Plants Poisonous to Dogs

Listed below are links to the ASPCA® Animal Poison Control Center's information on some common garden and household plants that can be poisonous to your pet. This may not represent a complete list of all poisonous plants. Also, your pet may have a sensitivity or allergy to a plant that is not on the list, resulting in toxicity. Always contact your veterinarian immediately if you think your pet may have ingested a poisonous plant. If you don't find the information you're seeking listed below, click here for our additional sources of information, many including specific effects and plant photos from the various veterinary/horticultural schools.

Special Notice: Several recent reports of dogs having kidney failure after ingesting large amount of grapes or raisins has the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center investigating to determine the causative agents or disease processes. Click here for information.

Harmful Plants (first source)
Amaryllis - bulbs
American Yew
Avocado
Azalea - leaves
Balsam Pear - seeds, outer rind of fruit
Baneberry - berries, root
Bird of Paradise - seeds
Black Locust - bark, sprouts, foliage
Blue-green Algae - some forms toxic
Boxwood - leaves, stems
Buckthorn - fruit, bark
Buttercup - sap, bulbs
Caladium - leaves
Calla Lily - leaves
Castor Bean - also castor oil, leaves
Chalice Vine/Trumpet vine
Christmas Candle - sap
Clematis/Virginia Bower
Coral Plant - seeds
Cowslip/Marsh Marigold
Daffodil - bulbs
Daphne - berries
Datura - berries
Deadly Amanita
Death Camas
Delphinium
Deffenbachia/Dumb Cane - leaves
Eggplant - fruit okay
Elephants Ear/Taro - leaves, stem
English Ivy berries, leaves
English Yew
False Henbane
Fly Agaric Mushroom - Deadly Amanita
Foxglove - leaves, seeds
Golden Chain/Laburnum
Hemlock - also water the plant is in
Henbane - seeds
Holly - berries
Horse Chestnut/Buckeye - nuts, twigs
Hyacinth - bulbs
Hydrangea - flower bud
Indian Turnip/Jack-in-Pulpit
Iris/Blue Flag - bulbs
Jack-in-the-Pulpit
Japanese Yew - needles, seeds
Java Bean - lima bean - uncooked
Juniper - needles, stems, berries
Lantana - immature berries
Larkspur
Laurel
Lily of the Valley - also water the plant is in
Lobelia
Locoweed
Lords and Ladies/Cuckoopint
Marijuana/Hemp - leaves
Mayapple - fruit is safe
Mescal Beans - seeds
Mistletoe - berries
Mock Orange - fruit
Monkshood/Aconite - leaves, root
Morning Glory
Narcissus - bulbs
Nightshade - all varieties
Oleander - leaves, branches, nectar
Philodendron - leaves and stem
Pointsetta - leaves, roots, immature
Poison Ivy - sap
Poison Oak - sap
Pokeweed/Inkberry - leaf,root,young berries
Potato - eyes, new shoots
Privet
Rhododendron
Rhubarb - leaves
Rosary Peas/Indian Licorice - seeds
Skunk Cabbage
Snowdrop
Snow on the Mountain/Ghostweed
Sweet Pea - seeds, fruit
Tobacco - leaves
Virginia Creeper - sap
Water Hemlock
Western Yew
Wisteria
Yam bean - roots, immature roots

Harmful Plants (other sources)
Alacia
Apricot
Autumn Crocus/Meadow Saffron
Beans - all types if uncooked
Birch
Bittersweet Nightshade
Bleeding Heart/Dutchman's Breeches
Bloodroot
Bracken Fern
Broomcorn Grass
Candelabra Tree
Cardinal Flower
Cherry Tree - bark, twigs, leaves, pits
Chinaberry Tree
Crown of Thorns
Croton
Elderberry
Euonymus/Spindle Tree
False Hellebore
Ficus (weeping)
Firethorn/Pyracantha
Four O'Clock
Glory Bean
Ground Cherry
Honey Locust
Honeysuckle
Horsetail
Indian Licorice Bean
Ivy
Jasmine
Jimsonweed/Thornapple
Jerusalem Cherry - berries
Johnson Grass
Kentucky Coffee Tree
Lupines/Bluebonnet
Mandrake
Mango Tree - wood,leaves,rind-fruit safe
Moonseed
Mountain Laurel
Mushrooms - several varieties
Nectarine
Nettles
Nutmeg
Oak - acorns, foliage
Peach
Peanuts - raw
Pencil Tree
Periwinkle
Pigweed
Pikeweed
Pine needles - berries
Plum
Pothos
Prune
Rain Tree
Ranunculus/Buttercup
Red Maple
Sandbox Tree
Scarlet Runner Beans
Snowflake
Sorghum Grass
Sorrel
Sudan Grass
Tansy Ragwort
Vetch
Yello Jasmine
Yew (Amer,Engl,Japan) - needles, thistles

Other Poisonous Plants List
It is difficult to create a list of poisonous plants. While some plants are outright toxic to anyone who eats or comes in contact with the plant (Jimson Weed, nightshade), others may cause a reaction in some but not in others.
The following is a listing of plants normally thought to be poisonous. The list is not complete. People should not eat plants not grown as food crops. Children should be taught never to eat non-food crop plants.And you should restrict your pets' access to questionable plants.
Poisonous plants vary between animals. Don't assume that since a bird, squirrel or pig ate a plant with no problems, others (human or rabbit) can do the same.
Unless otherwise stated, consider all parts of the plant poisonous.
Never hesitate to seek medical aid if you think a person or animal has ingested a poisonous substance.

