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Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Senegal

In Senegal, the climate is characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, conducive to the growth of a variety of flora, including toxic species. Humidity from coastal regions, coupled with periodic heavy rainfall, can create pockets of lush vegetation where toxic plants such as Dieffenbachia, Castor bean, and Asthma-plant may thrive. Concerns about these plants persist due to their potential impact on human and animal health, as well as biodiversity within local ecosystems.

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Most Common Toxic Plants
Dieffenbachia
1. 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
Castor bean
2. 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
3. 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
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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
Oleander
5. 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
Barbados nut
6. Barbados nut
The barbados nut (Jatropha curcas) plant is cultivated throughout the world for ornamental uses because of its rapid growth. Since cattle will not consume the leaves, it works very well as a living fence around grazing areas. Oil is extracted from the nuts and used as a torch fuel and burns so well that the fires are not affected by strong winds!
Toxic to:
Human
Sago palm
7. 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
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
Potato
9. 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
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
Apple of Sodom
11. Apple of Sodom
Apple of Sodom, or Calotropis procera, is an extremely poisonous plant. The fruit of this plant ripens and bursts, causing the seeds to scatter. In Jamaica, the fibers inside of the fruit are collected and used to stuff pillows.
Palay rubbervine
12. 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
Bird of paradise
13. 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
Indian spurgetree
14. Indian spurgetree
Indian spurgetree (*Euphorbia neriifolia*) is a flowering plant species also known as milk bush, pencil tree, and firestick. Indian spurgetree belongs to a very large genus of Euphorbia neriifolia plants that are often called spurge species. This species is sometimes planted for ornamental purposes and is native to Southern Africa.
Toxic to:
Human
Heart of jesus
15. Heart of jesus
The heart of jesus plant has a name that implies purity, but it is actually toxic. Like other Caladiums, its sap is extremely irritating when eaten or even just applied to the skin. A painful, itchy rash breaks out on contact. That rash is essentially what a person who ingests it will experience as well, except inside of their mouths and all the way down their digestive tracts. Besides a great deal of pain and irritation, this causes severe nausea, excessive salivation, vomiting and diarrhea, and also significant swelling in many cases. Keep this plant away from children.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Mexican fireplant
16. 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
Coffee senna
17. Coffee senna
Coffee senna (*Senna occidentalis*) is a perennial shrub that prefers warm and humid environments. It is sometimes considered an invasive weed that grows in open woodlands, waste areas, and roadsides. It blooms in spring with yellow flowers, followed by brown fruit in late summer and early fall. Seeds can be used as a coffee substitute, although it does not contain caffeine.
Brazilian peppertree
18. 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
Yellow poinciana
19. Yellow poinciana
The Peltophorum pterocarpum is a very popular ornamental tree that is grown in many countries across the globe. The yellow poinciana's wood is also used for making cabinets, while its foliage serves as a fodder crop. It produces yellow flowers which are used as the decorating flower in Telangana State's Batukamma festival.
Common bushweed
20. Common bushweed
The common bushweed (*Flueggea virosa*) is a bushy shrub that produces white, waxy fruits favored by animals and birds. Native to Southern Africa on woodland margins and riverbanks, it has also become naturalized in Hawaii and parts of China, where it is invasive and disruptive to local ecosystems. Common bushweed branches are regularly used to create handmade fish traps.
Toxic to:
Human
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More Plants in Senegal

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Most Common Flowers

Senegal's climate and soil offer ideal conditions for the growth of a diverse array of native flowers. Among the most characteristic blossoms are , , and . These flowers contribute to the visual beauty, symbolize important cultural values, and play a crucial role in the region's ecosystem. Reliable sources confirm the presence of these flowers, making them distinct features of Senegal's vibrant natural environment.

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Most Common Fruits

Senegal's tropical savanna climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons, along with its rich and varied soil types, creates an ideal environment for the cultivation of local fruit plants. Among the myriad of fruits, , , and are particularly noteworthy, each deeply embedded in the country's cultural and economic tapestry. These plants not only contribute to Senegal's biodiversity but also play a pivotal role in local diets, traditional medicine, and the agricultural industry.

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Most Common Trees

Senegal's climatic and soil conditions foster the growth of a diverse range of native trees. Among the emblematic trees are , , and . These trees hold great cultural and ecological significance in the region. They play vital roles in providing shade, food, and shelter for both wildlife and local communities. Their preservation and conservation efforts are important for the sustainability of Senegal's environment and the well-being of its people.

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Most Common Weeds

Senegal's warm climate and frequent rainfall provide fertile grounds for a variety of garden weeds. Amongst the most common, , , and are particularly tenacious in local gardens. These invasive species thrive in Senegal's environment, often outcompeting domestic plants for resources and necessitating persistent weed management efforts to maintain healthy, aesthetic landscapes.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Senegal, a West African nation, is draped in a tapestry of diverse ecosystems, from the arid Sahel to the buzzing wetlands, nurturing trees of impressive height. Amidst this backdrop, , , and stand as natural skyscrapers, their towering presence a testament to the region's fecund conditions. These arboreal giants are not only a spectacle of sheer size but also serve pivotal ecological and cultural roles, anchoring the lush landscapes of Senegal.

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Most Common Plants

In Senegal, you can find Sweet basil, Paperflower, Mango tree, Lemon, Baobab, and more! There are 1,010 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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