Poisonous Houseplants for Sale - Buying & Growing Guide

Myths would have you believe that the Dieffenbachia is deadly and should be avoided, but this is not the case. Ingestion of the plant in most cases only produces mild symptoms, and in the worst cases will result in symptoms that persist for several weeks or months. Fatalities associated with the Dieffenbachia are extremely unlikely.

While contact with the irritable substances contained within the Peace Lily can cause unpleasant symptoms, they are usually mild and do not cause long-lasting problems.

Oleander is one of the most toxic plants in existence. Ingesting just one leaf of this plant is enough to result in death. Even honey made from the nectar of an Oleander contains dangerous levels of toxins, and smoke inhalation from burning Oleander can also cause poisoning. It is poisonous to both humans and animals and has been used historically to induce abortions, as a means of suicide, and also intentional poisoning in criminal cases. Oleander is also used in animal poisons, such as rat poison, which illustrates just how harmful accidental consumption of Oleander could be.

Oleander poisoning results in a wide range of symptoms, not all of which will be present in every case. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, seizures, loss of consciousness, headaches, blurred vision, drowsiness, rash, and an irregular heartbeat.

Even if you have pets or children who aren’t in the habit of chewing your plants, you would be well advised to refrain from growing Oleander due to the severity of the toxicity levels should an accident occur.

Children and pets are most commonly affected by this plant. Symptoms typically include lip, tongue, and throat irritation, but external soft tissue can also be affected if you are handling the plant without protective gloves. The toxicity level is not considered to be life-threatening, and incidents with this plant are usually mild. In very rare cases, ingestion of the calcium oxalate crystals can cause the throat to swell, which may interfere with breathing.

Philodendrons are considered to be mildly toxic, with serious side effects extremely unlikely. Very large amounts of the plant would have to be eaten for it to result in anything more than a tummy ache, especially in an adult. In very rare cases, pets may experience severe side effects from ingesting this plant, such as difficulty swallowing or breathing if the sharp calcium oxalate crystals have caused burning or swelling in the throat.

The level of poisoning will depend on the amount of the plant ingested or the sensitivity of the individual who comes into contact with a damaged plant. Where many vines were ingested by cows, reports found the animals to be sick for a few days, but they quickly made a full recovery. In humans who have eaten the berries of the plant, there have been reports of convulsions or even comas. However, the berries are very bitter tasting, and it is unlikely that anyone would eat an amount large enough to cause these results. The plants are poisonous to humans, dogs, cats, and cattle (Canadian Biodiversity Information Facility).

This plant is highly toxic and dangerous. When ingested, resulting symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, paralysis, seizures, coma, increased thirst, increased urination, yellowing of the skin and gums, and bruising. Ingestion of this plant will typically lead to liver damage and even liver failure and death, so it is imperative to seek professional help from a doctor or veterinarian if any human or pet is suspected of having ingested a part of this plant.

Like other plants in the Araceae family, you would have to ingest large amounts of the ZZ Plant in order for it to cause serious damage. Most likely effects of coming into contact with the sap of the plant are oral irritation, stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin redness or swelling. It would be wise to handle the plant wearing gloves if you are pruning or repotting it, as its sap could irritate your skin. At the very least, wash your hands after touching the plant to prevent sap on your skin from making its way to your mouth or eyes. However, toxic levels of this plant are mild, and serious side effects are extremely unlikely.

Toxicity levels of the Caladium Plant are quite mild, and large amounts would have to be ingested to affect an adult. Unpleasant symptoms are more likely in children and pets who would be more sensitive to the effects of the calcium oxalate. Caladium poisoning, in any case, is usually mild, though in very rare cases, ingesting the plant could cause swelling of the throat, which, in turn, would lead to difficulty breathing. Typically, the side effects of ingesting this plant include irritation of the lips, tongue, and mouth, while side effects of handling the plant can include contact dermatitis, redness, and swelling of the skin.

The plant is poisonous to both humans and pets, but problems caused by it are usually mild. If you suspect your pet has ingested Caladium, you may notice the animal has excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, and they may vomit. You can ease symptoms by offering drinks of water or milk, but if symptoms persist, you should seek a vet’s advice.