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Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Portugal

Portugal's warm Mediterranean climate, with wet winters and dry summers, creates propitious conditions for a variety of flora, including Bird of paradise, Pokeweed, and Evergreen spindle. These conditions can favor the growth of toxic plants, some of which are indigenous and others that have adapted to the local landscape. With a rich biodiversity, Portugal’s environments, from coastal to inland regions, must be monitored for the prevalence of such hazardous flora.

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Most Common Toxic Plants
Bird of paradise
1. 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
Pokeweed
2. 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
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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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
Dieffenbachia
5. 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
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
Golden dewdrops
7. 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
Calla lily
8. 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
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
Rough horsetail
10. Rough horsetail
Rough horsetail (Equisetum hyemale) is an evergreen perennial. An aggressive grower, it reproduces through spores and is non-flowering. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is pest resistant. It provides erosion control, grows well in wetlands and makes an interesting addition to water gardens. Expected height of 61 to 91 cm.
Toxic to:
Human
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
Evergreen azalea
12. 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
Jerusalem cherry
13. 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
Common hyacinth
14. 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
Cape gooseberry
15. 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.
Striped barbados lily
16. 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
Round-leafed navel-wort
17. Round-leafed navel-wort
Round-leafed navel-wort (Cotyledon orbiculata) is a plant species native to South Africa. Round-leafed navel-wort is considered a highly variable species in its outward presentation. This species grows in grasslands, fynbos and karoo regions.
Persian cyclamen
18. 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
Tasmanian blue gum
19. Tasmanian blue gum
Tasmanian blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus) is an evergreen tree that can grow to over 61 m tall. Blooms from fall to spring with yellowish white flowers. Flower buds have a warty cap that falls off to release the numerous brush-like stamens. Attracts bees hummingbirds and other pollinators. Grows in full sun and is a great specimen for parks and city courtyards.
Toxic to:
Pets
Chilean jasmine
20. 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.
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More Plants in Portugal

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Most Common Flowers

Portugal enjoys a Mediterranean climate and diverse soil conditions that create a perfect environment for native flowers to flourish. Among these flora, three notable blossoms stand out. adds vibrant colors to the landscape, showcases a delicate beauty, and thrives in the region's unique ecosystem. These flowers not only contribute to the visual charm of Portugal but also hold symbolic and ecological significance. Trustworthy sources validate the information about their characteristics and importance in the region.

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Most Common Fruits

Portugal, with its warm Mediterranean climate and fertile soil, provides an ideal setting for the cultivation of local fruit plants. Key produce includes , , and , each deeply ingrained in the country's cultural fabric and culinary traditions. The temperate coastal areas promote year-round growth, while the sun-drenched interior regions nurture the plants' maturation, underscoring the nation's agricultural diversity and richness.

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Most Common Trees

Portugal's climatic conditions and soil composition provide a favorable environment for a variety of native trees. Three emblematic trees found in this territory are , , and . These trees hold significant cultural and ecological value in the region. Their presence adds to the natural beauty of Portugal and contributes to its rich biodiversity.

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Most Common Weeds

Portugal's mild climate and fertile soils create a hospitable environment for a variety of garden weeds. Among the most common invaders challenging gardeners are , , and . These weeds compete with cultivated plants for resources and can be burdensome to control, making them persistent concerns in both agricultural and ornamental landscapes across the region.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Portugal, a country with mild to warm Mediterranean climate and diverse terrains, creates an ideal setting for imposing trees to flourish. Among these, the proud stands as a reminder of the country's rich biological heritage. The lofty rivals in height, offering not just shade but also an integral part of local ecosystems. Finally, the venerable stretches towards the heavens, steeped in historical significance and ecological contributions.

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Most Common Plants

In Portugal, you can find Olive, Indian Laurel, Cork oak, Sweet basil, Maritime pine, and more! There are 4,633 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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