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Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Guyana

Guyana's warm, humid climate and diverse ecosystems, including rainforests and coastal plains, create an ideal environment for a variety of flora, including toxic plants. Concerns about the prevalence of poisonous species are pertinent given the region's rich biodiversity. Among the concerning species are Heart of jesus, Castor bean, and Dieffenbachia, which are part of the delicate balance of the local habitat.

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Most Common Toxic Plants
Heart of jesus
1. 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
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
Golden dewdrops
3. 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
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Dieffenbachia
4. 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
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
Bellyache bush
6. 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
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
Flame lily
8. 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
Devil's-backbone
9. Devil's-backbone
Devil's-backbone (Euphorbia tithymaloides) is a succulent species of spurge native to North and Central America. It has been planted in gardens since the 17th century and valued for its unique appearance and its habit of attracting hummingbirds. However, nearly all parts of this species are toxic and should not be consumed.
Toxic to:
Human
Rosary Pea
10. 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
Asthma-plant
11. 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
Potato
12. 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
Scarlet begonia
13. Scarlet begonia
Another name for scarlet begonia (Begonia coccinea) is angel wing begonia because its oval-shaped leaves remind some people of angel wings. Others think it looks like the wings of a mythical flying beast: begonia dragon wing is an alternative name for it. The plants are native to South America, where they love to clamber up the sides of cliffs.
Toxic to:
Pets
Bird of paradise
14. 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
Pokeweed
15. 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
Durian
16. 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
17. 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
Palay rubbervine
18. 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
Star of Bethlehem
19. 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
Sago palm
20. 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
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More Plants in Guyana

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Most Common Flowers

Guyana, known for its tropical climate and fertile soil, provides an ideal environment for a variety of indigenous flowers to flourish. Among these blooms, , , and stand out as the most characteristic and visually captivating. These flowers not only add aesthetic beauty to the region but also hold symbolic or ecological importance. Reliable sources validate the information about these local treasures, making them an integral part of Guyana's natural heritage.

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Most Common Fruits

Guyana's equatorial climate, marked by abundant rainfall and fertile soil, creates an ideal environment for the cultivation of local fruit plants. Significant among these are , , and , each deeply embedded in the country's culinary and cultural practices. The warm temperatures throughout the year and the rich alluvial soils along the riverbanks contribute to the healthy growth of these indigenous fruits, making them staples and symbols of Guyanese heritage.

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Most Common Trees

Guyana's climatic and soil conditions provide an ideal environment for the growth of native trees. Among the emblematic trees in this territory are the , , and . These trees hold great significance culturally and ecologically. They contribute to the region's biodiversity and provide resources for local communities. The , for example, is known for its medicinal properties, while the plays a crucial role in the ecosystem as a habitat for various species. Similarly, the is highly valued for its timber and contributes to the country's economy.

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Most Common Weeds

Guyana's warm, humid climate and consistent rainfall create a fertile environment for garden weeds to proliferate. Among the most common weeds that plague local gardeners are , , and . These opportunistic species readily invade gardens and landscapes, often outcompeting native flora for resources. Effective management is essential to prevent these weeds from overpowering cultivated plants, highlighting the ongoing battle against these unwelcome invaders.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Nestled in the heart of the neotropical realm, Guyana's lush rainforests and fertile plains foster staggering arboreal giants. Amidst this biodiversity hotspot, the towering , majestic , and the colossal reach skyward, emblematic of the region's verdant grandeur. Pillars of the ecosystem, these species play a critical role in sustaining local wildlife and hold historical resonance with indigenous narratives, standing as natural monuments to Guyana's rich ecological tapestry.

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Most Common Plants

In Guyana, you can find Common coconut palm, Papaya, Chinese violet, Flame of the woods, Mango tree, and more! There are 788 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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