Agave (leaves)
Amaryllis (bulbs)
Apple (seeds)
AzaleaBird of Paradise (seeds)
BloodrootButtercup (leaves)
Black Locust (seeds)
Boxwood (leaves/twigs)
Buckeye (seeds)
Buckthorn (berries)
CaladiumCalla (rhizome)
Castor Bean (seed)
Christmas RoseCone FlowerCrown of ThornsDaffodilDaphneDelphiniumDumbcane (Dieffenbachia)
Eggplant (plant)
Elderberry (unripe berries)
Elephant EarFlowering
TobaccoFoxgloveHolly (berries)
Horsechestnut (nuts)
HyacinthIrisIvy, Boston & English (berries)
Jack-in-the-PulpitJerusalem CherryJimson WeedJonquilLantanaLarkspurLily-of-the-ValleyLupineMayappleMistletoe (berries)
Morning Glory (seeds)
Mustard (root)
Narcissus
NicotianaNightshade
Oleander
PhilodendronPoison
HemlockPoison Ivy
Potato (green)
Privet (berries)
Ranunculus
Rhododendron
Rhubarb (leaf blade)
Rosary Pea (seed)
Snow-on-the-MountainSweet Pea (seeds)
Sweet PotatoSkunk CabbageTansyTomato (leaves)
TulipVirginia Creeper (berries)
Water HemlockWisteria (seeds/pods)Yew (berries)

Arrow POISNING
Poisons are used to poison arrow heads or darts for the purposes of hunting. They have been used by almost all primitive peoples worldwide and are still in use in areas of South America, Africa and Asia.
Notable examples are the poisons secreted from the skin of the poison arrow frog and curare (or 'ampi'), a general term for a range of plant-derived arrow poisons used by the indigenous peoples of South America.[1]
Poisoned arrows have featured in mythology, notably the Greek story of the slaying of Achilles by Paris, and Balder's death in the Norse myths.

Be aware of the plants you have in your house and in your yard. The ingestion of a poisonous plant can be fatal.

When cleaning your house, never allow your cat access to the area where cleaning agents are used or stored. Cleaning agents have a variety of properties. Some may only cause a mild stomach upset, while others could cause severe burns of the tongue, mouth, and stomach.

When using rat or mouse baits, ant or roach traps, or snail and slug baits, place the products in areas that are inaccessible to your cat. Most baits contain sweet-smelling, inert ingredients, such as jelly, peanut butter, and sugars, which can be very attractive to your pet.

Never give your animal any medications unless under the directions of a veterinarian. Many medications that are used safely in humans can be deadly when used inappropriately. One extra-strength acetaminophen tablet (500mg) can kill a 7 lb. cat.

Keep all prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs out of the reach of your cat, preferably in closed cabinets. Painkillers, cold medicines, anti-cancer drugs, antidepressants, vitamins, and diet pills are common examples of human medications that could be potentially lethal, even in small dosages.

Never leave chocolates unattended. Approximately one half ounce or less of baking chocolate per pound of body weight can cause problems. Even small amounts can cause pancreatic problems

Common Name Parthenium
weedBotanical NameParthenium hysterophorus L.StatusParthenium weed is one of only fourteen weeds proclaimed as State Prohibited Weeds in Victoria. This is the highest category to which a noxious weed can be allocated. As yet there is no known infestation of parthenium weed in Victoria.OriginParthenium weed is native to the Caribbean. It is suspected that it was introduced to Australia during World War II. It is a major weed in Queensland and parts of New South Wales and in India.DescriptionAn upright annual herb in the family Asteraceae. Parthenium weed has a deep taproot and grows to a height of 30 to 150 cm. Stems - one main stem which branches in the upper half of the plant; grooved lengthwise, becoming woody with age
Chemical Control
Under Victorian legislation there are controls on various aspects of the uses of agricultural chemicals. Some particular uses are prohibited and some require permits. Users of certain agricultural chemicals are required to obtain an Agricultural Chemical User Permit (ACUP) or work under the direct supervision of an ACUP holder. Additional restrictions on the use of some herbicides apply to particular geographic areas known as Chemical Control Areas (CCA

