A Series of Ornamental Plants Containing Lethal Toxins

Growing a few small ornamental plants at home or in the workplace is a popular hobby for many people. However, biologists warn that among these plants, there are many types that contain toxins that can be lethal if ingested.

Dr. Bui Van Le from the University of Science in Ho Chi Minh City advises that families with small children should not grow any types of flowers or ornamental plants. This is because some ornamental plants might be extremely toxic without parents being aware.

He stated: “It is best for parents, grandparents, and caregivers to be cautious and absolutely not let children play with, handle, or put any leaves of these plants into their mouths. Moreover, children can also play with the soil in the pots, which can be very dirty and easy to become infected with parasites. These ornamental plants are not only toxic to children but also to adults.”

1. Oleander

The scientific name is Nerium oleander. The entire plant contains extremely toxic substances such as Oleandrin and Neriin. People can suffer poisoning from contact with the plant or ingestion. Symptoms can range from nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and heart rhythm disturbances to severe cases leading to loss of bodily control and coma. If not treated promptly, it can lead to death.

Drying or cooking does not eliminate the toxicity of this plant. Do not plant oleander near water sources (drinking wells, water tanks…) because fallen leaves and flowers can contaminate the water. There have been numerous reports of children being poisoned by the sap of oleander flowers worldwide.

Currently, oleander is widely planted along streets, in flower gardens, and public spaces.

2. Lantana

The scientific name is Lantana spp. The fruit contains toxic compounds such as Lantanin alkaloid or lantadene A which can burn the intestines, cause muscle relaxation, disrupt blood circulation, and may lead to death.

3. Glory Lily

The scientific name is Gloriosa superba. The bulb and seeds contain the highly toxic compound Colchicine and other alkaloids that, if ingested, can cause tongue numbness, loss of sensation, and in severe cases, coma; if not treated promptly, it can lead to death.

4. Deadly Nightshade, Some Ornamental Eggplants, Forget-Me-Not

The scientific name is Datura metel, belonging to the Solanaceae family. Contact with any part of the plant can cause rashes, itching, dizziness, headaches, hallucinations, coma, and can lead to blindness or death.

Thanks to the toxic substances in the flowers and leaves, Deadly Nightshade is also used as a medicine, which can treat asthma, motion sickness, and skin infections when used in controlled doses.

5. Azalea

Azaleas symbolize romantic love, expressing fidelity and the strong bond between couples. The warm and vibrant nature of this flower immediately captures the attention of beauty lovers. While it can absorb toxins to purify the air, azaleas themselves contain many toxins, especially the white and yellow varieties. The scientific name is Rhododendron occidentale. All parts of the plant contain toxic substances such as Andromedotoxin and Arbutin glucoside.

Individuals poisoned by this plant often experience symptoms such as nausea, drooling, vomiting, lethargy, dizziness, difficulty breathing, and imbalance. A quantity of 100 to 225 grams of azalea leaves is enough to cause severe poisoning in a 25 kg child.

6. Bird of Paradise

The scientific name is Strelitzia reginae. The flowers and seeds of this plant contain substances that can cause gastrointestinal poisoning. Contact with or ingestion of the flowers or seeds can result in nausea, diarrhea, and dizziness.

7. Caladium

The scientific name is Caladium hortulanum. All parts of the plant contain toxic Calcium oxalate and Asparagine. Ingestion can lead to the risk of burns and irritation in the mouth and intestinal mucosa.

8. Arum Lily

The scientific name is Zantedeschia aethiopica. Both the leaves and tubers of this plant contain gastrointestinal toxic Calcium oxalate. Ingesting this plant can lead to vomiting and severe irritation of the mucous membranes.

9. Crown of Thorns

The scientific name is Euphorbia milii splendens. The sap of the plant can cause skin irritation upon contact.

10. Cyclamen

The scientific name is Cyclamen persicum. The tuber of the plant contains Alkaloids that can cause nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting if ingested.

11. String of Pearls

The String of Pearls, also known as Sedum morganianum, is a succulent plant suitable for potting and hanging decoration that can add a touch of greenery and liveliness to your window.

While this plant also helps purify the air, if you decide to grow it, be aware that it is toxic due to the presence of glucosides. This compound is very harmful to the human body; if accidentally ingested, it can cause fatigue, diarrhea, and even respiratory issues, leading to difficulty breathing and heart rhythm irregularities.

12. Giant Taro

The scientific name is Colocasia spp. All parts of this plant contain calcium oxalate and asparagine, which can cause itching and a burning sensation in the throat, as well as diarrhea if ingested.

13. Anthurium

The scientific name is Anthurium spp. All parts of this plant contain calcium oxalate and asparagine toxins. Ingesting this plant can cause a burning sensation in the throat, stomach, and intestines.

14. Hyacinth

The scientific name is Hyacinth orientalis. The bulbs of the hyacinth contain alkaloid toxins that can cause cramps, bloating, nausea, and diarrhea if ingested.

15. Hydrangea

Hydrangeas are beautiful flowers commonly used for indoor decoration. Many may be surprised to learn that hydrangeas contain toxic substances.

The scientific name is Hydrangea macrophylla. The leaves and bulbs of this plant contain hydragin-cyanogenic glycosides that can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and rapid breathing. Additionally, if you have sensitive skin, the small pollen grains released by hydrangea flowers can cause allergic reactions upon contact.

16. Three-Sided Cactus

The three-sided cactus is toxic, especially the white sap present throughout the plant. This is mentioned in many medical works in Vietnam, such as “Vietnamese Medicinal Plants and Their Properties” and “Medicinal Plants and Their Use in Vietnam.”

