Page 48 - The world of dangerous PLants

Family:Urticaceae
U.Cannabina U.dioica
Urtica is a genus of numerous species of flowering plants called
Nettles. All plants in this genus are considered non-toxic to humans
and animals. The Nettles leaves however, are lined with small stiff
hairs that detach and penetrate any bare skin that brushes against
them. This will usually result in a painful stinging sensation and cause
the skin to blister. Although annoying, it’s not considered life threat-
U.Chamaedryoides U.ferox ening, though, U.ferox, native to New Zealand is thought to be re-
sponsible for two deaths. Some people however, may experience an
allergic reaction which could result in trouble breathing, difficulty
swallowing, wheezing, dizziness, increased heart rate, tightness in the
chest, and swelling. This can be fatal, and anyone experiencing such
symptoms should seek medical help immediately.

Family:Solanaceae
N.Alata N.Tabacum Nicotiana is a genus of numerous species of herbaceous plants and
shrubs popularly referred to as tobacco plants. All plants in this genus
are toxic and have a high toxicity level. Symptoms of toxic poisoning in
humans can be hyper excitement, depression, vomiting, incoordination,
and paralysis and even death. In animals symptoms could be pupil dila-
tion, excessive drooling, rapid heart rate, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting,
and in severe cases, paralysis and death. Handling the plant, especially
N.Clevelandii N.glutinosa when it’s wet, can cause extreme irritation and Green Tobacco Sickness
(GTS), an illness which can afflict workers who pick the fresh leaves.
Due to its association with so many health problems this is not a plant
normally found in gardens. However, if you should come across one
simply avoid it. Keep children and pets away from it and never touch it
with your bare hands, and if you suspect toxic poisoning get medical
help immediately.

Family:Apocynaceae
Oleander
The genus Nerium has only one currently classified species,
N.oleander, an ornamental flowering shrub or small tree, popularly known
as Oleander. All parts of this plant, especially its leaves, roots, and seeds
are toxic. It has a medium to high toxicity level. Symptoms of toxic poison-
ing in humans and animals are; nausea and vomiting, diarrhoea, ab-
dominal pain, sweating and weakness, tremors, an abnormal heart rate,
breathing difficulties, seizures, and in extreme cases even death. Handling
the plant can cause skin irritation and eye soreness or irritation. The dense
foliage and flowers of this plant make it an ideal, and pretty, separator or
hedge, along roadways, public spaces and property boundaries. Always
treat this plant with caution and wear appropriate clothes and gloves when
pruning or trimming it. Warn children of the danger it may pose and keep
pets from eating or chewing any part of it.