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Top 19 Most Common Toxic Plants in Dominica

Dominica's lush, humid climate and rich volcanic soil create an ideal environment for a wide variety of flora, including toxic plants. With heavy rainfall and diverse habitats, the island supports the growth of plants that can pose risks to local biodiversity, ecosystems, and human health. Among these, Hyssop-leaf sandmat, Bellyache bush, and Prostrate sandmat are noteworthy, reflecting the broader concern for toxic plant prevalence in this ecologically vibrant region.

Icon common plants
Most Common Toxic Plants
Hyssop-leaf sandmat
1. Hyssop-leaf sandmat
Hyssop-leaf sandmat (Euphorbia hyssopifolia) is a sandmat that’s indigenous to the southwestern part of the United States. A sandmat is a plant in the genus of Euphorbia that thrives best in deserts. Hyssop-leaf sandmat has a milk-white sap in its stem—just like the milkweed. It’s also known as hyssop spurge, eyebane, wart weed, and chicken weed.
Toxic to:
Human
Bellyache bush
2. Bellyache bush
Jatropha gossypiifolia, commonly known as bellyache bush, black physicnut or cotton-leaf physicnut, is a species of flowering plant in the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. The species is native to Mexico, South America, Gujarat State (India) and the Caribbean islands. It is a declared noxious weed in Puerto Rico and is naturalised in northern Australia, including Queensland where it is listed as a Class 2 declared pest plant. It grows to 2.5 to 4 m high. The three lobed leaves are purple and sticky when young and become bright green with age. The small red flowers with yellow centres appear in clusters. These are followed by cherry-sized seed pods that are poisonous. Powdery mildew fungal disease was reported. There are many common names for Jatropha gossypiifolia including: bellyache-bush, black physicnut, and cotton-leaf physicnut in English; pinon negro, pinon colorado, and tua-tua in Spanish; medicinier noir and medicinier rouge in French; mamoninha and peao-roxo in Brazil; jarak merah and sibidigua in India.
Toxic to:
Human
Asthma-plant
3. 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
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Prostrate sandmat
4. 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
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
Matted Sandmat
6. Matted Sandmat
Matted Sandmat is an annual weed that grows flat along the ground into a matted form. It has a long tap root and hardy seeds, which make it difficult to eradicate. This plant’s sap can irritate the skin and is toxic.
Toxic to:
Human
Mexican prickly poppy
7. 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
Turkey berry
8. 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
Castor bean
9. 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
Palay rubbervine
10. 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
Mexican fireplant
11. 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
Sago palm
12. 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
Rosary Pea
13. Rosary Pea
Rosary Pea is among the world's top 10 most poisonous plants. Ingesting a single seed of this plant can be fatal. However, these seeds are prized for making both jewelry and musical instruments.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Crown Flower
14. 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
Bird of paradise
15. 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
16. 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
Groundsel bush
17. Groundsel bush
Natives to Nova Scotia and the eastern United States, the Baccharis halimifolia is the northernmost occurring of the baccharises. When grown in places other than its origin, it became invasive, such as in Australia and Spain. The seeds are toxic for human consumption.
Toxic to:
Human
Potato
18. Potato
True to this plant's reputation, consumption of potato 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
Angel's trumpet
19. Angel's trumpet
The flowers of angel's trumpet (Brugmansia arborea) are highly aromatic. This species grows best in moist, well-drained soil.
Toxic to:
Human
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More Plants in Dominica

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Most Common Flowers

Dominica's tropical climate and fertile soil create the perfect conditions for a diverse array of native flowers to bloom. Three noteworthy blossoms in this enchanting location include , , and . Each of these flowers showcases the visual beauty, symbolic significance, and ecological importance that make them characteristic of the region. Reliable sources validate the information presented, ensuring the accuracy and trustworthiness of this summary.

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Most Common Fruits

Dominica's fertile volcanic soil and humid tropical climate are ideal for cultivating a variety of local fruit plants. Among the island's bountiful offerings, , , and stand out for their cultural significance. These fruit plants not only contribute to the nation's unique culinary identity but also support the livelihoods of local farmers, reflecting the island's rich agricultural heritage.

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Most Common Trees

Dominica's tropical climate and fertile soil provide ideal conditions for the growth of a variety of indigenous trees. Among the most emblematic are , , and . These trees hold great significance in the region, both culturally and ecologically. They serve as important habitats for wildlife, contribute to the island's unique biodiversity, and have traditional uses in local customs, medicine, and construction. Dominica takes pride in preserving and protecting these valuable trees, ensuring their continued presence for future generations.

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Most Common Weeds

Dominica's tropical climate, with ample rainfall and fertile soils, creates an ideal breeding ground for prolific garden weeds. Notable among these are , , and . Their prevalence poses challenges for gardeners and landscapers, necessitating regular maintenance to prevent overrun gardens and disturbed ecosystems. The battle against these invasive greens is ongoing due to the island's conducive growing conditions.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Nestled in the Lesser Antilles, Dominica's humid tropical climate and rugged volcanic landscape set the stage for some of the Caribbean's most majestic arboreal giants. The island's fertile soil and ample rainfall allow species like , , and to stretch skyward, often emerging as keystone structures looming over the rainforest canopy. Towering above the diverse flora, these colossal trees not only punctuate the landscape but also serve as vital pillars for the ecosystem and beacons of the island's botanical heritage.

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Most Common Plants

In Dominica, you can find Graceful spurge, Seagrape, Manchineel, Hyssop-leaf sandmat, Rough cocklebur, and more! There are 48 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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