Dieffenbachia (also known as the Dumb Cane)
A popular houseplant with vibrant leaves, which can add a touch of tropical beauty to your space, but if consumed can cause intense mouth and throat irritation.
Sago Palm
Despite its name, this isn’t a palm at all, but a cycad. All parts of this plant, including the seeds, contain a toxin that affects the liver and nervous system.
Lillies
Arum Lily: If ingested, their sap can cause severe swelling in the throat or mouth.
Belladonna Lily: Watch out for the sap and bulb of this plant, especially around children. They can be quite toxic.
Peace Lily: With elegant white flowers and lush green leaves, it’s often chosen for its air purifying qualities. Unfortunately, if ingested, it can cause discomfort, irritation, and swelling of the mouth, throat, and digestive system.
Lily of the Valley: It might look charming, but beware! Its leaves and berries pack a poisonous punch, causing nausea and headaches.
Devil's Ivy
Loved for its trailing foliage and easy care, but it can be toxic if consumed. The sap can cause mouth and throat irritation, difficulty swallowing, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Euphorbia
The sap of these common plants can be a real pain—literally! It can also cause severe eye injuries. This genus includes Poinsettia – a Christmas favourite.
Philodendrons
Popular for their lush foliage, some species can cause mouth and throat irritation.
Hoya
Popular, cute houseplants causing twitching when eaten. The poison can also affect the liver and intestines.
Hyacinth
These fragrant flowers are lovely, but they contain some seriously toxic substances. It's best to avoid growing them indoors.
Narcissus
Lovely spring blooms but all Narcissus plants are toxic (including daffodils and jonquils). Their bulbs can also be mistaken for onions, so if storing them, make sure they are labelled!
Caladium
Often chosen for its beautifully coloured leaves – but the entire plant is toxic.
Monsterra (Swiss cheese plant)
General symptoms of poisoning are immediate and painful with blistering, hoarseness, irritation of the mouth.
Rubber tree plant
This popular indoor plant (along with its cousin Ficus Benjamina) is toxic if ingested and can also be irritating to the touch.
Remember, this list is not exhaustive, and there are many other poisonous house plants out there. If you're unsure about a specific plant, it's always a good idea to do some research or chat with a plant expert.
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