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Abstract

A very peculiar case of poisoning, caused by plant exhalation,
having occurred at these gardens, it is desirable that it
should be recorded, not alone for general information, but
more especially as it is possible that the plant in question
may, to a limited extent, be under cultivation in other places.
Before describing the case, a few general observations
relative to the matter may not be out of place. The genus Rhus embraces numerous species, many of which
produce gums and resins used in the manufacture of superior
kinds of varnish and some are esteetned
for the preparation of leather, while not a few of the species
are poisonous to a greater or less degree.
The plant is common in North America, where it is known
as poison ivy. The particular plant in question has been in the garden for many years.
It is very probable that the plant may have a more poisonous
influence at one season than another, and to this I am
inclined to ascribe its effects in the present case, when
six persons became poisoned by it at one time, two at least
to a serious extent. Symptoms varied slightly between those affected.

Item Type:	Article
Authors/Creators:	Abbott, Francis
Keywords:	Royal Society of Tasmania, Van Diemens Land, VDL, Hobart Town, natural sciences, proceedings, records
Journal or Publication Title:	Papers and Proceedings of the Royal Society of Tasmania
ISSN:	0080-4703
Collections:	Royal Society Collection > Papers & Proceedings of the Royal Society of Tasmania
Additional Information:	In 1843 the Horticultural and Botanical Society of Van Diemen's Land was founded and became the Royal Society of Van Diemen's Land for Horticulture, Botany, and the Advancement of Science in 1844. In 1855 its name changed to Royal Society of Tasmania for Horticulture, Botany, and the Advancement of Science. In 1911 the name was shortened to Royal Society of Tasmania.
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