experience allergic symptoms
  • Ensure good ventilation in rooms with floral arrangements

4.2 For Pet Owners
Recommendations for households with pets:

  • Research any flower before bringing it into a home with pets
  • Consider pet-friendly alternatives like roses, sunflowers, gerbera daisies, and snapdragons
  • Be aware that cats are particularly sensitive to many plants and flowers
  • Place arrangements in areas inaccessible to pets

4.3 For Homes with Children
Recommendations for households with young children:

  • Keep all flowers and plants out of reach of small children
  • Teach children not to put flowers or plants in their mouths
  • Be especially careful with flowers that have berries or appealing seed pods that might attract children's attention

5. In Case of Exposure or Ingestion

5.1 For Pets
If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic flower or plant:

  1. Contact your veterinarian immediately
  2. Call the Animal Poisons Helpline: 1300 869 738 (service available in Australia)
  3. Monitor for symptoms and be prepared to provide information about what was ingested

5.2 For Humans
If someone experiences a severe allergic reaction or ingests a potentially harmful flower:

  1. Call the Poisons Information Centre (Australia): 13 11 26
  2. In Victoria, you can also contact the Victorian Poisons Information Centre at the same number: 13 11 26
  3. Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe
  4. For skin irritation, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water

6. Alternative Flower Suggestions

6.1 Instead of Chrysanthemums
If you're concerned about safety regarding chrysanthemums, consider these lovely alternatives:

  • Gerbera Daisies
  • Roses
  • Carnations
  • Sunflowers

6.2 Instead of Stargazer Lilies
If you're looking for alternatives to stargazer lilies, especially for homes with cats, consider these beautiful options:

  • Roses
  • Tulips
  • Orchids
  • Peonies
  • Hydrangeas

7. Questions and Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns about flower safety or would like personalized recommendations, please contact us at:

Kate Hill Flowers 440 City Road Southbank, Victoria, Australia Email: info@katehillflowers.com.au Phone: +61 (3) 9510 8800

By using our products, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Safety Information. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with healthcare professionals for specific medical concerns.