Page 59 - The world of dangerous PLants

Family:Caprifoliaceae

Symphoricarpos is a small genus of about 15 species of deciduous
S.Albus S.× chenaultii shrubs with the common name Snowberry. Most plants of this genus
are toxic and have a low to medium toxicity level. Symptoms of toxic
poisoning for humans and animals can be vomiting, dizziness, head-
aches, upset stomach, and tiredness. The berries of most of these plants
are mildly toxic. Also, the berries of some species like, S. orbiculatus,
are reportedly safe to eat raw or cooked. Caution, however, should be
S.Mollis S.Rotundifolius
exercised when considering the effect these toxins have on the average
adult. Children and pets are much smaller in build, and would require
much smaller amounts before toxic poisoning occurs. Children should
be warned of the danger these plants might pose and discourage them
from eating the berries. Pets should be kept away from them, and never
allowed to eat or chew any part of them.

Family:Asparagaceae
Polygonatum, is a genus of numerous flowering plants known as
P.Arisanense P.Biflorum Solomon's seal. Most parts, including the berries, of the plants in this ge-
nus are regarded as toxic and have a low to medium toxicity level. Symp-
toms of toxic poisoning, for both humans and animals could be drooling,
vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach complaints, and nausea. Some parts, when
properly prepared, are deemed edible. They are the roots, rhizomes and
tender young shoots. These plants have a history across China, Asia, and
P.Humile P.× hybridum Europe of being used in traditional medicines, to make tea and other
drinks, or dried to make a type of flour. However, not all the plants in this
genus have been studied and some plants like P.pubescens and P.x hy-
bridum are believed to be totally toxic. If you have one of these plants in
your care you should research its toxicity using its scientific name. Other-
wise, treat it with caution, never eat any part of it, and always wear gloves
when handling it.

Family:Fabaceae

Spartium is a genus with only one flowering shrub, Spanish broom
(S.junceum). All parts of this shrub are toxic, with its seeds and leaves being
highly toxic. It has a low to medium toxicity level. Symptoms of toxic poisoning
for both humans and animals could be mouth and throat irritation, salivation,
vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, headaches, confusion, drowsiness, and
hallucinations. Consuming large amounts could result in death. However,
Spanish broom, does have an industrial history of being used as a fragrance in
soaps and cosmetics and as a medication for treating constipation, fluid reten-
tion, and heart function. It's also used as a flavouring in foods and beverages.
Most people, on the other hand, know this shrub as an ornamental garden
plant. In this role it’s toxic and harmful and should be treated with caution;
children and pets should be kept away from it, and you should always wear
gloves when handling it.