MPI issues warning over very poisonous 'pretty flower'

People are being told to be on alert for a highly toxic plant which is also very pretty. 

Cape Tulip is due to begin flowering next month and spreads easily, a Ministry for Primary Industries spokesperson has warned.  

The non-native plant is harmful to both people and animals.  

"Every part of this plant, whether fresh or dried, contains poisonous compounds," the spokesperson said.  

It is still unclear whether the flower is active in New Zealand. It has been identified in more than 500 sites since being first found in the 1980s.  

Eradication efforts have been successful, with only 29 known sites remaining, 10 of which are in the Marlborough Sounds.  

Recently, three plants were found in a Canterbury garden.

"It has been known to escape from gardens to neighbouring pasture, and establishment of Cape Tulip in agricultural areas could result in significant economic consequences."

Symptoms of Cape Tulip poisoning include gastroenteritis, thirst, paralysis, blindness, and heart and kidney failure. 

Anyone who finds Cape Tulip is being warned not to touch it or dig it up. Call Biosecurity New Zealand's Exotic Pest and Disease hotline 0800 80 99 66.