According to doctors, the three-sided cactus is a medicinal plant with many uses, such as purging, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, but it should only be used externally and under guidance. Medical studies emphasize that inexperienced individuals should not use this plant.

Experts warn that even when used externally, the sap from the three-sided cactus can cause irritation, damage to the skin’s mucous membranes (especially in cases of thin or scratched skin), and can lead to burning, blistering, and redness. Additionally, if the sap accidentally gets into the eyes, it can cause blindness.

17. Daffodil

Daffodils (scientific name: Narcissus spp) exude a gentle and pure beauty, but few know they contain very toxic alkaloids that can cause dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, trembling, and even coma, which can lead to death if consumed. Furthermore, the flowers resemble onion bulbs, while the leaves look like garlic leaves, making them easy to confuse if not examined closely.

18. Some Types of Philodendron (Philodendron spp.)

The scientific name is Philodendron spp. The leaves and stems contain calcium oxalate toxins that can cause diarrhea, nausea, and a burning sensation in the mouth if ingested.

19. Tulip

The scientific name is Tulipa spp. The bulbs contain tulipene, which can cause dizziness and nausea if ingested.

20. Water Hyacinth

The scientific name is Eichhornia crassipes. All parts of the plant are toxic and can cause indigestion and vomiting in dogs, cats, and other pets if ingested.

21. Amaryllis

Amaryllis (scientific name: Hippeastrum puniceum) is a popular flower chosen by many to decorate homes during the Lunar New Year. Amaryllis boasts vibrant red colors and remarkable resilience. However, the bulbs contain the toxin lycorine, which can cause diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting if ingested. The sap can also induce vomiting if consumed. Avoid direct contact with the skin as it may cause burning and itching.

22. Jatropha

The scientific name is Jatropha podagrica. The entire plant, especially the bulbs and seeds, contains the toxic substance curcin, which can cause dizziness and nausea if ingested.

23. Dieffenbachia

This plant, known as dumb cane, belongs to the arum family and is popular for its beautiful appearance, often chosen as an indoor decorative plant. All parts of this plant are toxic, from the roots to the leaves. Therefore, avoid touching them when moving and caring for them. If you accidentally come into contact with the sap, soothe the area with heat, such as warming it or washing with warm water.

The sap can cause itching. If ingested, it may cause lip numbness, tongue redness, and throat itching. Children who eat the leaves, flowers, or fruit of this plant may experience poisoning.

24. Century Plant

The century plant (also known as the agave plant) is a succulent shrub that lives for many years, with sharp, serrated leaves. In its natural environment, it can grow to 2-4 meters, with green foliage similar to lily flowers. When mature, it can bloom with bright yellow flowers that attract birds, flies, and insects to collect nectar without being affected by the plant’s sap.

According to recommendations from Homeguides, the sap of this plant is quite toxic and can cause severe skin irritation or digestive issues. Pets and even humans who come into contact with this sap can suffer from poisoning.

The century plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which produce a compound called saponin. Saponin is also found in many plant families, some variants of which are extremely toxic and can cause severe skin irritation if ingested. Additionally, if humans or animals accidentally absorb saponin into their bodies, it becomes very difficult to digest.

Common symptoms of exposure to the sap of the century plant include rashes, burning and itching of the skin, and eye injuries, lasting from 24 to 48 hours. The sharp edges of the needle-like leaves contain sap that can pierce the skin and potentially cause infection if not treated properly. Furthermore, if any part of the century plant is ingested, both humans and animals may experience vomiting or diarrhea.

25. Cycad

This plant should not be grown in enclosed spaces as it can cause illness, poisoning, and even death without any physical contact. The bark and tips of the Ginkgo biloba tree contain potent toxins that can lead to cancer or chronic neurological disorders.

26. Bellflower

The toxins in the flowers and fruits of this plant can be fatal if ingested.

27. Yew Tree

The Yew Tree, or Taxus baccata (with “taxus” meaning poison), is a large shrub commonly found in European forests, known for its evergreen leaves. The soft, bright red fruit may look appealing but contains a dark brown seed that is highly toxic, with no known antidote available today.

Anyone who consumes the seed will die within minutes, as the toxin causes spasms and paralysis. It has historically been used as an abortifacient, but most cases result in death.

28. Black Cherry (Nightshade)

The fruit of the Black Cherry can cause loss of voice, respiratory disturbances, seizures, and may be fatal to small children if ingested.

29. Money Plant

The Money Plant is considered the top feng shui plant for families, symbolizing luck and wealth. However, caution is required as the stems and leaves contain calcium oxalate, which can cause burning sensations and throat irritation if consumed. Severe cases can lead to swelling, suffocation, and gastric bleeding. Tree sap that comes into contact with the eyes can also negatively affect vision.

30. Poinsettia

In addition to its vibrant beauty, the Poinsettia flower symbolizes academic achievement. However, if you have young children, you should consider whether to keep this plant. The sap from the Poinsettia can cause a burning sensation upon direct contact with skin, particularly around the eyes, leading to rashes and irritation.

31. Foxglove

Also known as Digitalis, this beautiful purple flower is often found in ornamental gardens or used as a houseplant. What many do not realize is that the leaves, flowers, and even the seeds contain a substance called digoxin, which can be fatal to both animals and humans if ingested.

Due to this dangerous toxicity, growing Foxglove at home can pose health risks to your family and pets.

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