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Top 13 Most Common Toxic Plants in Namibia

Namibia's arid and semi-arid climates, along with its seasonal rivers and fertile deltas, present an environment where certain toxic plants can thrive. Despite harsh conditions, these areas provide niches for Castor bean, Golden dewdrops, and Palay rubbervine, contributing to a unique but concerning repertoire of poisonous flora. The prevalence of such plants poses risks to livestock and humans, underscoring the importance of understanding and managing these natural hazards.

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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
Golden dewdrops
2. 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
3. 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
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Palay rubbervine
4. 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
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
Bird of paradise
6. 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
Prostrate sandmat
7. 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
Bearded iris
8. Bearded iris
Bearded iris is known to cause contact dermatitis in some individuals. The most commonly reported symptom is minor skin irritation, typically lasting only a few minutes. This can result from contact with the seeds, roots, or sap of this plant. Furthermore, all parts of bearded iris are toxic when ingested, especially the roots. Symptoms typically including minor or moderate burning sensations, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fever. This plant is most often encountered in a garden context, where it is planted as an ornamental.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Evergreen spindle
9. 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
Brazilian peppertree
10. 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
Pokeweed
11. 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
Common columbine
12. Common columbine
All parts of common columbine, including the stem, leaves, flowers, and seeds, are toxic when they are ingested raw. Contact with the plant's sap may also lead to dermatitis (skin irritation and inflammation). The symptoms from common columbine poisoning are likely to cause only mild to moderate effects, but the symptoms are not well-known, since there are few documented cases of it. Adverse effects are most likely to occur from accidental ingestion.
Toxic to:
Human
Flame lily
13. 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
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More Plants in Namibia

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Most Common Flowers

Namibia's unique climate and soil conditions create an ideal environment for a variety of native flowers to bloom. Among these, , , and stand out for their visual beauty, symbolism, and ecological importance. These flowers add bursts of vibrant colors to the landscape and play a crucial role in the local ecosystem. Trustworthy sources validate the information about these characteristic flowers, making Namibia a truly magnificent destination for flower enthusiasts.

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Most Common Fruits

Namibia's arid climate and hardy soil composition forge a unique environment conducive to the growth of robust local fruit plants like , , and . These plants not only thrive in the challenging conditions but also carry significant cultural importance, forming an integral part of local diets, traditions, and economies. Their resilience is emblematic of the Namibian spirit, sustaining and nourishing communities across diverse landscapes.

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Most Common Trees

Namibia's climate and soil conditions provide an ideal environment for the growth of indigenous trees. Three emblematic trees in this territory are the , , and . These trees hold significant cultural and ecological value within the region. They contribute to the unique biodiversity and play a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem. With their distinct characteristics and adaptability, these trees showcase the resilience and beauty of Namibia's natural heritage.

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Most Common Weeds

Namibia, with its arid to semi-arid climate, offers a unique battleground against hardy garden weeds adept at thriving in such challenging conditions. Amongst the myriad of invasive species, , , and are notably prevalent, often outcompeting domestic flora for scarce water and nutrients. Gardeners in the region consistently grapple with these aggressive interlopers, emphasizing the importance of considerate landscaping and informed weed management practices to maintain ecological balance.

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Most Common Tall Trees

In the arid and semi-arid expanses of Namibia, where desert sands meet Savannah grasslands, select towering trees defy the typically harsh conditions. Among the giants reaching for the heavens, , , and stand as monumental natural beacons. These species not only dominate the skyline but also carry significant ecological and historical weight, symbolizing the resilience and diversity of Namibia's flora.

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Most Common Plants

In Namibia, you can find Welwitschia, Jimsonweed, Castor bean, Watermelon, Sweet thorn, and more! There are 37 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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Identify grow and nurture the better way!
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17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
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