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Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Ethiopia

Ethiopia's diverse climates, from arid deserts to lush highlands, create a hospitable environment for a variety of flora, including Golden dewdrops, Castor bean, and Potato, which are among the toxic plants in the region. These plants thrive amid the rich biodiversity but also raise concerns for human and animal health due to their poisonous properties.

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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
Castor bean
2. 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
3. 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
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Potato
4. 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
Crown Flower
5. 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
Flame lily
6. 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
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
Barbados nut
8. Barbados nut
The barbados nut (Jatropha curcas) plant is cultivated throughout the world for ornamental uses because of its rapid growth. Since cattle will not consume the leaves, it works very well as a living fence around grazing areas. Oil is extracted from the nuts and used as a torch fuel and burns so well that the fires are not affected by strong winds!
Toxic to:
Human
Caribbean copper plant
9. 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
Durian
10. Durian
Durian (Durio zibethinus) is a tropical plant from Southeast Asia. It bears large, spiny, edible fruit which has become a major export crop of the region. The fruit is best known for its pungent smell, which provokes opposing reactions, ranging from near-addiction to revulsion. In some areas, it has even been banned from public transport and hotels.
Evergreen spindle
11. Evergreen spindle
All parts of the evergreen spindle are considered toxic if ingested in large quantities. Symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening including vomiting, weakness, diarrhea, chills, convulsions, and coma. Since these plants are commonly used as ornamental hedges, you should be mindful of any children who may encounter the plant, be attracted by its colorful leaves and flowers, and may be tempted to eat them.
Toxic to:
Human
Pokeweed
12. 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
White sapote
13. White sapote
The white sapote (*Casimiroa edulis*) is a fruit-bearing tree indigenous to the eastern part of Mexico and Central America. The fruit starts its life light green in color, and then it gradually turns yellow. A popular name for it is the Mexican apple. The genus name "white sapote" is in honor of Casimiro Gómez, who died in Mexico's war to break free from Spanish control.
Oleander
14. Oleander
Oleander is moderately to highly toxic to humans – instances of ingestion, or physical contact with this plant's sap, should be immediately addressed by medical professionals. While fatal cases of oleander poisoning are very rare, they are possible. All parts of this plant are toxic if ingested. Physical contact with the plant's sap, which is found throughout the plant and is more likely to be exposed if the plant is cut or damaged, may cause dermatological symptoms, including redness and itchiness of the skin. Symptoms following ingestion include low blood pressure, lethargy, an irregular heartbeat, blurred vision, confusion, diarrhea, vomiting, dizziness, fainting and, in extreme cases, death. Be mindful of curious children, as oleanders are an extremely common ornamental plant cultivated in gardens and parks around the world.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Asian virginsbower
15. Asian virginsbower
Clematis florida species are mildly to moderately toxic to dogs. All parts of most asian virginsbower plants contain a strong irritant that, if eaten, causes excessive salivation and loss of appetite. This may progress to vomiting or diarrhea. More severe symptoms are possible but very rare, as these plants tend to be extremely distasteful to dogs, and so it's not often eaten in large quantities. Seek veterinary attention if your dog is experiencing the stronger symptoms.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Poison ivy
16. Poison ivy
In pop culture, poison ivy is a symbol of an obnoxious weed because, despite its unthreatening looks, it gives a highly unpleasant contact rash to the unfortunate person who touches it. Still, it is commonly eaten by many animals, and the seeds are a favorite with birds. The leaves turn bright red in fall. Its sister species, Western poison ivy (Toxicodendron rydbergii), is not considered to be invasive in the United States, but is noxious in Australia and New Zealand.
Toxic to:
Human
Apple-of-peru
17. Apple-of-peru
Apple-of-peru (Nicandra physalodes) is a flowering plant that’s a member of the nightshade family. Another name for it is shoo-fly plant. It was called this because years ago, juices from the leaves and roots were mixed with milk in a dish. This attracted flies who drank the blend. Since it was poisonous, the flies died. This species is native to South America.
Calla lily
18. 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
Tobacco
19. Tobacco
As a plant with beautiful flowers, tobacco should be planted with caution due to its high toxicity to both humans and animals through ingestion.
Toxic to:
Human
Begonia 'Tiger Paws'
20. Begonia 'Tiger Paws'
Begonia 'Tiger Paws' has a unique leaf pattern with lime green highlights on a dark green background that look like a tiger's paw prints. This award-winning hybrid spreads via rhizome roots and is often grown as a groundcover. Alternatively, it dangles nicely from hanging baskets which makes it easy to be moved indoors in cold weather.
Toxic to:
Pets
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More Plants in Ethiopia

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Most Common Flowers

Ethiopia's diverse climate and fertile soil provide an ideal environment for a variety of native flowers. Three noteworthy blossoms in the region include , , and . These indigenous flowers, with their striking beauty and ecological significance, contribute to Ethiopia's rich floral landscape. Although specific details about each flower are not provided, their presence highlights the country's natural beauty and the importance of preserving its floral heritage.

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Most Common Fruits

Ethiopia’s diverse climate, ranging from cool highland zones to warm tropical areas, coupled with its fertile soil, sets a favorable stage for a variety of local fruit plants. Among these, , , and contribute significantly to the country's cuisine and culture, reflecting a bond between the land and its people. These plants stand as cornerstones of Ethiopia's biodiversity, and their cultivation supports both local traditions and the economy.

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Most Common Trees

Ethiopia, with its diverse climatic and soil conditions, provides a favorable environment for the growth of native trees. Among the emblematic trees of this territory are , , and . These trees hold great cultural and ecological significance in Ethiopia. They play a vital role in supporting the local ecosystem, providing shade, food, and shelter for various species. Additionally, they hold cultural importance, often being used in traditional ceremonies and symbolizing the country's rich heritage.

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Most Common Weeds

Ethiopia, with its diverse climates ranging from hot, arid lowlands to cooler highlands, offers a hospitable haven for an array of garden weeds. These invasive plants thrive in the fertile soils and variable weather patterns, often challenging gardeners and farmers. Among the most common culprits, , , and dominate, each competing aggressively with native flora for space, nutrients, and sunlight. Their pervasiveness in Ethiopian gardens underscores the ongoing battle against these unwanted invaders which disrupt local ecosystems and agricultural productivity.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Ethiopia's varied landscapes, from highland plateaus to deep valleys, coupled with equatorial yet diverse climatic conditions, serve as a fertile cradle for an assortment of towering arboreal giants. Among these, , , and stand tall, piercing the skyline with grandeur. These species are not merely tall but carry significant ecological and historical heft, governing the canopy and providing quintessential roles in their respective ecosystems.

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Most Common Plants

In Ethiopia, you can find Grain sorghum, Rivet wheat, Barley, Common lantana, Golden dewdrops, and more! There are 434 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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