Poisonous Hazards
Dogs are curious animals and have a tendency to consume anything they come across. If you suspect that your dog has ingested a poisonous substance, contact your veterinarian immediately. The longer poison is in the dog's system, the more extensive the damage.
The following are some common poisonous hazards and their effects.
Insecticides and parasite medications. Flea and tick sprays, shampoos and collars. Worm medications must be used according to directions. Signs of overuse of these chemicals are trembling and weakness, drooling, vomiting, and loss of bowel control.
Rodent poisons.Most rat poisons thin the blood so it is unable to clot. Inducing vomiting before 30 minutes have lapsed will usually get rid of the poison. Poisons containing strychnine, such as those used for gophers, can cause rapid death.
Acids, alkalis, and petroleum products. Vomiting should not be induced if these products have been ingested. You can give antacids, approximately 2 teaspoons per 5 pounds of body weight, to temporarily counteract acids. For ingestion of alkali, use 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water and administer as you would antacids.
Antifreeze.This substance is sweet tasting which can draw animals to drink it. It is extremely toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. Call your veterinarian immediately. To prevent accidental ingestion, use an animal-safe antifreeze in your vehicles.
Toxic plants
Depending on the toxicity level of the plant, the effects of ingesting certain plants can range from upset stomach and vomiting to coma and death. To protect your pet, you should be aware of the toxicity level of all house plants as well as those in your yard. Be aware that the toxicity level of a particular plant may vary in its parts, such as stem, leaves, roots. It is also important to know that different breeds of pets may be affected differently. If you have trouble identifying a particular plant, contact a local nursery.
If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant, call your veterinarian immediately. Some plants can cause significant, and sometimes irreversible, damage to internal organs in a short period of time.
Very toxic
Lily: Easter Lily, Tiger Lily, Japanese Show Lily, Day Lily, and others in the Liliaceae family. (The Peace Lily and the Calla Lily are in other plant families.)
Cats: Kidney failure and death. Only a small amount of an ingested leaf can lead to serious problems. Early warning signs include vomiting, dull appetite, and loss of appetite. Treatment should begin immediately.
Mistletoe
The American Mistletoe (often used at Christmas) produces severe irritation of the digestive tract, low heart rate, low body temperature, difficulty breathing, unsteadiness, excessive thirst, and sometimes seizure, coma, and death.
Hydrangea
This plant contains a cyanide-type toxin which is acts very fast. It leads to oxygen starvation with a very quick onset of symptoms including death.
Oleander
All parts of the plant have a high toxicity level. Ingestion leads to irritation of the digestive tract, vomiting, diarrhea, heart irregularities, depression, and often death. Even a small amount can lead to death. Fresh leaves are bitter; wilted and dead leaves are more palatable, but are still highly toxic.
Moderately toxic
Philodendron and Dieffenbachia (Dumbcane)
This plant contains oxalic acid salts that cause irritation in the mouth, excessive saliva production, and sometimes diarrhea when roots, leaves, or stem are ingested.
Rhododendron (Azalea)
Ingestion of leaves generally leads to digestive pain and irritation, abnormal heart function, tremors, and sometimes seizures, coma, and death.
Candelabra Cactus (Crown of Thorns)
The ingestion of leaves generally results in mild to moderate digestive upsets including excessive salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Minimally to Moderately toxic
Poinsetta
The ingestion of leaves generally results in mild to moderate upset in the digestive tract including excessive salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Holly
Ingestion results in upset in the digestive tract as well as nervous system depression. This plant contains some of the same toxic components as found in chocolate (caffeine.)
Minimally toxic
English Ivy
Leaves and berries may cause digestive system irritation, diarrhea, breathing difficulties, and rarely, coma or even death.
Other plants that may cause vomiting and diarrhea:
Castor BeanSoap BerryGround CherrySkunk CabbageDaffodilDelphiniumFoxgloveLarkspurIndian TobaccoIndian TurnipPokeweedBittersweet WoodyWisteria
Other plants that may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain:
AlmondApricotJerusalem CherryWild CherryBalsam PearChrysanthemumHyacinthJapanese PlumBird of Paradise BushHorse Chestnut (Buckeye)English HollyBlack LocustMock OrangePrivetRain Tree (Monkey Pod)Sago PalmTulipYew (American, English, Western Yew)
Other plants that may cause varied reactions:
Mescal beanMushroom (if toxic to humans)Sunburned potatoesRhubarbSpinachTomato VineButtercupDologetonPoison HemlockJasmineLoco WeedLupineMatrimony VineMay Apple
Toxic foods
Grapes and Raisins
There have been a few reports of kidney failure due to LARGE amounts being ingested. Until further studies are done, it is wise not to feed your pet large quantities of either.
Chocolate
Chocolate can be fatal to pets. It is best to keep chocolate away from pets.
Toxic household products
AcetaminophenAntifreeze and other car fluidsBleachBoric AcidCleaning fluidDeodorantsDeodorizersDetergentsDisinfectantsDrain cleanersFurniture polishGasolineHair coloringsWeed killersInsecticidesKeroseneMatchesMothballsNail polish Nail polish removerPaintPrescription medicineRat poisonRubbing alcoholShoe polishSleeping pillsSnail or slug baitTurpentineWindshield-wiper fluid

JAPALA

Small shrub or tree up to 12 m tall, evergreen; leaves alternate, membranous, ovate with broadly rounded, sometimes slightly decurrent base, acuminate, acute or blunt, very shallowly serrate, glabrous above, with few stellate hairs beneath, 7.5-17 cm long, 4-9.5 cm broad, metallic green to bronze or orange; petiole slender, about 4 cm long; stipules caducous, subulate, 1.5- 3.5 mm long; axis of inflorescence glabrous; flowers small, inconspicuous; male flowers stellately hairy with narrowly oblong petals and 15-20 stamens; female flowers apetalous; capsule scabrid with stellate hairs, triangular, 15-20 mm long, 10-15 mm broad, oblong or ellipsoid, 3-lobed; seeds 3 per fruit, oblong-ovoid, orange, about 12 mm long, C.S.I.R. reports that the oil contains 3.4% toxic resin. Of the acids, 37.0% is oleic, 19.0% linoleic, 1.5% arachidic, 0.3% stearic, 0.9% palmitic, 7.5% myristic, 0.6% acetic, 0.8% formic, with traces of lauric, tiglic, valeric, and butyric, plus some unidentified.
to New Guinea and Java, north into Indonesia and China. Wild throughout the Philippine Islands, where it is also cultivated to a limited extent; often becoming naturalized after cultivation. Grown in southern California and elsewhere as an ornamental and curious plant.

