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Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Tanzania

Tanzania's diverse ecosystems, ranging from tropical rainforests to savannas, create a hospitable milieu for various flora, including toxic species. Factors such as climate variability, ecological niches, and evolutionary pressures have supported the prevalence of poisonous vegetation. Notably, Golden dewdrops, Castor bean, and Crown Flower contribute to the spectrum of toxic plants found in the region, posing potential risks to both 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
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
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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Crown Flower
4. 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
Flame lily
5. 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
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
Bellyache bush
7. Bellyache bush
Jatropha gossypiifolia, commonly known as bellyache bush, black physicnut or cotton-leaf physicnut, is a species of flowering plant in the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. The species is native to Mexico, South America, Gujarat State (India) and the Caribbean islands. It is a declared noxious weed in Puerto Rico and is naturalised in northern Australia, including Queensland where it is listed as a Class 2 declared pest plant. It grows to 2.5 to 4 m high. The three lobed leaves are purple and sticky when young and become bright green with age. The small red flowers with yellow centres appear in clusters. These are followed by cherry-sized seed pods that are poisonous. Powdery mildew fungal disease was reported. There are many common names for Jatropha gossypiifolia including: bellyache-bush, black physicnut, and cotton-leaf physicnut in English; pinon negro, pinon colorado, and tua-tua in Spanish; medicinier noir and medicinier rouge in French; mamoninha and peao-roxo in Brazil; jarak merah and sibidigua in India.
Toxic to:
Human
Mexican prickly poppy
8. Mexican prickly poppy
Argemone mexicana has been naturalized in many parts of the world. It is extremely tolerant of drought and poor soil, but is poisonous to grazing animals. Its seed pods secrete a pale yellow latex when cut open. In India, the mexican prickly poppy is used in the Holika Dahan festival, in which adults and children worship by offering flowers.
Toxic to:
Human
Caribbean copper plant
9. 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
Bird of paradise
10. 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
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
Brazilian peppertree
12. 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
Prostrate sandmat
13. 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
Palay rubbervine
14. 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
Dieffenbachia
15. 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
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
Soda-apple nightshade
17. Soda-apple nightshade
True to this plant's reputation, consumption of soda-apple nightshade 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
Devil's-backbone
18. Devil's-backbone
Devil's-backbone (Euphorbia tithymaloides) is a succulent species of spurge native to North and Central America. It has been planted in gardens since the 17th century and valued for its unique appearance and its habit of attracting hummingbirds. However, nearly all parts of this species are toxic and should not be consumed.
Toxic to:
Human
Turkey berry
19. 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
Durian
20. Durian
Durian (Durio zibethinus) is a tropical plant from Southeast Asia. It bears large, spiny, edible fruit which has become a major export crop of the region. The fruit is best known for its pungent smell, which provokes opposing reactions, ranging from near-addiction to revulsion. In some areas, it has even been banned from public transport and hotels.
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More Plants in Tanzania

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Most Common Flowers

Tanzania, known for its diverse habitats, has a climate and soil conducive to the growth of various native flowers. The region's rich biodiversity provides a thriving environment for , , and to bloom resplendently. These flowers not only showcase visual beauty but also hold cultural and ecological importance. However, further research from trustworthy sources is needed to explore the specifics of each flower and their significance in Tanzania's ecosystem.

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Most Common Fruits

Tanzania's tropical climate, fertile soils, and consistent rainfall create an ideal environment for cultivating a variety of local fruit plants. Native flora like , , and thrive here, deeply rooted in Tanzanian culinary traditions and cultural practices. These plants not only contribute to the country's food diversity but also play a significant role in the local economy, nourishing communities and sustaining livelihoods.

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Most Common Trees

Tanzania's diverse climate and varied soil conditions provide a favorable environment for a range of native trees. Among the emblematic trees found in this region are , , and . Each of these trees holds significant cultural and ecological value within Tanzania. They contribute to the country's rich biodiversity and ecosystem health, while also playing a vital role in local traditions and practices.

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Most Common Weeds

Tanzania's warm climate and seasonal rains create a hospitable environment for various garden weeds. The most common ones that vex gardeners include , , and , which spread rapidly and often compete with crops for nutrients and space. These prolific invaders challenge both small-scale garden landscapes and larger agricultural settings, requiring regular and mindful weed management practices to maintain plant health and soil integrity.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Tanzania's lush landscapes, kissed by equatorial rainfalls and interspersed with montane regions, are nature's skyscrapers nurturing grounds. Among these, , , and stand as verdant giants, piercing the canopy and pointing towards the heavens. These architectural wonders of nature hold ecological and historical significance, embodying the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of the land. The towering trees of Tanzania are testament to the perfect harmony of climate and terrain that seeds such colossal growth.

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Most Common Plants

In Tanzania, you can find Red frangipani, Royal poinciana, Tropical almond, Yellow oleander, Chinese hibiscus, and more! There are 830 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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