Many harmless-looking plants contain toxins, which can cause mild to severe symptoms upon ingestion. The worst part is that most people aren’t aware of these common plants’ dangers.

If you have young children or pets that tend to chew on things, it’s essential to be aware of the types of plants you have around your environment.

Harmless-Looking Plants But Poisonous

Several seemingly innocuous plants may surprise you with their toxicity levels.

Daffodils (Amaryllidaceae)

Daffodils are common in many gardens, and their bright yellow blooms are often associated with spring. However, all daffodil plants contain toxins called lycorine and narcissine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and even heart rhythm disturbances if ingested in large quantities.

Symptoms may occur within 30 minutes to several hours after ingestion, so it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately if you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms.

Oleander (Nerium oleander)

Oleander is a popular ornamental plant that produces beautiful pink, red, or white flowers. However, every part of the plant contains a toxic substance called oleandrin, which can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, heart rhythm disturbances, and even death if ingested in large quantities. In fact, oleander is considered one of the most poisonous plants in the world. If you suspect someone has ingested any part of an oleander plant, seek medical attention immediately.

Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis)

The delicate white flowers of Lily of the Valley may look innocent enough. Still, they contain a toxin called convallatoxin, which can cause nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and even heart rhythm disturbances if ingested in large quantities. In severe cases, it may even lead to seizures or coma. It’s important to keep this plant out of reach of children and pets, as even a small amount can be toxic.

Castor Bean (Ricinus communis )

Castor Bean plants are often grown as ornamental plants due to their large, attractive leaves and unique seed pods. However, the seeds of these plants contain a potent toxin called ricin, which can cause severe symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death. In fact, ricin is considered one of the most deadly toxins known to humans. It’s important to keep Castor Bean plants out of reach and to wear gloves when handling them.

Philodendron (Philodendron spp.)

Philodendrons are popular houseplants due to their attractive foliage. Still, they contain a toxin called calcium oxalate, which can cause burning and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat if ingested. In severe cases, it may even lead to difficulty breathing. It’s important to keep these plants out of children’s and pets’ reach and wash your hands thoroughly after handling them.

Pothos

The Common Pothos is among the most popular indoor houseplants due to its hardiness, ease of care, and pleasing appearance with its variegated leaves. The Pothos plant has been known to cause toxicity when ingested by children or pets, as it contains calcium oxalate crystals in the leaves, which can irritate the stomach and mouth.

Dumb Cane

Dieffenbachia, or Dumb Cane, is an ornamental household plant grown for its attractive foliage. However, this plant can be dangerous for kids and pets because it produces needle-like calcium oxalate crystals that sting when ingested or touched without gloves. Symptoms may include swelling in the mouth/throat/fingers/tongue/body parts that came in contact with sap from the plant.

English Ivy

English ivy is another common ornamental vine plant used indoors and outdoors for aesthetic purposes. English ivy contains toxic substances like saponins (soap-like chemicals) that may lead to skin irritation and blisters if touched frequently.

Dieffenbachia

Dieffenbachia, also known as Dumb Cane, is a popular choice for houseplants due to its beautiful leaves and tolerance for low-light environments. However, this plant contains a poisonous sap that can cause swelling or burning when it comes in contact with your skin. If ingested, it can cause severe swelling in the throat and mouth, leading to difficulty breathing.

Poinsettia

Poinsettias are commonly used as festive decor during the holiday season because of their bright red foliage. Despite being a staple in many homes, these plants should be kept out of reach from children or pets as poinsettias contain a milky sap that can irritate the mouth and stomach.

Lily of the Valley

The Lily of the Valley is a small white flower with an inviting sweet scent. The entire plant contains toxins called cardiac glycosides which can lead to serious heart problems if ingested.

Tips On How to Keep Safe

To keep yourself and your loved ones safe from the potential harm caused by these plants, here are some tips to consider:

1. Keep all poisonous plants out of reach of children and pets. This may mean placing them on high shelves where they cannot be easily accessed.

2. Wear gloves when handling poisonous plants, especially those that contain sap or toxins that can be absorbed through the skin.

3. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling any poisonous plant.

4. Educate yourself and others about the potential dangers of certain plants, and make sure to label them appropriately.

5. If you suspect someone has ingested a poisonous plant, seek medical attention immediately.

By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the beauty of ornamental plants without putting yourself or others at risk.

Remember

It’s important to note that not all plants are toxic, and some may only cause mild irritation if ingested or touched. However, being cautious when handling plants is essential, especially if you have kids or pets at home.

One way to ensure your safety is to research the plants you bring into your home beforehand. If you’re unsure about a plant’s toxicity level, consult a plant expert or ask for advice from a gardening store. It’s better to be safe than sorry regarding the well-being of yourself and those around you.