WHAT IS POISONUS PLANT

Poisonous Plants, plants containing substances that, taken into the body of humans or animals in small or moderate amounts, provoke a harmful reaction resulting in illness or death. Possibly as many as one out of each 100 species of plants is poisonous, but not all have been recognized as such. Dangerous plants are widely distributed in woods (baneberry) and fields (star-of-Bethlehem), swamps (false hellebore) and dry ranges (scrub oak), roadsides (climbing bittersweet) and parks (kalmia), and may be wild (celandine) or cultivated (wisteria). Many ornamental plants, such as oleander, lily of the valley, and mistletoe, are poisonous.
Botanists have no set rules to determine accurately whether any given plant is poisonous. Toxic species are scattered geographically, in habitat, and in botanical relationship. They contain more than 20 kinds of poisonous principles, primarily alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, resinoids, oxalates, photosensitizing compounds, and mineral compounds such as selenium or nitrates accumulated from the soil. The poisonous compound may be distributed throughout all parts of the plant (poison hemlock), or it may accumulate in one part more than any other, such as the root (water hemlock), berry (daphne), or foliage (wild cherries). A plant may vary in toxicity as it grows, generally becoming more toxic with maturity; certain plants, however, can be highly toxic when young and harmless later (cocklebur).
Some active principles cause skin irritation directly (nettle); others bring about an allergenic reaction (poison ivy). Most poisons, however, must enter the body before they act, and in almost all cases this happens when they are eaten. Usually more than 57 g (2 oz) of the poisonous portion of the plant must be eaten by an average adult before poisoning will result (the amount is proportionately less for children). Some plants, however, are toxic in small amounts; for instance, one or two castor beans, the seeds of the castor-oil plant, may kill a child.
After ingestion, the poison may act immediately on the digestive tract (dumbcane, euphorbia, nightshade), producing severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and possibly internal bleeding, or it may be absorbed into the bloodstream. If so, it passes first to the liver, which may be injured. Oxalates crystallize in the kidneys (rhubarb), rupturing the tubules. Some plants affect the heart (oleander). Small amounts of principles in some of these (digitalis) may be used in medicine. Plants containing alkaloids often produce unpleasant or dangerous reactions in the nervous system. Examples are paralysis (poison hemlock), hallucinations (jimsonweed), or heart block (yew).
A few poisons act directly within the cells of the body. The best example is cyanide, released from a glycoside in the plant (wild cherries), which prevents cells of the body from using oxygen. In contrast, unusually high levels of nitrates in plants combine with the hemoglobin of the blood so that it can no longer carry oxygen to the body cells. Some reactions are highly specific. Bracken destroys bone marrow, in which blood cells are formed. Saint John’s wort contains a poison that, when ingested by animals, reacts with sunlight to produce severe sunburn and lesions on exposed skin.
Poisonous plants are too numerous to eradicate, and many are highly prized as houseplants or garden ornamentals. If poisoning is suspected, a physician or the local poison control center should be consulted immediately. See also Poison.

GODA KADURU

Strychnos Tree
The strychnos tree yields a varied crop of poison, medicine, and food. Aboriginal groups use the bark and leaves of the plant to make curare, a paralyzing poison used in hunting. Some species of the plant yield a quininelike medicine; and the fruit of the natal orange variety is cultivated for commercial use.

Caster been (Edaru)

The seeds from the castor bean plant, Ricinus communis, are poisonous to people, animals and insects. One of the main toxic proteins is "ricin", named by Stillmark in 1888 when he tested the beans' extract on red blood cells and saw them agglutinate. Now we know that the agglutination was due to another toxin that was also present, called RCA (Ricinus communis agglutinin). Ricin is a potent cytotoxin but a weak hemagglutinin, whereas RCA is a weak cytotoxin and a powerful hemagglutinin.
Poisoning by ingestion of the castor bean is due to ricin, not RCA, because RCA does not penetrate the intestinal wall, and does not affect red blood cells unless given intravenously. If RCA is injected into the blood, it will cause the red blood cells to agglutinate and burst by hemolysis.
Perhaps just one milligram of ricin can kill an adult.
The symptoms of human poisoning begin within a few hours of ingestion.
The symptoms are:
abdominal pain
vomiting
diarrhea, sometimes bloody.
Within several days there is:
severe dehydration,
a decrease in urine,
and a decrease in blood pressure.
If death has not occurred in 3-5 days, the victim usually recovers. It is advisable to keep children away from the castor bean plant or necklaces made with its seeds. In fact donít even have them in or around a house with small children. If they ingest the leaves or swallow the seeds, they may get poisoned. The highly toxic seeds beaded into necklaces, cause skin irritation at the contact point.
If the seed is swallowed without chewing, and there is no damage to the seed coat, it will most likely pass harmlessly through the digestive tract. However, if it is chewed or broken and then swallowed, the ricin toxin will be absorbed by the intestines.
It is said that just one seed can kill a child. Children are more sensitive than adults to fluid loss due to vomiting and diarrhea, and can quickly become severely dehydrated and die.
Castor bean plants in a garden should not be allowed to flower and seed.

