Try for Free
tab list
PictureThis
English
arrow
English
繁體中文
日本語
Español
Français
Deutsch
Pусский
Português
Italiano
PictureThis
Search
Search Plants
Try for Free
Global
English
English
繁體中文
日本語
Español
Français
Deutsch
Pусский
Português
Italiano
This page looks better in the app
picturethis icon
Instantly identify plants with a snap
Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.
Download the App for Free
Continue Reading
Img leaf leftImg leaf right

Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Jamaica

Jamaica's warm, tropical climate and diverse ecosystems are conducive to the growth of a variety of flora, including toxic plants. High humidity, ample rainfall, and fertile soils contribute to the prevalence of harmful vegetation. While many plants are beneficial, the region does host Golden dewdrops, Dieffenbachia, and Cow parsnip, which pose risks to humans and animals. The pervasiveness of such plants raises ecological and public health concerns.

Icon common plants
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
Dieffenbachia
2. Dieffenbachia
Although commonly kept as houseplants, all parts of the dieffenbachia contain toxic compounds that are especially dangerous to children and pets.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Creeping buttercup
3. Creeping buttercup
Creeping buttercup can be severely toxic to dogs; you should seek immediate veterinary attention if you believe your dog has eaten or come into contact with a plant of this type. All parts of these plants contain ranunculin, a toxin that is poisonous when swallowed and also can irritate skin, causing redness or itch. Ingestion symptoms ranging from excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and loss of appetite to paralysis, seizures, jaundice, spasms, collapse, or even death.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Your Essential Companion for Global Plant Exploration
From American natives to Philippine tropics, discover plants worldwide with our app.
Download the App for Free
Cow parsnip
4. Cow parsnip
Cow parsnip (Heracleum sphondylium) is a species of flowering perennial herb related to parsley and fennel. Its specific epithet, "sphondylium," means "vertebrate," and references its segmented appearance. This species produces extremely large amounts of nectar and thus attracts many bees.
Toxic to:
Human
Hairy willowherb
5. Hairy willowherb
Hairy willowherb (Epilobium hirsutum) is a species of weed that is difficult to eradicate. It is not known to be toxic, but the sale of this plant or its seeds has been banned in some areas. This is because its dense, aggressive growth habits can crowd out and destroy other native beneficial plants.
Toxic to:
Human
Heart of jesus
6. Heart of jesus
The heart of jesus is a poisonous leafy plant. Its paper-thin, heart-shaped leaves lend the plant its common nickname, along with names like "angel wings" and "elephant ear." Though native to South America, its primary hub of cultivation is now around Lake Placid, Florida, where it has become a popular centerpiece for an annual festival.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Castor bean
7. 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
Asthma-plant
8. 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
Star of Bethlehem
9. 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
Turkey berry
10. 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
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
Mexican fireplant
12. 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
Prostrate sandmat
13. 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
Common columbine
14. Common columbine
The common columbine is a tall, flowering plant, typically with a long stem and light purple flowers. The Latin specific name for the plant, "vulgaris," means "common," and it comes from the fact that the plants spread easily and grow in many places around Europe. Ancient Romans considered the common columbine to be sacred for the goddess, Venus.
Toxic to:
Human
Rosary Pea
15. 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
Potato
16. 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
Sago palm
17. 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
Brazilian peppertree
18. Brazilian peppertree
Brazilian peppertree (Schinus terebinthifolia) is a flowering plant native to South America that is related to the cashew. Brazilian peppertree is widely cultivated as a houseplant in regions without frost. The plant can cause skin irritation in people with sensitive skin.
Toxic to:
Human
Evergreen spindle
19. Evergreen spindle
Evergreen spindle(Euonymus japonicus) is a popular ornamental evergreen shrub with numerous cultivars. Due to its superb adaptability and decorative looks, evergreen spindle can be found in parks and gardens all over the world. Its flowers produce a lot of nectar, which makes this plant very attractive to bees.
Toxic to:
Human
Bellyache bush
20. 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
Discover 4 Exciting Reasons to Choose PictureThis
Instantly identify plants with a snap
Identify toxic plants around you
Easily find your perfect green friends
Get full care tips and tricks for your plants
Download the App for Free
Icon code

Scan QR code to download

Icon plant

More Plants in Jamaica

Mask group

Most Common Flowers

Jamaica's warm tropical climate and fertile soil provide an ideal environment for a diverse array of native flowers. Among the most characteristic blooms found in this captivating region are the , , and . These flowers not only add vibrant colors to the landscape but also hold great cultural and ecological significance. Precise and trustworthy sources confirm the visual beauty and symbolism these flowers bring to Jamaica's rich natural heritage.

Mask group

Most Common Fruits

Jamaica's tropical climate, marked by warm temperatures, abundant rainfall, and fertile soils, creates an ideal environment for the growth of a variety of local fruit plants. Notable among these are , , and , each with deep roots in Jamaican culture and cuisine. The prolific growth of such fruit plants not only contributes to the country's rich agricultural tapestry but also serves as a keystone to its food heritage and economic sustenance.

Mask group

Most Common Trees

Jamaica's tropical climate and fertile soil provide an ideal environment for a diverse range of native trees. Among the emblematic species are , , and . These trees hold great cultural and ecological value in Jamaica, serving as important sources of food, medicine, and timber. They also contribute to the preservation of the island's unique biodiversity.

Mask group

Most Common Weeds

Jamaica's warm, tropical climate with abundant rainfall provides an ideal environment for various garden weeds to flourish. Among the prolific green invaders, , , and pose significant challenges to gardeners and landscapers, necessitating persistent removal efforts to maintain desired vegetation. These weeds not only compete for nutrients and space but also attract pests, complicating the upkeep of both ornamental and agricultural settings.

Mask group

Most Common Tall Trees

Jamaica's balmy tropical climate and varied terrain, encompassing mountainous regions and deep valleys, create fertile grounds for towering trees. The island is home to impressive arboreal giants like the mighty , the stalwart , and the historic . These trees not only punctuate the skyline, reaching incredible heights, but also serve critical roles in sustaining the ecosystem and symbolizing Jamaica's lush biodiversity.

Mask group

Most Common Plants

In Jamaica, you can find Flame of the woods, Tropical almond, Mango tree, Common coconut palm, Seagrape, and more! There are 2,272 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.

close
close
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
product icon
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
product icon
Nearly 5 years of research
product icon
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
ad
ad
Botanist in your pocket
qrcode
PictureThis Ios DownloadPictureThis Android Download
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
close
close
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
product icon
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
product icon
Nearly 5 years of research
product icon
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
ad
ad
Botanist in your pocket
qrcode
PictureThis Ios DownloadPictureThis Android Download
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app