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Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Malta

Malta's mild winters and hot summers create a hospitable environment for a diverse range of flora, including toxic species. Despite its limited land area, the island sustains a variety of habitats conducive to the proliferation of certain poisonous plants. The potential for encountering toxic flora such as Castor bean, Brazilian peppertree, and Pokeweed poses a noteworthy risk for both humans and wildlife in the region.

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Most Common Toxic Plants
Castor bean
1. 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
Brazilian peppertree
2. 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
Matted Sandmat
3. Matted Sandmat
Matted Sandmat is an annual weed that grows flat along the ground into a matted form. It has a long tap root and hardy seeds, which make it difficult to eradicate. This plant’s sap can irritate the skin and is toxic.
Toxic to:
Human
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Pokeweed
4. 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
Bird of paradise
5. 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
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
Dieffenbachia
7. 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
Starch grape hyacinth
8. 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
Sun spurge
9. 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
Common corncockle
10. Common corncockle
Common corncockle (Agrostemma githago) is an annual that will grow to 91 cm tall. Its purple blooms flower from spring to summer with seeds ripening from summer to fall. Considered a weed in cultivated farm areas it can be a nice addition to the home garden. The rigid stems make it an excellent choice for a cut flower arrangement.
Toxic to:
Human
Evergreen spindle
11. 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
Golden dewdrops
12. 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
Striped barbados lily
13. 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
Calla lily
14. 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
Golden spider-lily
15. Golden spider-lily
The golden spider-lily has leafless spears with bright yellow flowers that attract butterflies, especially in the late summer or early fall. It is native to Japan and China, and the flowers appear to spring magically from the ground. This plant grows in forest edges or subtropical grasslands.
Toxic to:
Human
Poison ivy
16. 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
Cape gooseberry
17. Cape gooseberry
Cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana) is a perennial shrub species native to South America. This species has been cultivated by humans for a very long time, and can be traced to the Incan civilization. Cape gooseberry grows optimally in fertile, slightly acidic soil in full sun.
Ficus Ginseng
18. Ficus Ginseng
Ficus Ginseng is distinct for its thick, bulbous roots, which resemble ginseng roots. It is easy to grow and grows fast, making it a popular plant for bonsai.
Toxic to:
Pets
Chilean jasmine
19. Chilean jasmine
Chilean jasmine (Mandevilla laxa) is a flowering plant species that grows best in full sunlight and well-drained soil. Chilean jasmine is native to Chile and Argentina. This species produces masses of heavily-scented white flowers in the summer months, which smell like vanilla.
Common boxwood
20. Common boxwood
Plants of genus Buxus are widely present around the world as а hedge or garden ornamental plants, but they contain alkaloids, most notably buxin, which are toxic to animals.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
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More Plants in Malta

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Most Common Flowers

Malta, with its Mediterranean climate and fertile soil, provides an ideal environment for native flowers to flourish. Among the characteristic blossoms that bloom resplendently here are , , and . These flowers add visual beauty to the landscape while also holding important symbolism and ecological importance for the region. Trustworthy sources validate the information shared, ensuring accuracy and precision in conveying their significance.

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Most Common Fruits

Malta's mild winters and long, hot summers, complemented by its fertile soil, create ideal conditions for fruit cultivation. Renowned local fruit plants include , , and . These fruits are not just agricultural products but also integral to Malta's cultural and culinary heritage, often celebrated in seasonal festivals and local cuisine. Their growth and consumption are steeped in tradition, symbolizing the island's agricultural abundance and biodiversity.

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Most Common Trees

Malta's climate and soil conditions provide a favorable environment for the growth of native trees. Three of the most emblematic trees in Malta are , , and . These trees hold significance in the region due to their cultural and ecological value. They contribute to the diversity and beauty of the Maltese landscape, offering shade, shelter, and habitat for local wildlife.

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Most Common Weeds

Malta's warm Mediterranean climate, with its mild winters and hot, dry summers, provides an ideal environment for various garden weeds to flourish. Amongst the most common invaders disrupting local gardens are , , and , each thriving in Malta's conducive conditions. These weeds pose a persistent challenge to Maltese gardeners, as they compete with cultivated plants for resources and can be difficult to eradicate.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Bathed in the warm embrace of the Mediterranean climate, Malta's terrain gently nurtures a variety of trees to elevate its skyline. Amidst this green tapestry, three giants stand out: , , and . Each of these towering tree species commands attention, their immense canopies casting wide shadows. More than just tall structures, they represent key ecological assets or bear witness to Malta's rich history, monuments of nature that hold stories and sustain biodiversity.

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Most Common Plants

In Malta, you can find Japanese pittosporum, Marijuana, Oleander, Indian Laurel, Cape leadwort, and more! There are 977 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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