Thevetia peruviana (pers). K Shum1.2

FamilyApocynaceae1.3 Common name(s)Be still TreeDigoxinLucky NutNerium oleanderYellow Oleander2.

SUMMARY2.1 Main risks and target organsThe main toxic effects of glycosides found in Thevetiaperuviana are related to its digitalis-like action on theheart and severe gastrointestinal irritation.

2.2 Summary of clinical effectsThe common presenting symptoms are: numbness, burning of themouth, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Otherfeatures seen are: drowsiness, coma, occasional convulsions,and cardiac arrhythmias. Death is due to ventricularfibrillation.

2.3 DiagnosisDiagnosis depends on the patient's history and the clinicalpresentation. Cardiac glycosides can be investigated in the blood bycompetitive immunoassay. The serum potassium concentrationshould be monitored. Electrocardiography, frequent serumelectrolytes (especially potassium concentration), and renalfunction tests are essential investigations. Remnants ofseeds, vomitus or gastric aspirate should be collected foridentification purposes.

2.4 First-aid measures and management principlesAdmit the patient to a hospital. Treatment should aim at a)gut contamination by emesis or lavage if the ingestion isrecent; b) correction of electrolyte imbalance; c) correctionof severe bradycardia with atropine or electrical pacing andcorrection of ventricular dysrrhythmias; and d)administration of digoxin Fab antibodies if available.

2.5 Poisonous partsAll parts of the plant, particularly the seeds are poisonousowing to the presence of cardiac glycosides or cardiac toxinswhich act directly on the heart. Ingestion of these plantparts could lead to death. The whole plant exudes in a milkyjuice which is very poisonous.

2.6 Main toxinsThevetin A, Thevetin B and Peruvoside.

3. CHARACTERISTICS3.1 Description of the plant

3.1.1 Special identification featuresIt is a small ornamental tree which grows to about 10 to15 feet high. The leaves are spirally arranged, linearand about 13 to 15 cm in length. Flowers are brightyellow and funnel-shaped with 5 petals spirally twisted. The fruits are somewhat globular, slightlyfleshy and have a diameter of 4 to 5 cm. The fruits,which are green in colour, become black on ripening.Each fruit contains a nut which is longitudinally andtransversely divided. All parts of the plant containthe milky juice.

3.1.2 HabitatGrown as an ornamental tree in gardens.

3.1.3 DistributionThis plant is native of Central & South America, but nowfrequently grown throughout the tropical and sub-tropical regions.

3.2 Poisonous parts of the plantAll parts of the plant are poisonous, especially the kernelsof the fruit. The absorption of the equivalent of two Thevetia peruvianaleaves may be sufficient to kill a 12.5 kg child (Ellenhornand Barceloux, 1988).

CACTAS

Family
Cactaceae
Plant Description
Succulent, flattened stems or shrublike with cylindric stems; leaves lacking or modified into large spines; sharp-pointed glochids in clusters at base of spines; flowers variously colored, with many petals; fruit fleshy or dry.
Origin
Americas.
Distribution
Coastal Plain, Piedmont.
Where Found
Houseplant or interiorscape; Landscape as cultivated ornamental plants, native and naturalized, weedy in disturbed areas, lawns in coastal areas.
Mode
Ingestion; splinter-like small infection due to glochids lodged in the skin, eye irritation.
Poisonous Part
Glochids (minute bristle-like, barbed hairs in clusters) on the stems (green, thickened stems resemble leaves).
Symptoms
Painful skin and eye irritation following contact; internal effects in diabetics from ingestion.
Edibility
EDIBLE PARTS: Ripe fruit edible raw or in jelly. Leaf pads, fruit and seeds. HARVEST TIME: Only collect plants from areas you know have NOT been treated with pesticides. Use tender young leaf pads gathered during the spring. SAFE HANDLING PROCEDURES: Wash leaf pads, fruit and seeds thoroughly with warm water. Do not use dish detergent or any type of sanitizer. These products can leave a residue. Peel and cut pulp into chunks or strips and cook like string beans. Batter, roast or fry pads. The interior of the pad similar to okra and can be used to thicken soups. Cut pads into pieces and use raw in salads. Remove bristles before use with a flame or by wiping off with a glove or damp cloth. Or, bake the pads in a medium-temperature oven for one-half hour, then peel the skin with the bristles attached. If a knife is used to cut out bristles, wipe after each cut, because mucilage produced by the pads will stick to blade. Roast the pads in their skin on a fire for about 15-20 minutes per side. Peel and eat the pulp after cooking. Peel or cut in half and scoop out pulp before use. Chill and eat raw or pickle after removing seeds. Dried seeds can be crushed or ground into flour and used in soup as a thickener. SOURCE: Larson, Ken. 1995. God's Free Harvest, Rhema Publishing, Inc., Suwanee, GA. 231 pp.
Toxic Principle
Unknown; possibly mechanical effect of glochids.
Severity
CAUSES ONLY LOW TOXICITY IF EATEN. SKIN IRRITATION SEVERE!

