Page 9 - The world of dangerous PLants

Family:Colchicaceae
C.autumnale C. speciosum Colchicum is a genus of around 160 species of perennial flowering
corm growing plants generally known as Autumn crocus. All plants in
this genus are highly toxic and have a medium to high toxicity level.
Symptoms of toxic poisoning, for both humans and animals, could in-
clude, burning in the mouth and throat, vomiting, diarrhoea, liver and
kidney problems, blood disorders, nerve problems, shock, organ failure
even death. Although safe to touch, due to its potential to poison, it’s
C. cilicicum C. lusitanum
always wise to wear gloves when handling these plants. The corms and
seeds are the most poisonous; eating the smallest amount can kill an
adult. Children should be kept away from these plants, or at least firmly
warned of the danger they pose. Pets should never be allowed to chew
or eat any part of them. If you suspect toxic poisoning always call medi-
cal help immediately

Family:Orchidaceae
Cymbidium is a genus of numerous species of evergreen flower-
C.Iridioides C.aloifolium ing plants commonly known as Boat orchids. All the plants of this ge-
nus are said to be non-toxic to both humans and animals, though it’s
strongly recommended that pets and children are discouraged from
eating any part of them. Symptoms of poisoning in pets have been
known, and can be severe vomiting or diarrhoea. Children eating these
plants have been known to become quite unwell. Some hybrid Cym-
C.bicolor C.suave bidiums are known to be toxic, and it’s always been known that all the
plants of this genus do cause, in some people, varying allergic reac-
tions, from a mild skin irritation to full blown blisters and painful
burns. When handling any plant from this genus you should always be
cautious, wear gloves when handling them and never eat them unless
you know exactly what you are doing.

Family:Ranunculaceae

A.rubra A.pachypoda Actaea is a genus of around 33 species of perennial herba-
ceous flowering plants commonly called baneberry. All plants in
this genus are highly toxic and have a medium to high toxicity
level. Symptoms of toxic poisoning can be vomiting, delirium,
stomach cramps, nausea, dizziness, pulse irregularities, and car-
diac arrest. Although safe to touch, it’s always wise to wear gloves
when handling them. Animals are particularly susceptible to the
A.asiatica A.racemosa baneberry toxins, with only a little needed to be fatal. Humans,
especially children, are also very susceptible to the ripe succulent
berries; ingesting just a few can cause death. Due to their size,
children are very vulnerable to the baneberry toxins and should
be schooled in the real danger they pose, and pets must never be
allowed to chew or eat any part of them.