List of poisonous ornamental plants

Nice or dangerous? We will show you which ornamental plants in the garden are not only beautiful to look at, but unfortunately also poisonous to us.

There are often a variety of plants in our garden. But what many people don't know: Even the most beautiful plants often hide a great danger. Poisonous plants and parts of plants can lead to dangerous reactions after swallowing or even on skin contact. It is therefore particularly important for parents or pet owners to know which plants pose a secret threat. Here you can find out which ornamental plants are poisonous, which parts of the plant contain the poison and what symptoms occur after poisoning.

Very few adults think of actually eating ornamental plants. Of course, this is different for children and pets. And some plants can also appear poisonous on the outside, no matter how pretty they look. We clarify to avoid poisoning of any kind.

Note: If you suspect that you have consumed a poisonous plant or have symptoms of poisoning, consult a doctor immediately.

Blue Monkshood

It is considered the most poisonous plant in Europe - nevertheless, monkshood (Aconitum napellus) is still grown in some gardens as an ornamental plant. Mere skin contact with the plant can already cause symptoms of poisoning such as cardiac arrhythmia, convulsions or a circulatory collapse. As little as two grams of the root can be fatal to an adult. Therefore, always be particularly careful when handling the plant and wear gloves at all times.

Laburnum

With its golden yellow leaves, Laburnum (Laburnum anagyroides) is a widely popular ornamental shrub. Unfortunately, laburnum is also a poisonous plant: all parts of the plant have a toxic effect, especially the seed can cause paralysis and even respiratory arrest. The laburnum tastes good, in contrastto other poisonous plants, not bitter or unpleasant, but bean-like or even sweet. This makes it particularly dangerous, since in the worst case, larger quantities of children or animals are ingested.

Yew

Especially because of its red fruits, the yew (Taxus baccata) is often used as an ornamental plant in the garden. Nevertheless, one should not nibble on it: apart from the pulp of the berries, all parts of the plant (including the core) are poisonous. Eating yew can lead to impaired consciousness, circulatory collapse or even respiratory paralysis.

Angel Trumpet

The imposing angel's trumpet (Brugmansia syn. Datura) is a popular exotic eye-catcher, especially in pots. Unfortunately, the plant with the large flowers poses a silent threat. All parts of the plant are poisonous and cause impaired consciousness, sedation or even heart failure.

Foxglove

The foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is not only used as an ornamental plant, but also in medicine. However, this plant only belongs in experienced hands: its leaves are highly toxic and, if consumed, lead to heart problems, nausea, blurred vision and hallucinations.

Autumn Crocus

Risk of confusion: Autumn crocus and wild garlic can quickly be confused due to their similar leaves. In contrast to the tasty wild garlic (Allium ursinum), you should not eat the autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale) under any circumstances - all parts of the plant are highly poisonous. Symptoms of autumn crocus poisoning include nausea, vomiting, paralysis, and circulatory failure.

Ilex

Holly (Ilex) doesn't look particularly appetizing with its prickly leaves. Luckily, the leaves and berries of the ornamental plant are poisonous and cause nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal problems, cardiac arrhythmias and even paralysis.

Cherry Laurel

The cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is particularly popular as a hedge plant. However, all parts of the plant, especially leaves and seeds, contain toxic glycosides. Consuming the plant can cause abdominal pain and nausea. As little as ten seeds is considered lethal.

Tree of Life

The tree of life (Thuja) was already widespread in the 70sOrnamental plant that was particularly popular for evergreen, robust hedges. However, the essential oils contained in the tree of life should not be underestimated: Sensitive people can experience skin irritation, consumption even leads to vomiting, diarrhea or kidney damage. The plant is also poisonous for animals, which is why the green waste should never be fed.

Lily of the Valley

Lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) looks sweet and innocent. In reality, however, it causes poisoning again and again because it is confused with wild garlic. Despite its pretty appearance, the lily of the valley is poisonous and can cause numerous symptoms, from nausea to circulatory collapse and death.

Oleanders

The oleander (Nerium oleander) brings Mediterranean flair to every home. No wonder, then, that the plant is one of the most popular potted plants. Unfortunately, the oleander is also poisonous. Not only can it cause severe allergic reactions when touched, it can also cause severe indigestion. Ingesting large amounts of the poisonous leaves and twigs can even lead to cardiac arrhythmias or cardiac paralysis.

Spinapore

The colorful flowers and berries of the Euonymus europaeus (Euonymus europaeus) look funny and almost invite you to collect them. Nevertheless, one should not eat the ornamental plant - all its plant parts are poisonous. Stomach pain, nausea and gastrointestinal problems are common symptoms of poisoning. Even the wood dust of the bush can cause a slight feeling of dizziness.

Castor

Striking autumn colors, interesting leaf shape and beautiful infructescence - the exotic ricinus (Ricinus communis), also known as the miracle tree, is a popular ornamental plant. Unfortunately, the seed of the tree is highly toxic: vomiting, cramps and diarrhea are the first signs of poisoning. What is particularly insidious about castor oil poisoning is that the more severe symptoms only appear after a few days. The poison can inflame the kidneys and cause thrombosis, which in the worst case can lead to death.

Rhododendron

Most gardens can hardly be imagined without the beautiful rhododendron (Rhododendron). Unfortunately, however, allParts of the plant, including the great flowers of the rhododendron, are poisonous to humans and animals. If the plant is ingested, it can cause nausea, dizziness and irritation of the mucous membranes. Cardiac arrhythmias or even respiratory paralysis can only occur with large quantities.

Dpharm

Mezereon (Daphne mezereum) is not only used as an ornamental plant because of its beautiful flowers, but also because of its red berries. But since the berries of the plant look amazingly similar to those of the currant (Ribes), the plant is particularly dangerous for children. The poison is particularly concentrated in the seeds and bark of the tree and causes swelling of the mucous membranes in the mouth, gastrointestinal problems, dizziness and circulatory collapse. For children, eating as little as four to five berries can be fatal.

Datura

With its strikingly beautiful funnel-shaped flowers, Datura (Datura stramonium) looks very similar to Angel's Trumpet. Unfortunately, the pretty plant is also just as dangerous - despite the "apple" in the name, the thorn apple is not edible, but poisonous in all parts. Hallucinations, fever and impaired consciousness are symptoms that can occur after ingestion of small amounts.

Deadly Nightshade

The deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna) is often the culprit when it comes to poisoning in the garden. All parts of the plant, but especially the berries, have a toxic effect. Hallucinations, madness, convulsions and even death can occur upon consumption. Caution is advised, especially with children: the berries have a deliciously sweet taste and are therefore a popular food - but a dose of three to four berries can kill a child.