MANIOC

Family
Euphorbiaceae
Plant Description
A bushy herb or shrub with elongated tubers; leaves alternate, simple, deeply lobed; flowers inconspicuous; fruit a 6-angled globose capsule.
Origin
Brazil.
Where Found
Plant not grown in North Carolina, imported, purchased in grocery stores, widely cultivated in the tropics for the tuberous roots.
Mode
Ingestion.
Poisonous Part
Raw roots or peelings of the tubers (thickened roots).
Symptoms
Weak and irregular breathing, weakness, excitement, depression, staggering, pupil dilation, spasms, convulsions, coma of short duration.
Edibility
EDIBLE PARTS: Tubers boiled and eaten or made into tapioca.
Toxic Principle
Cyanogenic glycosides linamarin and lotaustralin.
Severity
HIGHLY TOXIC, MAY BE FATAL IF EATEN!

OLENDER (KANERU)

Family
Apocynaceae
Plant Description
Evergreen shrub or small tree with thick, gummy, clear sap; leaves opposite or whorled, simple, leathery, with smooth margins and conspicuous pinnate veins; flowers clustered at tip of twigs, 5-parted, funnel-shaped, white, pink, red, or yellow.
Origin
Eurasia.
Where Found
Landscape cultivated as ornamental woody shrub and occasionally escaped.
Mode
Ingestion.
Poisonous Part
All parts, green or dry.
Symptoms
Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, slowed pulse, irregular heartbeat, dilation of pupils, bloody diarrhea, drowsiness; may be fatal.
Toxic Principle
Cardiac glycosides: nerioside and oleandroside; saponins, and unknowns.
Severity
HIGHLY TOXIC, MAY BE FATAL IF EATEN!

GLORRY LILLI (NIYAGALA)

Nigala
Family
Liliaceae
Plant Description
Slender, herbaceous vine from a thick tuberous rootstock; leaves alternate or appearing opposite, simple, strap-like with a tendril-like tip; flowers on long stalks, 6-parted, yellow or red with wavy margins.
Origin
Africa and Asia.
Where Found
Houseplant or interiorscape; landscape in containers as herbaceous, tender vine.
Mode
Ingestion
Poisonous Part
All parts, especially tubers (thickened roots) which resemble yams.
Symptoms
Numbness of lips, tongue, and throat, thirst, fever, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, difficult breathing, convulsions.
Toxic Principle
Alkaloids (colchicine and others) and resins.
Severity
HIGHLY TOXIC, MAY BE FATAL IF EATEN!

DATURA (ATTANA)

Family
Solanaceae
Plant Description
Shrub or small tree; leaves simple, alternate; flowers single, pendent, trumpet-like or funnel-shaped to 1 ft long, 5-lobed at tip, white or yellow.
Origin
South America.
Where Found
Houseplant or interiorscape; landscape as cultivated woody or herbaceous shrub where hardy.
Mode
Ingestion, inhalation of flowers.
Poisonous Part
Flowers, leaves, seeds.
Symptoms
Hallucinations, dry mouth, muscle weakness, increased blood pressure and pulse, fever, dilated pupils, paralysis.
Toxic Principle
Atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine.
Severity
TOXIC ONLY IF LARGE QUANTITIES EATEN.

