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Top 20 Most Common Toxic Plants in Tunisia

Tunisia's warm climate, seasonal rainfall, and arable lands foster diverse flora, including Bird of paradise, Sago palm, and Evergreen spindle, which are among the region's toxic plants. These species exploit the favorable conditions for growth, raising ecological and health concerns due to their toxicity. The prevalence of such plants necessitates careful monitoring and management to mitigate potential risks to the human and animal populations.

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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
Sago palm
2. 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
Castor bean
3. 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
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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
Golden dewdrops
5. 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
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
Brazilian peppertree
7. 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
Bearded iris
8. Bearded iris
Bearded iris is known to cause contact dermatitis in some individuals. The most commonly reported symptom is minor skin irritation, typically lasting only a few minutes. This can result from contact with the seeds, roots, or sap of this plant. Furthermore, all parts of bearded iris are toxic when ingested, especially the roots. Symptoms typically including minor or moderate burning sensations, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fever. This plant is most often encountered in a garden context, where it is planted as an ornamental.
Toxic to:
Human & Pets
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
Jerusalem cherry
10. 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
Sun spurge
11. Sun spurge
Sun spurge (Euphorbia helioscopia) is a winter annual that grows along the ground in a variety of locations from gardens to wastelands. It features distinctive red colored stems with toothed leaves that emit a toxic milky sap when cut or torn. Pale yellow flowers bloom from spring to summer and give way to fruit. This plant is considered a weed.
Toxic to:
Human
Pokeweed
12. 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
Cuckoo pint
13. 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
Calla lily
14. 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
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
African Milk Bush
16. African Milk Bush
African Milk Bush is rarely cultivated in the United States but is found growing in tropical Africa. The slow-growing succulent produces branches from the base, each one filled with a milky sap. The sap is poisonous is ingested and is also a skin irritant.
Durian
17. 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.
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 hyacinth
19. 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
20. 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
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More Plants in Tunisia

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Most Common Flowers

Tunisia's climate and soil provide a conducive environment for a rich variety of native flowers. Renowned for its visual splendor, the region boasts the resplendent blooms of , , and . These flowers hold great symbolism and ecological importance, contributing to the region's natural beauty. Trustworthy sources validate the significance of these flowers in Tunisia's flora.

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Most Common Fruits

Tunisia's warm Mediterranean climate and fertile soil provide an optimal environment for a variety of local fruit plants. With sunny days and modest rainfall, the conditions are ideal to nurture important cultural staples such as , , and . These fruits not only bear economic value but are also deeply embedded in Tunisia’s culinary traditions and often celebrated in local festivals, signifying their vital role in Tunisian heritage.

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Most Common Trees

Tunisia, with its Mediterranean climate and diverse soil conditions, provides a thriving environment for numerous native trees. Among the emblematic trees of this region are the , , and . These trees hold significant cultural and ecological value, providing shade, habitat for wildlife, and contributing to the country's rich biodiversity. They also play a role in local traditions and are valued for their medicinal properties. Overall, Tunisia's native trees contribute to the country's natural heritage and are essential in maintaining its ecological balance.

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Most Common Weeds

In Tunisia's warm Mediterranean climate, abundant sunshine and mild winters create a hospitable environment for various garden weeds. These opportunistic species, such as , , and , are commonplace, challenging gardeners who strive to maintain pristine landscapes. These weeds often proliferate rapidly, outcompeting desirable plants for resources and complicating garden management throughout the region.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Tunisia's lush northern reaches are graced with a Mediterranean climate, fostering dense forests and wetlands, whereas its central and southern parts are predominantly arid. Towering within these diversely hospitable environments are formidable trees, embodying ecological majesty and historical narratives. The , , and stand as natural monuments, their lofty canopies piercing the heavens, an enduring testament to the country's rich arboreal heritage.

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Most Common Plants

In Tunisia, you can find Lemon, Sweet basil, Olive, Common coleus, Baby sun rose, and more! There are 1,155 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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