Page 13 - The world of dangerous PLants

Family: Rhamnaceae

Rhamnus, is a genus of around 140 accepted species of deciduous
R. cathartica R. crocea
shrubs or small, to medium-sized trees, all commonly known as, Buck-
thorn. (Not to be confused with other genera like ‘alder buckthorn’ in
the genus Frangula) Most plants in this genus are toxic and have a low
to medium toxicity level, though some are believed to be non-toxic. All
parts of these plants are toxic especially the berries, bark, and leaves
R. ilicifolia R petiolaris and are toxic to both humans and animals. Symptoms of toxic poison-
ing can be stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy. While
some may inflict a mild form of poisoning, which can go unnoticed,
others can inflict painful and distressing symptoms. Touching these
plants is said to be safe, though people with sensitive skin may experi-
ence a mild rash. Children and pets should be actively discouraged
from eating any part of these plants, and in the case
of children, especially the berries.

Family:Celastraceae
Euonymus is a genus of numerous selected species of flowering decid-
E. angulatus E. carnosus uous and evergreen shrubs, small trees, and climbing vines. All plants in
this genus are toxic and have a low to medium toxicity level. Symptoms of
toxic poisoning, for both humans and animals, can be vomiting, diarrhoea,
weakness, heart disruption convulsions and permanent kidney or liver
damage. Touching some of these plants is considered safe, however, on skin
contact, the sap of some species like the Burning bush or Spindly tree, can
E. acanthocarpus E. indicus cause irritation or allergic reactions. The toxic strength and effect of these
plants vary across species; E. fortunei, for instance, is said to be highly toxic
for dogs while E. europaeus is said to be more toxic than E. japonicu, and E.
alatus, is said to be highest of them all. If you have one of these plant in
your care and are unsure of its toxicity, research it using its scientific name.
Other than that, treat it with caution, and warn children of the possible
danger it poses. Keep your pets away from it and always wear gloves when
handling it

Family:Ranunculaceae
Ranunculus is a genus of numerous species of flowering plants

R. bulbosus R. repens commonly known as buttercups, spearworts, or water crowfoots. All spe-
cies in this genus are toxic and have a low to medium toxicity level.
Symptoms of toxic poisoning, for both humans and animals, can be burn-
ing of the mouth, severe abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and vomiting, la-
boured breathing, partial paralysis, and convulsions. Contact with the
skin could incite skin irritation, dermatitis, burning, itching, and blisters.
Although not all plants of this genus have the same level of toxicity some
R.eschscholtzii R. glaberrimus
of the best known like the common buttercup, creeping buttercup and
bulbous buttercup are all very toxic. Buttercups are not normally garden
plants. They are an invasive weed, growing profusely in meadows and
grassy pastures where they can cause havoc among grazing livestock.
Avoid touching these plants with your bare hands; if you do, never rub
your eyes or touch your face until you have washed
your hands.