TOBACCO

TOBACCO
Nicotiana spp.
(nightshade family)
TOXICITY RATING: Low to moderate, depending on the situation.
ANIMALS AFFECTED: All animals may be affected, but pets in contact with tobacco products are at risk as are pigs allowed to forage on harvested tobacco fields.
DANGEROUS PARTS OF PLANT: Leaves.
CLASS OF SIGNS: Gastrointestinal irritation, trembling, staggering, weakness, breathing problems, heart problems, collapse, birth defects, death.
PLANT DESCRIPTION: These tall annual plants grow from fibrous roots and produce large, hairy leaves and terminal clusters of tubular, 2 inches long, white, red, lavender, or yellow flowers on short stalks. Many-seeded capsules may appear in late summer. The tobacco species with colorful flowers (fig. 17) are grown as garden ornamentals. Those with yellow-green flowers and the largest leaves are an economic crop in the southern counties of the state.
SIGNS: The toxin in tobacco is nicotine, an alkaloid with an irritating effect on the stomach and intestines and also the nervous system. This toxin is related to the toxins in poison hemlock and lupine. Concerning nicotine concentrations, an average cigarette can contain between 20 and 30 mg, and 120 mg for a cigar. One report indicates that for a human unaccustomed to tobacco, 4 mg can cause clinical signs, and 60 mg at one time can cause death.
Pets can easily be poisoned by tobacco products in the home, either accidentally or maliciously. The primary route of poisoning is by ingestion (eating tobacco products or drinking tobacco-tainted water), but inhalation of smoke is also possible. Clinical signs nearly always are present, but only rarely is a lethal dose ingested. The initial signs of poisoning can develop within 10 to 15 minutes or may not manifest for several hours. At first, the irritating effect that tobacco has on the stomach and intestines will cause salivating, vomiting (if capable), and diarrhea. Shortly after the digestive signs develop, neurologic signs appear. Initially, nicotine stimulates the nervous system, with depression of the nervous system occurring at a later time. Early signs include nervousness, shaking, trembling, a stiff and uncoordinated gait, weakness and collapse. Cardiac abnormalities may be noted as well as breathing difficulties, to the point of respiratory paralysis (the cause of death in lethal cases). Tobacco is also teratogenic, causing birth defects if the mother animal was pregnant when the toxicosis occurred.
In large animals, pigs are the most likely to suffer tobacco poisoning, since they are allowed to forage on harvested tobacco fields. In addition to the gastric and neurologic signs, birth defects have been well documented when pregnant sows ingest tobacco. The most common defects are limb deformities in the piglets.
FIRST AID: For pigs and other large animals, it is unlikely that a lethal dose would be consumed. Keep the animal quiet and undisturbed and clinical signs should resolve within a few hours, although birth defects may still occur. For more severely affected large animals or in cases where it is known that a large quantity was ingested, call a veterinarian as soon as possible, since emergency evacuation of the gastrointestinal tract may be necessary. For pets, contact a veterinarian if any ingestion has occurred. With their smaller size, pets will show clinical signs more rapidly and more severely than large animals. In addition, the effects of nicotine can come on rapidly.
SAFETY IN PREPARED FEEDS: Tobacco remains toxic when dried, therefore processed feeds containing tobacco are not safe for consumption.

CANABIS (KANSA)

Cannabis sativa

Family
Cannabaceae
Plant Description
A large, coarse annual 6-12 ft tall; leaves opposite below and alternate toward top, long-stalked, palmately divided into 3-7 toothed leaflets; flowers small and green, crowded on axillary clusters.
Origin
Asia.
Where Found
Houseplant (illegal to grow); landscape (illegal to cultivate) in gardens.
Mode
Ingestion and inhalation.
Poisonous Part
All parts, but greatest toxicity in flower stalks.
Symptoms
Exhilaration, hallucinations, delusions, blurred vision, poor coordination, stupor, and coma.
Toxic Principle
Resins.
Severity
TOXIC ONLY IF LARGE QUANTITIES EATEN.

AROIDS

THE AROID FAMILY
Aglaonema: CHINESE EVERGREEN
Anthurium: ANTHURIUM
Arisaema: JACK-IN-THE-PULPIT, GREEN DRAGON
Caladium: ELEPHANT EARS
Colocasia: TARO
Dieffenbachia: DUMBCANE
Monstera: CUT-LEAF PHILODENDRON, CERIMAN, MEXICAN BREADFRUIT
Philodendron: PHILODENDRON
Scindapsus: DEVIL'S-IVY, POTHOS
Symplocarpus foetidus: SKUNKCABBAGE
Syngonium: TRI-LEAF WONDER, ARROWHEAD VINE, NEPTHYTIS
TOXICITY RATING: Moderate. Pets may sample these commonly available plants with a nibble or two, but rarely ingest any quantity sufficient to cause serious problems or death. Risk increases with hungry or bored animals housed in close proximity to these plants.
ANIMALS AFFECTED: Any animal that chews or ingests the leaves will be affected. In Indiana, nearly all of these plants would be grown as houseplants, therefore pets (including birds and reptiles) are primarily at risk.
DANGEROUS PARTS OF PLANT: Roots, leaves, stems.
CLASS OF SIGNS: Mouth and throat irritation, salivating, possibly stomach irritation, diarrhea (rarely).
PLANT DESCRIPTION: All 2,000 species of this family of plants should be treated as potentially toxic. A few are eaten, such as poi and taro (Colocasia esculenta) in Hawaii, but only after the poison is eliminated by cooking. Seven species of aroids occur naturally in Indiana, mostly in wet areas. Jack-in-the-pulpit and skunkcabbage are the most common and best known of these. Dumbcane (fig. 3), pothos, and philodendron are potted plants of offices, restaurant lobbies, and homes.
Aroids are perennials, many arising from corms or rhizomes. Some may be vines. The large net-veined leaves, which may have white or colored spots, are borne on leaf stalks that sheathe the stem. Most of these plants have simple leaves, but jack-in-the-pulpit has three-parted foliage (fig. 19). The aroid flower is a fleshy green, white, or yellow spike (spadix) borne inside a wraparound hood or bract (spathe). The fruits are brightly colored berries, borne in tight clusters, not often produced by the house plant species.
SIGNS: The plant cells contain needle-like crystal of insoluble calcium oxalate which penetrate the skin and mouth causing discomfort. In addition, the plants contain proteolytic enzymes which release histamine and kinins, causing swelling and an itching or burning sensation. Affected animals will shake their head, paw or rub the face and mouth, may salivate or foam at the mouth, may seek water, or may have visible swelling. Very severely affected animals may experience oral swelling to the point that swallowing and breathing become impaired. Typically, animals are not severely affected, since a few bites of the plants are often a sufficient deterrent to further consumption. Occasional reports of these plants causing kidney failure in cats have not been well-verified. Effects in cats appear to be limited to the signs described above. Some of these plants have been used with humans to prevent individuals from talking by causing excessive tongue swelling, hence the name "dumbcane".
FIRST AID: For minor irritation, provide supportive care and prevent further exposure. For more severe signs, if the animal does not improve within a few minutes, or if swallowing or breathing is impaired, consult a veterinarian immediately.
SAFETY IN PREPARED FEEDS: These plants are not likely to be incorporated into hay or other feeds, but if so, the toxins are likely to remain.
PREVENTION: Animals should not be allowed to consume these plants. Offer small amounts of fresh grass or other safe plant material (depending on the species), or remove the plant from the pet's environment. Some pets do not "learn their lesson" and may return to chew on these plants. In these situations, it is best to remove the plant from the pet's environment.

