SafePlants

Fly Poison (Amianthium muscaetoxicum)

Fly Poison, scientifically known as Amianthium muscaetoxicum, gets its common name from its historical use as an insecticide. This perennial plant has a fascinating history and unique characteristics.

Considerations for Pets

• All parts of the Fly Poison plant are considered highly toxic.
• Historically, the bulb has been pounded and used as a fly poison.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Amianthium muscaetoxicum
• Common Names: Fly Poison, Stagger grass, Crow poison
• Family: Melanthiaceae (Bunchflower Family)
• Synonyms: Amianthum muscaetoxicum, Amianthium muscitoxicum

Distribution and Habitat

• Fly Poison is native to the southeastern United States.
• It is typically found on wooded slopes.

Morphological Characteristics

• Fly Poison is a seasonal bulb that can grow between 1.5-4 feet tall.
• It is an upright, smooth perennial plant.
• It features wide, grass-like basal leaves.
• The flowers are initially white, later becoming green or red.
• The white flowers have six petals and grow in a terminal raceme.

Quirky Facts

• The name "muscitoxicum" is derived from Latin, translating literally to "poison for flies."
• The plant has been associated with causing "staggers" in animals, contributing to its common name, Stagger Grass.

Traditional Uses

• Historically, the pounded bulb of Fly Poison was mixed with sweet substances like honey or molasses to create fly traps.