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Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Ecuador

Ecuador's diverse ecosystems, ranging from the Amazon rainforest to the Andean highlands, create rich habitats conducive to the proliferation of various plant species, including toxic ones. The humid and warm climate, along with fertile soils, notably amplifies this prevalence. Consequently, toxic plants such as Golden dewdrops, Potato, and Castor bean are found within Ecuador's lush environments, posing potential risks to humans and animals.

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Most Common Toxic Plants
Golden dewdrops
1. 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
Potato
2. 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
Dieffenbachia
3. Dieffenbachia
If either ingested or touched, dieffenbachia can cause negative reactions. The symptoms range from moderate to severe and can be dangerous if airways are blocked. Due to the calcium oxalate contained in this plant, its leaves and sap have toxic properties. When ingested, they can induce symptoms such as lip and tongue swelling, drooling, speech loss, and difficulty breathing; when touched, they can cause a painful skin rash or eye irritation. Since these plants are often found indoors as decorative plants, be careful when keeping them around small children. Always wear gloves when handling this plant.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
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Castor bean
4. 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
Jerusalem cherry
5. Jerusalem cherry
True to this plant's reputation, consumption of jerusalem cherry 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
Star of Bethlehem
6. 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
Angel's trumpet
7. 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
Heart of jesus
8. Heart of jesus
The heart of jesus plant has a name that implies purity, but it is actually toxic. Like other Caladiums, its sap is extremely irritating when eaten or even just applied to the skin. A painful, itchy rash breaks out on contact. That rash is essentially what a person who ingests it will experience as well, except inside of their mouths and all the way down their digestive tracts. Besides a great deal of pain and irritation, this causes severe nausea, excessive salivation, vomiting and diarrhea, and also significant swelling in many cases. Keep this plant away from children.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Asthma-plant
9. 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
Mexican prickly poppy
10. 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
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
Spanish broom
12. Spanish broom
Spanish broom is a deciduous shrub native to the Mediterranean, West Asia, and North Africa. Fragrant yellow pea-like flowers cover the shoots in late spring and summer. It is cultivated for its ornamental value and is used for flavoring and essential oil extraction.
Toxic to:
Human
Cape gooseberry
13. Cape gooseberry
Cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana) is a perennial shrub species native to South America. This species has been cultivated by humans for a very long time, and can be traced to the Incan civilization. Cape gooseberry grows optimally in fertile, slightly acidic soil in full sun.
Calla lily
14. Calla lily
The calla lily is a well-known ornamental plant with several cultivars receiving the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. The most calla lily cultivars include 'Crowborough', 'Green Goddess', 'Pink Mist', and 'Red Desire'. They are popular as a cut flower or a rhizomatous herb in warm gardens.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Caribbean copper plant
15. 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
Striped barbados lily
16. Striped barbados lily
Striped barbados lily is perennial herbs with showy flowers but it contains toxic compounds, most notably alkaloids lycorine and tazetine, as well as calcium oxalate crystals.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Evergreen azalea
17. Evergreen azalea
Evergreen azalea are members of the Rhododendron genus, all of which contain varying levels of a toxin known as Grayanotoxin in all tissues. Physical contact can cause a rash in sensitive people, the pollen can irritate mucus membranes, and ingesting it can cause nausea, vomiting, arrhythmia, low blood pressure, and hallucinations in humans. Grayanotoxin is so strong that even the amounts contained in honey made from Rhododendron pollen can have negative effects.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Tasmanian blue gum
18. Tasmanian blue gum
Tasmanian blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus) is an evergreen tree that can grow to over 61 m tall. Blooms from fall to spring with yellowish white flowers. Flower buds have a warty cap that falls off to release the numerous brush-like stamens. Attracts bees hummingbirds and other pollinators. Grows in full sun and is a great specimen for parks and city courtyards.
Toxic to:
Pets
Persian cyclamen
19. Persian cyclamen
All parts of the persian cyclamen contain toxins that are extremely hazardous to dogs, with the highest concentration in their tubers. Use caution if your dog is in a yard where persian cyclamen is found, especially if they enjoy digging. Symptoms range from lethargy to coma, and immediate veterinary care is needed to pump the canine's stomach to void the body of the toxin.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Barbados lily
20. Barbados lily
Barbados lily (Hippeastrum puniceum) is a perennial that grows from a bulb and will grow from 30 to 46 cm tall. A prolific bloomer, it blooms most months of the year with large, 15 to 30 cm long, orange flowers. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers slightly acidic soil. Goes dormant after blooming.
Toxic to:
Pets
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More Plants in Ecuador

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Most Common Flowers

Ecuador, with its diverse climate and fertile soil, provides an ideal environment for a plethora of native flowers to flourish. Three prominent species that add to the region's stunning natural beauty are , , and . These blossoms are not only visually captivating but also hold great symbolic and ecological significance. Derived from reliable sources, this concise summary showcases Ecuador's rich floral heritage and its contribution to the country's biodiversity.

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Most Common Fruits

Ecuador's diverse ecosystems, ranging from coastal plains to Andean highlands, create unique microclimates ideal for a variety of local fruit plants. Fertile volcanic soils and a mild, equatorial climate ensure year-round agricultural productivity. Among the diverse flora, , , and stand out, not just for their adaptability to these conditions, but also for their integral roles in the nation's dietary culture and economy.

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Most Common Trees

Ecuador's favorable climatic and soil conditions provide an ideal environment for the growth of native trees. Among the most emblematic trees in this territory are , , and . These trees hold significant cultural and ecological value within the region. They contribute to the biodiversity of Ecuador's ecosystems and play a crucial role in supporting local wildlife. Their presence underscores the importance of preserving and protecting Ecuador's natural heritage.

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Most Common Weeds

Ecuador's diverse climate, ranging from tropical rainforests to Andean highlands, creates a fertile breeding ground for a variety of garden weeds. Three common invaders in this lush environment include , , and , which often outcompete native plants for resources. Gardeners in Ecuador frequently face challenges in managing these aggressive species, which can rapidly take over both cultivated and wild landscapes if left unchecked.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Ecuador, with its humid climate, dense rainforests, and varied elevations ranging from coastal planes to Andean highlands, nurtures some of the tallest trees in the world. Towering above the forest canopy, , , and stand as colossal green sentinels, integral to the nation's ecological framework and cultural heritage. These arboreal giants, deeply rooted in both fertile soil and historical reverence, accentuate the diverse and vibrant tapestry of Ecuador's natural environment.

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Most Common Plants

In Ecuador, you can find Garden croton, Sweet basil, Paperflower, Madagascar periwinkle, Papaya, and more! There are 5,508 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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