Page 51 - The world of dangerous PLants

Family:Araceae

S.Cochlearispathum S.Ortgiesii Spathiphyllum is a genus of numerous species of evergreen her-
baceous perennial flowering plants many of which are known as Peace
lilies*. All plants in this genus are toxic and have a low to medium tox-
icity level. Symptoms of toxic poisoning for humans, could be, a tin-
gling or burning sensation, swelling of the lips, mouth, and tongue,
while in animals, drooling, vomiting, oral pain and lack of appetite.
Skin contact could cause mild skin irritation. However, people with
S.Floribundum S.wallisii sensitive skin, could contract contact dermatitis. Peace lilies are popu-
lar household plants and if you have one in your home it should be
kept at a high elevation where children cannot reach it, or in a restrict-
ed area, where children and pets cannot access it. As with any toxic
plant, you should always wear gloves when handling it.
*Peace lilies are not True lilies, like those in the genus Lilium

Family:Fabaceae

Arachis is a genus of about 70 species and varieties of annual and
Peanut Plant
perennial flowering plants. In general the peanut plants of this genus, es-
pecially, A.hypogaea and A.pintoi, are non-toxic* for humans and animals
and safe to eat and touch. However, if you intend to store peanuts for fu-
ture use, you must store them in a cool, dry place. Incorrect storage will
encourage a mould to grow on the stored material, changing its structure
from non-toxic to highly toxic. Never eat peanuts if they show signs of
mould or damage.

*People with a natural peanut allergy should avoid all plants of
this genus, as contact with them could be fatal.

Family:Lamiaceae

Mentha, or mint, is a genus of numerous species of aromatic, flow-
M.Aquatica M.Cervina
ering perennial herbs. Many of the plants of this genus like, Pepper-
mint, (M× piperita), are non-toxic and safe to eat and touch, but some
like, Spearmint, (M.spicata) and Pennyroyal, (M.pulegium), are toxic. Al-
so, toxicity levels vary drastically throughout the plants of this genus, with,
M.spicata, having a low level, with symptoms like, vomiting and diar-
rhoea, but only if large amounts are eaten. M.pulegium, on the other hand,
M.Japonica M.Pulegium has a high level, with symptoms that can cause liver damage, even death. If
you think you have a plant of this genus in your care then you should re-
search its toxicity using its scientific name. Other than that, treat it with
caution, wear gloves when handling it, and never eat it. Warn children of
the possible danger it might pose and supervise pets, making sure they
never eat or chew any part of it.