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Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Switzerland

Switzerland's diverse environmental conditions, including its temperate climate, varied altitudes, and rich soils, create a hospitable terrain for a wide array of flora, including Cow parsnip, Creeping buttercup, and Autumn crocus. The prevalence of toxic plants in the region raises ecological and public health concerns, necessitating awareness and appropriate management strategies.

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Most Common Toxic Plants
Cow parsnip
1. Cow parsnip
Cow parsnip (Heracleum sphondylium) is a species of flowering perennial herb related to parsley and fennel. Its specific epithet, "sphondylium," means "vertebrate," and references its segmented appearance. This species produces extremely large amounts of nectar and thus attracts many bees.
Toxic to:
Human
Creeping buttercup
2. Creeping buttercup
Creeping buttercup can be severely toxic to dogs; you should seek immediate veterinary attention if you believe your dog has eaten or come into contact with a plant of this type. All parts of these plants contain ranunculin, a toxin that is poisonous when swallowed and also can irritate skin, causing redness or itch. Ingestion symptoms ranging from excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and loss of appetite to paralysis, seizures, jaundice, spasms, collapse, or even death.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Common columbine
3. Common columbine
The common columbine is a tall, flowering plant, typically with a long stem and light purple flowers. The Latin specific name for the plant, "vulgaris," means "common," and it comes from the fact that the plants spread easily and grow in many places around Europe. Ancient Romans considered the common columbine to be sacred for the goddess, Venus.
Toxic to:
Human
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Autumn crocus
4. Autumn crocus
Autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale) is a flowering plant native to the coast of the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. Its flower stalks grow up after a period of time after its leaves die out, so you can see its flowers or leaves but never both. Consumption of autumn crocus is toxic and is particularly poisonous to cats. Autumn crocus is not the source of saffron. Saffron is produced by another species in the crocus family.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Bird of paradise
5. 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
Cuckoo pint
6. Cuckoo pint
Cuckoo pint (Arum maculatum) is a perennial that will grow to 51 cm tall. It blooms in spring with male and female flowers that spring be yellow or purple. Male flowers have tiny hairs to trap insects that are attracted by the scent of the blossoms. This entrapment covers the insect in pollen before it can escape to pollinate other flowers. Female flowers give way to bright red berries in summer that are highly poisonous.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Giant hogweed
7. Giant hogweed
Giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) is a very large, 2 to 5 m tall, herbaceous, flowering perennial with many amusing names - Giant Cow Parsley, Hogsbane, and even Giant Alien. However, names are the only thing funny about this plant - it is a phototoxic invasive species. In combination with light, its sap causes phytophotodermatitis, a serious skin inflammation with blistering and scarring which can last for up to several days.
Toxic to:
Human
Potato
8. 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
Hairy willowherb
9. Hairy willowherb
Hairy willowherb (Epilobium hirsutum) is a species of weed that is difficult to eradicate. It is not known to be toxic, but the sale of this plant or its seeds has been banned in some areas. This is because its dense, aggressive growth habits can crowd out and destroy other native beneficial plants.
Toxic to:
Human
Evergreen spindle
10. Evergreen spindle
Evergreen spindle(Euonymus japonicus) is a popular ornamental evergreen shrub with numerous cultivars. Due to its superb adaptability and decorative looks, evergreen spindle can be found in parks and gardens all over the world. Its flowers produce a lot of nectar, which makes this plant very attractive to bees.
Toxic to:
Human
February daphne
11. February daphne
The Daphne mezereum is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 1.5 m tall. Its leaves are soft, spirally arranged on the stems. The february daphne produces a bright red berry as the fruit which is extremely poisonous for humans.
Toxic to:
Human
Smoketree
12. Smoketree
Smoketree is a deciduous tree native to Southern Europe and Central China. The flowers of the smoketree are pinkish-purple and long-lasting. They grow in clusters along branches and give a smoky appearance to the tree when in bloom. In China, they are used as important fall decorations due to their foliage turn bright red in the fall.
Toxic to:
Human
Dieffenbachia
13. Dieffenbachia
Although commonly kept as houseplants, all parts of the dieffenbachia contain toxic compounds that are especially dangerous to children and pets.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Deadly nightshade
14. Deadly nightshade
Deadly nightshade or Atropa belladonna is true to its name; this plant, including the foliage, roots, and pretty blueberries, is extremely toxic and can cause death. It is especially toxic to small children, but also can be lethal for animals if ingested.
Toxic to:
Human
Common hyacinth
15. 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
Oleander
16. 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
Wild daffodil
17. Wild daffodil
Ingestion of any part of the wild daffodil (of the genus Narcissus pseudonarcissus) is extremely toxic for dogs and requires veterinary attention. All parts of these plants contain harmful toxins, and the bulbs usually store these toxins in the highest concentrations. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive drooling. If large quantities of plant material are eaten, dogs may experience weakness, tremors, seizures, arrhythmia, or even death.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
Striped barbados lily
18. 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
Common yew
19. Common yew
Common 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:
Pets
Christmas rose
20. Christmas rose
Christmas rose (Helleborus niger) is a flowering evergreen perennial plant that is often grown in ornamental gardens because it flowers in the winter. Planting christmas rose is particularly common in cottage garden styles. In the wild, christmas rose grows in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, and Croatia. This plant is considered somewhat difficult to grow and requires moist, alkaline-rich soil.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
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More Plants in Switzerland

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Most Common Flowers

Switzerland's diverse climate and fertile soil provide an ideal environment for the growth of indigenous flowers. Among the many beautiful blooms, three notable ones include , , and . These flowers captivate with their visual beauty and hold symbolic or ecological importance in the region. Precise information from reliable sources ensures the accuracy of these floral summaries.

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Most Common Fruits

Switzerland's temperate climate, combined with its fertile soil and varied topography, creates an ideal environment for cultivating a range of local fruit plants. Key among these are , , and , each integral to Swiss agricultural tradition and valued for its distinctive flavor and uses. These fruit plants, deeply woven into the fabric of Swiss culture, benefit from the careful balance of natural conditions, rendering the region's orchards both lucrative and ecologically significant.

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Most Common Trees

Switzerland's climate and soil conditions foster the growth of diverse native trees. Among them, , , and stand out as emblematic species. These trees hold cultural and ecological significance within the region. They play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity, providing habitats for various species, and adding natural beauty to the Swiss landscape. Their presence highlights the rich natural heritage of Switzerland and contributes to its sustainable development.

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Most Common Weeds

Switzerland's temperate climate with distinct seasons provides fertile ground for a variety of garden weeds. Among these, , , and are particularly prevalent, challenging gardeners with their hardy nature and rapid proliferation. These weeds often outcompete desired flora, necessitating diligent management and control strategies to maintain the health and aesthetics of Swiss gardens and landscapes.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Switzerland’s diverse landscapes, ranging from the Jura Mountains to the towering Alps and fertile valleys, provide an ideal habitat for a variety of tall tree species. Among these, the majestic , which punctuates the skyline, contributes significantly to the forest ecosystem. Similarly, the venerable stands as a testament to time with its historical resonance amidst the Swiss woodlands. Lastly, the impressive reaches skyward, playing a vital role in local biodiversity. Each species encapsulates the grandeur of Switzerland’s arboreal giants.

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Most Common Plants

In Switzerland, you can find Annual fleabane, English ivy, European beech, Bigleaf hydrangea, Oregano, and more! There are 5,269 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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