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Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Rwanda

Rwanda's diverse habitats, from rainforests to savannas, accompanied by a mild climate and rich volcanic soils, present an ideal environment for a variety of flora including Golden dewdrops, Bird of paradise, and Castor bean. This biodiversity, while beneficial for ecological balance, poses challenges regarding the prevalence of toxic plants, which requires careful monitoring to mitigate possible risks to humans and wildlife.

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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
Turkey berry
3. 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
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Castor bean
4. 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
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
Caribbean copper plant
6. 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
American elder
7. 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
Prostrate sandmat
8. 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
Sago palm
9. 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
Pink rain lily
10. 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
Asthma-plant
11. 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
Flame lily
12. 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
Sullu spurge
13. Sullu spurge
Sullu spurge, or Euphorbia royleana, is a deciduous, cactus-shaped succulent. Leafy stems grow from the top of the plant, which loses its leaves in hot or cold periods. This plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers. It has spines on its stems and is considered mildly toxic.
Toxic to:
Human
Rough horsetail
14. 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
Lenten rose
15. Lenten rose
The lenten rose (Helleborus orientalis) has been cultivated since the Germans began to do so in the mid-1800s, with varieties being created in the United Kingdom shortly after. Between the 1920s and 1960s, there was little interest in its cultivation until Helen Ballard bred new varieties. They are blooming early in the year hence they get their name of "Lenten rose".
Toxic to:
Human
Calla lily
16. 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
Rosary Pea
17. 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
Palay rubbervine
18. 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
Pacific yew
19. Pacific yew
Pacific yew is highly toxic to all animal species, including humans, dogs, cats, livestock and poultry, with all parts of the plant capable of causing death when consumed in large amounts.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Glossy shower
20. Glossy shower
Glossy shower (Senna surattensis) is an evergreen, perennial tree that blooms year-round with golden-yellow flowers. It is also called Scrambled Eggplant, Sunshine Tree, or Golden Senna. It thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil. It is considered an invasive weed in Asia.
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More Plants in Rwanda

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Most Common Flowers

Rwanda's climate and soil provide a perfect environment for a variety of native flowers. Three notable blossoms include , , and . These flowers contribute to the region's visual beauty, symbolism, and ecological balance. Precise information from trusted sources confirms their significance in Rwanda's flora. The vibrant colors and delicate petals of these indigenous flowers showcase the natural splendor of this unique African nation.

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Most Common Fruits

Rwanda's equatorial highland climate, characterized by substantial rainfall and fertile volcanic soils, provides a nurturing ground for local fruit cultivation. Prominent among these are , , and , each with deep roots in the region’s agricultural practices and cultural heritage. These fruit plants not only bolster food security but also form an integral part of traditional Rwandan diets and commerce.

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Most Common Trees

Rwanda's temperate climate and rich volcanic soil provide an ideal environment for diverse native trees to flourish. Among these, three emblematic species stand tall: , , and . These trees hold cultural and ecological significance within the region. They provide shade, timber, and medicinal resources, while also promoting biodiversity and soil conservation. The impressive variety of native trees in Rwanda showcases the country's commitment to environmental sustainability and the preservation of its natural heritage.

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Most Common Weeds

Rwanda's temperate climate and abundant rainfall create an ideal environment for a variety of garden weeds, demanding constant vigilance from gardeners. Among the most common weeds, , , and are particularly tenacious, often outcompeting domestic plants for resources. The proliferation of such weeds poses a challenge for maintaining intended flora, reflecting an ongoing battle between natural robustness and cultivated order.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Nestled within the heart of Africa, Rwanda's climate, comprising a blend of tropical savanna and montane regions, nurtures a verdant tapestry of flora. Towering above this landscape are majestic trees, notably , , and , which are among the loftiest in this biodiverse country. These arboreal titans not only punctuate the skyline but also serve as vital ecological keystones and beacons of Rwanda's natural heritage.

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Most Common Plants

In Rwanda, you can find Mango tree, Chinese hibiscus, Garden croton, Common lantana, Golden dewdrops, and more! There are 533 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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