Poisonous Plants

The toxins in these plants can be transferred from various parts of the plant through ingestion, contact or inhalation, with symptoms ranging from mild skin irritation and rash to more severe symptoms and death.

To keep our families safe, we should understand which plants are poisonous, identify them in our gardens, and know the symptoms they produce.

10 Common Poisonous Garden Plants

These are some poisonous plants commonly grown in the garden. Their toxicity varies in degree and symptoms will vary.

Azalea – All parts of this beautiful flowering plant can be fatal. Nausea, vomiting, breathing difficulties, coma and depression are common symptoms.

Euphorbia – Otherwise known as poinsettia, the sap of this Christmas favorite can cause inflammation and rash. Rubbing the sap in the eyes is especially dangerous, as it can cause blindness.

Foxglove – All parts of this perennial flowering plant are toxic and can cause irregular pulse and heartbeat which can be fatal. It also causes digestive upset and mental confusion.

Hyacinth – These fragrant harbingers of spring contain toxins that cause diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, and may be fatal.

Jasmine – The berries of this fragrant shrub can cause digestive disorders, affects the nervous system and can be fatal.

Lantana – The delicate and colorful flowers of this summer favorite can cause mild to severe skin irritation. Ingestion of flowers can cause death.

Lily-of-the-Valley – All parts of this perennial are poisonous, causing mental confusion, digestive issues, rapid pulse and irregular heart beat.

Mistletoe – This popular Christmas evergreen plant bears berries containing several toxins that can be deadly if eaten. Be especially careful if hanging indoors for the holidays, as the berries can drop where they are accessible to children and pets.

Oaks – Admired in the landscape for its fall colors, the foliage and acorns of this tree are toxic if ingested in large amounts. Symptoms take several days to appear and affect the kidneys.

Oleander – A perennial tree or shrub, all parts of this toxic plant can be fatal if ingested. It can cause severe digestive issues and affects the heart.

Care should be taken when planting and growing these plants. If you have children or pets, you may want to consider eliminating these and other toxic plants from your landscape.

When you can identify poisonous plants and the symptoms they present, you will be prepared to seek medical attention when needed.

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