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Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Mauritius

Mauritius, with its tropical maritime climate and fertile soil, provides an ideal habitat for a diverse range of flora including Golden dewdrops, Bird of paradise, and Asthma-plant. Given the island's humidity and warm temperatures, conditions are often favorable for toxic plants, which can flourish alongside native and agricultural vegetation. Consequently, there's an ongoing need to monitor and manage these species to safeguard public and ecological health.

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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
Bird of paradise
2. 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
Mexican prickly poppy
3. 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
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Asthma-plant
4. 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
Brazilian peppertree
5. 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
Star of Bethlehem
6. 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
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
Castor bean
8. 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
Pink rain lily
9. Pink rain lily
Pink rain lily (Habranthus robustus) is a plant species native to Brazil. Pink rain lily blooms four to six times in a single summer. This species has blossoms that often bloom right after a rainstorm. Pink rain lily grows equally well in shaded areas and areas with plenty of sun.
Toxic to:
Human
Crown Flower
10. 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
Tree-heliotrope
11. Tree-heliotrope
Tree-heliotrope (Heliotropium foertherianum) is a small, often very low-growing tropical tree which can withstand coastal wind and saline soil. Its easily worked wood is suitable for handicrafts, tools, and even the frames of goggles. In some places, it has been overharvested for use as firewood.
Matted Sandmat
12. 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
Angel's trumpet
13. 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
Rosary Pea
14. 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
Prostrate sandmat
15. 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
Flame lily
16. 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
Pokeweed
17. 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
Hyssop-leaf sandmat
18. Hyssop-leaf sandmat
Hyssop-leaf sandmat (Euphorbia hyssopifolia) is a sandmat that’s indigenous to the southwestern part of the United States. A sandmat is a plant in the genus of Euphorbia that thrives best in deserts. Hyssop-leaf sandmat has a milk-white sap in its stem—just like the milkweed. It’s also known as hyssop spurge, eyebane, wart weed, and chicken weed.
Toxic to:
Human
Mexican fireplant
19. 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
Tasmanian flax-lily
20. Tasmanian flax-lily
Tasmanian flax-lily (Dianella tasmanica) is an Australian herbaceous species that has made its way into many Australian gardens. It grows well with partial shade and regular moisture. Its flowers bloom between summer and winter and are followed by small purple berries. Unlike some related plants the fruits of tasmanian flax-lily are toxic.
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More Plants in Mauritius

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Most Common Flowers

Mauritius boasts a tropical climate and diverse soil composition, providing an ideal environment for native flowers to thrive. Among these blossoms, , , and stand out as characteristic symbols of beauty and ecological significance. These flowers contribute to the stunning visual appeal of the region while playing important roles in the local ecosystem. Reliable sources confirm the authenticity of this information, ensuring accurate portrayal of Mauritius' native flora.

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Most Common Fruits

Mauritius, with its tropical climate and fertile volcanic soil, fosters an environment highly conducive for diverse local fruit plants. Among these, , , and are not just culinary favorites but also culturally ingrained in the island's heritage. Their cultivation is a testament to the region's agricultural adaptability, yielding fruits integral to the local cuisine and traditions, reflecting Mauritius' rich botanical and cultural tapestry.

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Most Common Trees

The climate and soil conditions of Mauritius are conducive for the growth of indigenous trees. Three emblematic local trees include , , and . These trees hold significant cultural and ecological value within the region. They contribute to the unique ecosystem of Mauritius and symbolize its biodiversity.

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Most Common Weeds

Mauritius, with its warm tropical climate and high humidity, provides an almost perfect incubator for a variety of garden weeds. These conditions make managing invasive species like , , and a constant challenge for gardeners. These ubiquitous weeds represent a cross-section of the foliage that competes with cultivated plants, marking them as frequent targets for removal in the battle to maintain healthy and aesthetically pleasing gardens.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Mauritius, with its humid tropical climate and varied terrain, from coastal plains to central plateaus, cultivates soaring arboreal giants. Among these, , , and are noteworthy for their sky-piercing canopies. These species not only dominate the skyline but also play a vital role in the ecological balance and heritage of the island, serving as landmarks of Mauritius's lush biodiversity.

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Most Common Plants

In Mauritius, you can find Red frangipani, Common coconut palm, Golden trumpet, Beach spider lily, Flame of the woods, and more! There are 920 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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