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Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Malawi

Malawi's warm, wet climate, interspersed with varied topography, creates an environment conducive to a range of flora, including toxic plants. The prevalence of such vegetation, like Golden dewdrops, Sago palm, and Flame lily, poses ecological and health risks. These species thrive amid Malawi's plentiful rainfall and rich soils, prompting vigilance in managing their spread and impact on local ecosystems and communities.

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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
Sago palm
2. 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
Crown Flower
3. 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
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Flame lily
4. 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
Palay rubbervine
5. 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
Potato
6. 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
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
Bird of paradise
8. 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
Castor bean
9. 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
Pokeweed
10. 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
Western white clematis
11. Western white clematis
Clematis ligusticifolia species are mildly to moderately toxic to dogs. All parts of most western white clematis 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
Illinois Bundleflower
12. Illinois Bundleflower
The illinois Bundleflower, or Desmanthus illinoensis, is a legume and a beneficial plant for prairie restoration and plant collecting. This unusual plant features dark green segmented leaves and white fluffy flowers that attract pollinators.
Toxic to:
Human
Poison ivy
13. 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
Caribbean copper plant
14. 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
Donkey ears
15. Donkey ears
A fast-growing succulent, donkey ears has waxy, ear-like leaves that can grow up to 52 cm long. New plants grow on the tips of the leaves. When the leaves reach the soil, they will take root and form new plants.
Toxic to:
Pets
Bellyache bush
16. 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
Durian
17. 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.
Rosary Pea
18. 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
American elder
19. American elder
American elder (Sambucus canadensis) is a North American native deciduous shrub with enormous inflorescence of grouped small white flowers and dangling bunches of mauveine berries. When cooked, the fruits can be added to pies, pancakes, and jellies. Wine can also be produced from its flowers and fruits. The bushy leaves and arching branches attract wildlife, providing nesting space for birds.
Toxic to:
Human
Angel's trumpet
20. 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
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More Plants in Malawi

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Most Common Flowers

Malawi, with its warm climate and nutrient-rich soil, provides an ideal environment for various native flowers to flourish. Among them, the striking , , and hold great significance in the region. These flowers not only add to the visual charm of Malawi but also carry symbolic and ecological importance. Trustworthy sources reveal the resplendent beauty and ecological value of these indigenous blooms in the region.

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Most Common Fruits

Malawi's warm subtropical climate and fertile soils are highly conducive to the cultivation of a variety of local fruit plants. Important crops such as , , and greatly benefit from the consistent rainfall and temperature patterns characteristic of the region. These fruit plants hold substantial cultural significance and are integral to the local diet, economy, and traditions, underscoring their prominence in Malawian agriculture.

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Most Common Trees

Malawi's climate and soil conditions are conducive to the growth of a variety of indigenous trees. Three emblematic trees found in the region include , , and . These trees hold great significance both culturally and ecologically. They provide habitats for a diverse range of fauna, contribute to the country's biodiversity, and have been used for various traditional practices and medicinal purposes. Their presence in Malawi's environment highlights the rich natural heritage of the country.

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Most Common Weeds

Malawi's warm climate, coupled with heavy seasonal rains, creates ideal conditions for rampant weed growth. Common garden weeds that challenge local green thumbs include , , and . These invasive species not only compete with cultivated flora for space, nutrients, and light but also pose trouble for farmers and gardeners striving to maintain biodiversity and productivity in their plots.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Nestled in the warm heart of Africa, Malawi's predominantly subtropical climate and diverse landscapes, from mountains to woodlands, cradle an assortment of soaring arborescents. Among these, , , and represent the zenith of vegetative marvels, each piercing the heavens and sculpting the skyline. These titans anchor the ecosystem with their ecological gravitas, whispering tales of the land's verdant heritage.

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Most Common Plants

In Malawi, you can find Yellow oleander, Madagascar periwinkle, Tropical almond, Sugar apple, Indian shot, and more! There are 182 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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