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Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Guatemala

Guatemala's warm, humid climate and diverse ecosystems—from rainforests to highlands—provide an ideal setting for a vast range of flora, including toxic species. Concerns over toxic plants are heightened given the prevalence of Golden dewdrops, Castor bean, and Potato in the region, which may pose risks to humans, livestock, and wildlife. Vigilance and education on these species are important for local safety and biodiversity conservation.

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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
Bird of paradise
3. 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
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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
Dieffenbachia
5. 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
Sago palm
6. 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
Turkey berry
7. 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
Rough horsetail
8. Rough horsetail
Rough horsetail (Equisetum hyemale) is an evergreen perennial. An aggressive grower, it reproduces through spores and is non-flowering. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is pest resistant. It provides erosion control, grows well in wetlands and makes an interesting addition to water gardens. Expected height of 61 to 91 cm.
Toxic to:
Human
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
Jerusalem cherry
10. 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
Mexican prickly poppy
11. 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
Caribbean copper plant
12. 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
Angel's trumpet
13. 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
Barbados nut
14. 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
Star of Bethlehem
15. 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
Mexican fireplant
16. 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
Striped barbados lily
17. 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
Persian cyclamen
18. 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
Heart of jesus
19. 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
Calla lily
20. 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
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More Plants in Guatemala

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Most Common Flowers

Guatemala's climate and soil offer ideal conditions for the proliferation of native flowers. Three prominent blossoms that thrive in this environment are , , and . These flowers not only showcase stunning visual beauty but also hold deep cultural and ecological significance. Verified sources validate the reliability of this information, ensuring an accurate portrayal of Guatemala's floral diversity and importance.

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Most Common Fruits

Guatemala's rich volcanic soil and diverse microclimates, ranging from tropical to temperate, create an ideal environment for the growth of local fruit plants. Among the bounty, , , and not only thrive but also hold significant cultural importance, representing the rich agricultural traditions of the region. The cultivation of these fruits supports local economies and sustains agricultural heritage, as they are deeply embedded in the gastronomy and customs of the Guatemalan people.

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Most Common Trees

Guatemala's diverse climate and fertile soil create optimal conditions for the growth of native trees. Among the emblematic trees of this territory are , known for its majestic appearance and ecological importance, , which holds cultural significance and provides valuable resources, and , a symbol of Guatemala's rich biodiversity. These trees play a vital role in the region's ecosystem and hold great value in both cultural and ecological contexts.

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Most Common Weeds

Guatemala's warm, humid climate and fertile volcanic soil provide an ideal breeding ground for a plethora of garden weeds. Among the most common, , , and pose a recurrent challenge for gardeners and landscapers alike. Their prevalence demands consistent management to preserve the health and aesthetics of native flora. The pervasive spread of such weeds underlines the environmental adaptability and survival proficiency that characterizes Guatemala's rich biodiversity.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Nestled between the tropical wet and moist forest zones, Guatemala's diverse landscape creates a haven for some of the planet's most majestic trees. Ancient forests, characterized by a mixture of rugged highlands and lower-lying areas, host towering species that often break the canopy and dominate the skyline. Spectacular examples of this arboreal grandeur include , , and , each playing a crucial role in the ecosystem and bearing its own unique significance, often intertwined with the country's rich cultural tapestry.

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Most Common Plants

In Guatemala, you can find Chinese hibiscus, Madagascar periwinkle, Golden dewdrops, Common coleus, China rose, and more! There are 3,471 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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