Page 16 - The world of dangerous PLants

Family: Euphorbiaceae

R.communis
Ricinus, is a genus containing one species of fast-growing peren-
nial flowering shrub popularly known as the castor oil or castor bean
plant. It has a toxic level of medium to high with its seeds being severely
toxic. Symptoms of toxic poisoning, for both humans and animals, can
be a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, vomiting, abdominal
pain and extreme diarrhoea, bleeding from the eyes, cardiac distress, or-
gan failure and possible death. Skin contact with the sap, flowers, leaves,
or seeds, can cause extreme rashes and blistering. This plant is potential-
ly dangerous and should be grown in an area where children and pets
cannot access it. Never put any part of it near your mouth, especially the
seeds, and always wear gloves when handling it.

Family:Apiaceae
Apium is a genus of 12 species of flowering plants, that in-
A.prostratum A.annuum cludes the Old World, wild species of Celery: A.graveolens, the an-
cestor of the common edible varieties of celery, var. dulce,
var. rapaceum or celeriac, and var. secalinum. All plants in this ge-
nus are toxic to humans and animals, if eaten in excess, and have a
low toxicity level, however, when eaten in moderation most are non
-toxic. Symptoms of toxic poisoning can be a mild form of digestive
issues like bloating or gas. Skin contact is generally safe, but the
A.insulare A.australe
sap does react to hot sunlight and will irritate the skin if it gets too
hot. One problem with Apium is miss identification, for instance,

Water Hemlock, which is deadly if eaten, can easily be mistaken for
Sea Celery,which is edible. So, when harvesting any of the plants in
this genus make sure you’re harvesting the right one.

Family:Asparagaceae

Agave is a genus of numerous species of dry climate and
A.lechuguilla A.attenuata
drought resistant plants, with many that flower and seed once then
die. All plants in this genus are toxic and have a low to medium toxici-
ty level. However, this is a very diverse species, with each plant having
its own version of toxins. For instance, A.Salmiana is not toxic for hu-
mans, but is for animals while, A.lechuguilla is highly toxic for ani-
mals, but mild for humans. The toxicity and symptoms can vary drasti-
A.palmeri A.sisalana cally across species. However, common symptoms of toxic poisoning
can be severe vomiting and diarrhoea. Across all species contact with
the skin can cause redness, blisters, and burns. Also, contact with the
eyes can cause irritation and stinging. If you have an Agave in your
care you should research its toxicity by using its scientific name. Other
than that, treat it with caution and always wear gloves
when handling it.