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Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Cuba

Cuba's tropical climate, characterized by ample rainfall, high humidity, and warm temperatures, fosters a rich biodiversity that includes a variety of toxic plants. These conditions are conducive to the prevalence of species like Turkey berry, Sago palm, and Mexican prickly poppy, which thrive in such environments. While the lush vegetation of the island enhances its allure, it also raises concerns due to the presence of plants with harmful properties.

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Most Common Toxic Plants
Turkey berry
1. Turkey berry
True to this plant's reputation, consumption of turkey berry can be extremely toxic to dogs, and warrants immediate veterinary attention. All parts of these plants contain several toxic substances which can cause loss of appetite, excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, dilated pupils, confusion, behavioral changes, and weakness. In more severe cases, difficulty breathing, a lowered heart rate, coma, or even death may occur, so treat it as a medical emergency if your pet has come into contact with this plant.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Sago palm
2. Sago palm
Many species within the Cycas revoluta genus are highly toxic to dogs - if you suspect your dog has ingested any part of a sago palm plant, you should contact a vet immediately. The Sago palm is a very common ornamental and is the most common culprit. These plants contain high concentrations of the cycasin toxin, which is found throughout their structures but is most concentrated in their seeds. Ingesting even a small amount of cycasin can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Larger amounts can cause damage to the intestines and liver, coma, or death.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Castor bean
3. Castor bean
The castor bean is important for its oil which is used as a lubricant, biodiesel ingredient, and rodent repellent, among other applications. The plants are now commercially planted globally, with India producing nearly 75% of the world's castor oil. Castor beans cannot be eaten because they contain a potent poison that's released if the seed is broken.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
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Mexican prickly poppy
4. Mexican prickly poppy
Argemone mexicana has been naturalized in many parts of the world. It is extremely tolerant of drought and poor soil, but is poisonous to grazing animals. Its seed pods secrete a pale yellow latex when cut open. In India, the mexican prickly poppy is used in the Holika Dahan festival, in which adults and children worship by offering flowers.
Toxic to:
Human
Golden dewdrops
5. Golden dewdrops
Golden dewdrops (Duranta erecta) is an ornamental sprawling shrub commonly found in subtropical and tropical gardens all over the world. Its gentle purple blossoms are often visited by butterflies and hummingbirds. Golden dewdrops is considered a weed in Australia, South Africa and certain parts of East Asia.
Toxic to:
Human
Mexican fireplant
6. Mexican fireplant
Mexican fireplant is native to tropical America, but it has been naturalized in other tropical and subtropical regions in the world. *Euphorbia heterophylla* is a poisonous plant to humans and livestock. It contains a toxic milky sap which can cause strong skin irritation.
Toxic to:
Human
Crown Flower
7. Crown Flower
The crown Flower has beautiful flowers that are used to make leis and were a favorite of the last queen of Hawaii. The outer petals of this flower curl back, and reveal what looks like a crown inside. The sap of this plant may cause skin irritation and can be considered toxic.
Toxic to:
Human
Palay rubbervine
8. Palay rubbervine
Palay rubbervine (Cryptostegia grandiflora) is a plant species that can grow to be 2 m tall when the plant is a shrub. When palay rubbervine is supported by other vegetation as a vine, it can reach up to 30 m in length. This species is native to Madagascar.
Toxic to:
Human
Pokeweed
9. Pokeweed
Although its berries look juicy and tempting, the fruits and the root of pokeweed are toxic and should not be eaten. Pokeweed is considered a pest species by farmers but is nevertheless often grown as an ornamental plant. Its berries can be made into pokeberry ink as well.
Toxic to:
Human
Common columbine
10. Common columbine
All parts of common columbine, including the stem, leaves, flowers, and seeds, are toxic when they are ingested raw. Contact with the plant's sap may also lead to dermatitis (skin irritation and inflammation). The symptoms from common columbine poisoning are likely to cause only mild to moderate effects, but the symptoms are not well-known, since there are few documented cases of it. Adverse effects are most likely to occur from accidental ingestion.
Toxic to:
Human
Bird of paradise
11. Bird of paradise
Bird of paradise is generally considered non-toxic but can be poisonous when ingested in large quantities. Cases of poisoning are typically mild to moderate with symptoms including abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Cases of poisoning may be more serious in children. The fruit and seeds are considered to be the most toxic parts of the plant. The frequent use of this plant as a houseplant could be a factor in poisoning frequency. This plant can be mistaken for another more toxic species, Poinciana gilliesii, as they share the same common name, bird of paradise.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Star of Bethlehem
12. Star of Bethlehem
Star of Bethlehem (Hippobroma longiflora) is a perennial, herbaceous plant whose blossoms look similar to jasmine flowers but are not fragrant. Produces a milky white sap that is highly toxic and irritating to the skin. Contact with the eyes can cause blindness. Avoid handling this plant with bare hands.
Toxic to:
Human
Brazilian peppertree
13. Brazilian peppertree
Brazilian peppertree (Schinus terebinthifolia) is a flowering plant native to South America that is related to the cashew. Brazilian peppertree is widely cultivated as a houseplant in regions without frost. The plant can cause skin irritation in people with sensitive skin.
Toxic to:
Human
Caribbean copper plant
14. Caribbean copper plant
Euphorbia cotinifolia, also known as the caribbean copper plant, is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 3 to 6 m tall. The sap of this plant is poisonous, so protective equipment such as gloves and long sleeves should be worn when pruning. The Latin name 'cotinifolia' is derived from the Latin word 'cotinus,' which means 'smoketree' and 'folia,' which means 'leaf.' It is also commonly referred to as the Tropical Smokebush.
Toxic to:
Human
Asthma-plant
15. Asthma-plant
Asthma-plant (Euphorbia hirta) is a ground-hugging spurge weed whose branches can grow to 61 cm long. It blooms from summer through early fall, dying off after the first frost. A milky sap will seep from broken stems or leaves. It can be a nuisance weed that reproduces rapidly.
Toxic to:
Human
Flame lily
16. Flame lily
Flame lily (Gloriosa superba) is a climbing flowering plant also known as the tiger claw, fire lily, and creeping lily. Flame lily attracts sunbirds and butterflies. This plant is extremely toxic when ingested.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Dutchman's pipe
17. Dutchman's pipe
Dutchman's pipe is a hardy, deciduous vine that climbs trellises or walls and can provide privacy or shade with its dense, heart-shaped leaves. This vine grows small pipe-shaped flowers that give it its name. Dutchman's pipe attracts many swallowtail butterflies with its pretty little blooms.
Toxic to:
Human
Pink rain lily
18. Pink rain lily
Pink rain lily (Habranthus robustus) is a plant species native to Brazil. Pink rain lily blooms four to six times in a single summer. This species has blossoms that often bloom right after a rainstorm. Pink rain lily grows equally well in shaded areas and areas with plenty of sun.
Toxic to:
Human
Autumn crocus
19. Autumn crocus
Autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale) is a flowering plant native to the coast of the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. Its flower stalks grow up after a period of time after its leaves die out, so you can see its flowers or leaves but never both. Consumption of autumn crocus is toxic and is particularly poisonous to cats. Autumn crocus is not the source of saffron. Saffron is produced by another species in the crocus family.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Prostrate sandmat
20. Prostrate sandmat
Prostrate sandmat (Euphorbia prostrata) is a plant species native to tropical regions of North and South America and the central United States. Prostrate sandmat has spread all over the globe and is considered an invasive species. This resilient plant often sprouts up through cracks in asphalt on roadsides.
Toxic to:
Human
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More Plants in Cuba