DALUK

Euphorbia lactea or Candelabra plant, a native of India, is a cactus-like plant with 3- or 4-angled branches that are deeply scalloped with black spines. It is used medicinally in India as a hot jam to treat rheumatism. All plant parts are considered poisonous, especially the white, milky sap. It is irritating to the skin, eyes and mouth.
Blooming Time: It is not known to flower in captivity.
Culture: Euphorbia lactea need full sun to partial shade with warm temperatures. We use a soil mix consisting of equal part of loam and sand. The plant should be allowed to dry thoroughly between waterings. In the winter months, water should be restricted to once over the winter. The most common failure in growing this plant is over-watering, especially during the winter months.
Propagation: Euphorbia lactea are propagated by cuttings. Cuttings should be allowed to dry for a period of 3-4 weeks before potting.

ALLIGATOR WEED (KIBUL WNNA )

Alligator weed is a perennial plant native to South America and often forms very dense stands or mats that make shoreline access difficult. Aquatic stems are hollow and can be single or branched. Leaves are opposite, long, elliptical or lance-shaped up to 3/4 inch wide and 5 inches long with a prominent midrib. Often roots develop at leaf nodes. Soft, whitish hairs are found in the leaf axis. Single flowers are small (about 1/2 inch in diameter) white, fragrant clusters of 6 to 10 florets, borne on long branches (to 3 inches). The flowers resemble those of white clover. A single seed develops within the fruit.
Submerged portions of all aquatic plants provide habitats for many micro and macro invertebrates. These invertebrates in turn are used as food by fish and other wildlife species (e.g. amphibians, reptiles, ducks, etc.). After aquatic plants die, their decomposition by bacteria and fungi provides food (called "detritus") for many aquatic invertebrates. Alligator weed has no known direct food value to wildlife and since it is a non-native should not be spread

POPPY

Family
Papaveraceae
Plant Description
Erect annual with milky juice; leaves alternate, simple, clasping, toothed; flowers terminal, with 5-more showy petals (white, pink, red, or purple); fruit a capsule with an expanded disc at the top and over small holes through which the minute seeds are dispersed.
Origin
Europe.
Distribution
Illegally planted, sometimes persisting in old gardens.
Where Found
In landscape occasionally in flower garden, it is illegal to cultivate opium poppy. The garden poppies are a different species and may or may not contain opium alkaloids.
Mode
Ingestion.
Poisonous Part
Dried milky sap from all parts, but mainly fruits.
Symptoms
Stupor, coma, shallow and slow breathing, respiratory and circulatory depression.
Edibility
EDIBLE PARTS: Poppy seeds used as topping of breads are safe.
Toxic Principle
Alkaloids, morphine and others.
Severity
HIGHLY TOXIC, MAY BE FATAL IF EATEN!

WILD MUSHROOMS

Wild mushrooms are common in the Midwest. The word mushroom is used to describe the fruiting body of various types of fungi. They cannot synthesis their own energy like plants but depend on decaying organic matter for their energy. That's why they're commonly found around decaying vegetable matter, such as manure or rotting roots and stumps. The growth of mushrooms is favored by cool, moist weather. Thus, they are most abundant in spring and fall. Some mushrooms appear in yards after rainfalls. Often, while playing on the lawn young children will taste them. While in many cases the child does not get ill, there is the potential for serious, possibly life-threatening poisoning since many dangerous mushroom species exist in this area.
A major problem is the difficulty in identifying mushroom species. This is impossible for poison center staff who must manage these situations over the phone. In addition, very few individuals (mycologists) who are properly trained to identify wild mushrooms exist. Unfortunately, this requires that any child who eats a wild mushroom be treated. In addition to children, dogs often eat wild mushrooms, leading to serious poisoning. Most often treatment can be performed in the home under the supervision of trained poison center staff. If the poison center is not immediately contacted, resulting in a significant delay, or if a substantial number of mushrooms are eaten or any symptoms occur, these individuals must be referred to a hospital emergency department.
Besides children who eat unknown wild mushrooms, adults are also occasional victims of poisonous mushrooms. In these cases, the victim, who was attempting to identify edible species, has mistakenly picked poisonous mushrooms. These cases are much more likely to be serious as the victim may eat these poisonous mushrooms in large quantity and may not seek medical attention until severe illness has occurred.