Page 57 - The world of dangerous PLants

Family:Berberidaceae

Nandina is a genus containing only 1 evergreen shrub, the Sacred
Bamboo (Nandina domestica ). Although this is a 2 meter tall shrub, with
numerous bamboo-like stems growing from ground level, this plant is not
a bamboo. All parts of this plant are highly toxic. However, to date, there
is no outright medical evidence that it’s poisonous to humans, though
that may change in the future as more toxic poisoning reports emerge. On
the other hand, it’s highly toxic to all animals and its berries are toxic to
some bird species. Symptoms of toxic poisoning in animals could be
weakness, seizures, coma, respiratory failure, vomiting, and collapse and
even death. To avoid any mishaps, always keep animals away from this
plant and never allow them to eat or chew any part of it. To protect birds,
you could remove the berries as they appear. If you suspect toxic poison-
ing get veterinary help immediately

Family:Asparagaceae

S.Bifolia S.Luciliae Scilla, is a genus of around 80 species of perennial herba-
ceous bulb based ornamental plants, often called Squill. All plants
of this genus are toxic, including leaves, blooms, bulbs, and seeds.
They have a medium to high toxicity level. If ingested by either
humans or animals, symptoms of toxic poisoning can be nausea,
abdominal pain, vomiting, cramping, diarrhoea, heart problems
S.Morrisii S.Sardensis and even death. Contact with the skin can cause minor irritation
which lasts only a couple of hours. As with any toxic plant always
wear gloves when handling them. Teach children why they should
not eat them, pointing out the danger, and always keep any pets
away from them and never allow them to eat or chew any part of
the plant. Get immediate medical help if you suspect toxic poi-
soning.

Family:Araceae

S.Foetidus Symplocarpus, is a genus of a small group of flowering plants, known
as Skunk cabbage. All plants of this genus are toxic and have a low to medi-
um toxicity level. Symptoms of toxic poisoning, in humans and animals
could be mouth pain, swelling, irritation, choking, vomiting, difficulty swal-
lowing and excessive drooling. However, small parts of the Skunk cabbage,
like uncurled leaves and roots can be eaten but only after proper prepara-
tion which includes multiple boilings to remove the toxins. Although Na-
S.Renifolius tive American Indians have a history of using the cabbage medicinally, and
eating the roots and other parts, most people are put off eating it by the
smell. It smells awful, hence the name, Skunk, and some parts of it taste re-
volting. Nevertheless, children should be warned of the dangers, and pets
kept from eating or chewing it, as even the smallest amount could lead to
poisoning.