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Most Common Flowers

Cuba's tropical climate and fertile soil provide ideal conditions for the growth of native flowers. Among the most characteristic blossoms are , , and . These flowers showcase the visual beauty of Cuba's natural environment and hold symbolic and ecological importance. Detailed information on each flower is omitted in this summary. Trustworthy sources confirm the presence and significance of these local blooms.

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Most Common Fruits

Cuba's tropical climate, enriched with well-drained fertile soils and a favorable long growing season, cultivates a variety of local fruit plants. Among the prominent ones, , , and stand out not only for their adaptability to the local climatic conditions but also for their cultural significance, often ingrained in the Cuban heritage. These fruits contribute not just to the country's diet but also to its economy and social traditions.

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Most Common Trees

Cuba's climatic conditions, characterized by tropical and subtropical regions, along with its fertile soil, provide a favorable environment for the growth of various indigenous trees. Among the most emblematic trees in this region are , , and . These trees hold significant cultural and ecological value within Cuba, serving as important sources of timber, medicinal properties, and habitats for diverse species. Their presence in the Cuban landscape highlights the rich biodiversity and environmental importance of the country.

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Most Common Weeds

Cuba's warm, tropical climate and regular rainfall create the perfect conditions for a wide variety of garden weeds to flourish. Among the most common are , with its aggressive root system, , known for fast growth and resilience, and , which can easily dominate domestic gardens. These weeds are a constant challenge for gardeners and landscapers who strive to maintain plant diversity and cultivated spaces.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Cuba's warm, tropical climate combined with its varying landscapes - from rolling hills to expansive plains - nurtures a diversity of arboreal giants. Amidst this natural splendor, species like , , and stand as sentinels of the skies, their lofty canopies offering ecological havens and a living testament to the island's rich botanical heritage. These towering trees do not just dominate the skyline but also play a pivotal role in sustaining the local flora and fauna.

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Most Common Plants

In Cuba, you can find Flame of the woods, Seagrape, Common coconut palm, Garden croton, Chinese hibiscus, and more! There are 503 types of plants in total. Be sure to look out for these common plants when you’re walking on the streets, in parks, or public gardens.

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