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Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Lebanon

Lebanon, blessed with a Mediterranean climate, nurtures a rich floral diversity, including toxic species. The varied topography combined with temperate winters and hot summers forms an ideal habitat for plants such as Dieffenbachia, Persian cyclamen, and Evergreen spindle. While these species enhance biodiversity, their prevalence raises ecological health concerns, underscoring the need for vigilant land management and public education on potential risks.

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Most Common Toxic Plants
Dieffenbachia
1. 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
Persian cyclamen
2. 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
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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Evergreen spindle
4. 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
Potato
5. 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
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
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
Common hyacinth
8. Common hyacinth
Hyacinthus orientalis is one of the heralds of spring. The name common hyacinth comes from the Greek name Hyacinthus. According to Greek legend, Hyacinthus was admired by both Apollo and Zephyrus. Hyacinthus ended up being killed out of jealousy and a flower bloomed on the spot where his blood was spilled. Apollo named the flower after his lost love.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Calla lily
9. 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
Evergreen azalea
10. 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
Oleander
11. 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
Durian
12. 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.
Spanish broom
13. 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
Striped barbados lily
14. 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
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
Golden dewdrops
16. 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
Smoketree
17. Smoketree
Smoketree is a deciduous tree native to Southern Europe and Central China. The flowers of the smoketree are pinkish-purple and long-lasting. They grow in clusters along branches and give a smoky appearance to the tree when in bloom. In China, they are used as important fall decorations due to their foliage turn bright red in the fall.
Toxic to:
Human
Jerusalem cherry
18. 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
Sun spurge
19. Sun spurge
Sun spurge (Euphorbia helioscopia) is a winter annual that grows along the ground in a variety of locations from gardens to wastelands. It features distinctive red colored stems with toothed leaves that emit a toxic milky sap when cut or torn. Pale yellow flowers bloom from spring to summer and give way to fruit. This plant is considered a weed.
Toxic to:
Human
Starch grape hyacinth
20. Starch grape hyacinth
Starch grape hyacinth (Muscari neglectum) is a perennial plant native to Eurasia, commonly grown as an ornamental houseplant in temperate climates. It is also known as the common grape hyacinth or the grape hyacinth for its flowers' resemblance to the grapes.
Toxic to:
Human
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Most Common Flowers

Lebanon's thriving native flowers bloom magnificently in its unique climate and soil. Among them are , , and , each showcasing exquisite beauty and ecological significance. These flowers are a symbol of the region's natural abundance and cultural heritage. Trustworthy sources validate their presence, making them an integral part of Lebanon's vibrant floral landscape.

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Lebanon benefits from a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters, coupled with fertile soil, making it ideal for cultivating a variety of local fruit plants. This environment nurtures prominent fruit crops such as , , and , which are not just agricultural products but also integral to Lebanon's cultural fabric. The cultivation of these fruits taps into traditional farming practices, underscoring their significance in the Lebanese agrarian legacy.

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Lebanon's favorable climatic conditions and rich soil nurture a diverse range of native trees. Among them, three emblematic species that flourish in this territory are , , and . These trees hold great significance, both culturally and ecologically, within the region. They contribute to Lebanon's scenic beauty, provide habitat for various wildlife, and play a vital role in conserving the local environment.

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Most Common Weeds

Lebanon's climate, with its wet winters and hot summers, often marred by droughts, creates a hospitable environment for a variety of garden weeds. Among these, , , and are particularly prevalent, posing challenges to gardeners and landscapers. Efforts to manage these invasive species are crucial to maintaining the health and aesthetics of Lebanese gardens.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Nestled within the Mediterranean basin, Lebanon's varied landscapes and temperate climate provide fertile ground for towering arboreal giants. Amidst its rugged mountains and verdant valleys thrive the imposing , the robust , and the lofty . These soaring sentinels are not only rooted deeply within Lebanon's soil but also within its cultural tapestry, standing as symbols of endurance and natural heritage through the ages.

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Most Common Plants

In Lebanon, you can find Cape jasmine, Indian Laurel, Sweet basil, Lemon, Large-leaved lime, and more! There are 1,736 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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