Gardens, outdoor landscaping and houseplants can add lush colors and beauty to any setting, however many people may not realize they have included poisonous plants. Some plants are toxic and may not just make a child or pet sick, some may be fatal. It is essential to know and understand what kind of plant you have before bringing it to a home where children or pets have access to them.
Five Common Outdoor Poisonous Plants
Oleander
Oleanders are an evergreen shrub that produces beautiful flowers, but it is one of the most poisonous plants around. All parts of the plant are poisonous and even small amounts can prove fatal.
Carolina Jessamine
Carolina jessamine, or more commonly known as yellow jessamine, may be the state flower of South Carolina, but there are reports of children dying after ingesting parts of this flowering vine.
Digitalis purpurea
Digitalis, foxglove, can also have deadly consequences if ingested. This herbaceous perennial or biennial is highly toxic and it can also prove fatal if ingested.
Daphne
Daphne is a very popular outdoor plant found in many yards and flower gardens. The flowers are beautiful and produce a sweet, strong fragrance but they also produce deadly berries. It is better to avoid this evergreens shrub as the berries are appealing to both kids and pets.
Iris
All species of Iris are highly toxic if eaten, although they very seldom cause death, there have been some reports of fatalities.
Many people are familiar with the toxicity of poison ivy, mistletoe, poinsettias, deadly nightshade, but are surprised to find out the beautiful plants iris, hydrangea and azaleas are also poisonous as well.
Five Common Indoor Poisonous Plants
Dicentra
Dicentra, or the bleeding heart plant, is a popular indoor hanging plant. It can be fatal or extremely injurious if ingested.
Peace Lily
This common plant produces tall white flowers and large green leaves. All parts of the plant are toxic due to the poison found in its sap.
Ficus
The Ficus tree is another common household plant that very few people realize is poisonous. It is often found in businesses and office setting, so care should be taken to watch children when around a Ficus tree.
Dieffenbachia
Green, yellow and white spotted leaves grace this plant. It is more enjoyed for its foliage than for its flowers and all parts of this plant are poisonous if ingested. It can also cause skin irritation upon contact.
English Ivy
This innocent looking plant is a common evergreen vine, but can be extremely dangerous if ingested. Reactions can vary, so any cases of ingestion should be immediately treated under the care of a physician.
If any of these or other poisonous plants have been ingested, then it is best to seek emergency medical treatment right away. If you know which plant has been eaten and do not know the name of it, bring a portion with you in order for it to be identified faster. Time is of the essence, it is better to be safe and seek medical attention immediately if you suspect a case of poisoning.
