Toxic Plants Potentially Harmful to Children

Young children often have a natural curiosity and worrisome propensity to try to sample various house and outdoor plants. The following list of toxic (poisonous, possibly dangerous) plants serves to help the concerned individual identify possible toxic danger spots in and around the home. Be aware that some plants may have several different common names that differ by the region you reside - we have included other known, alternative common names that are used in the U.S. There may also be toxic plants in your home or garden that we may not be familiar with that have not been included in this list. Choose plants wisely! Though this list is as thorough as our research would allow, it is by no means a complete, definitive list.  Keep any favorites (considered toxic) out of the reach of children - which must include meticulous maintenance to prevent any lower or stray leaves or berries, etc. from being accessible to curious little hands.

       Exposure to plant toxins can originate from simple dermal (skin) contact or ingestion of whole or parts of plants. It is also possible, yet less common, to be exposed to toxic fumes from the burning of certain toxic plants - be careful when burning any stray brush. Be aware that individuals could also potentially have an unrelated allergic reaction  to ANY plants or their parts, either toxic OR benign (harmless).

       Symptoms of exposure to toxic plants may vary from mild to fatal depending upon the individual plant specimen, amount of exposure/ ingestion of the individual plant, a person's individual body chemistry, and the age of the individual - young children and the elderly tend to have greater susceptiblity, therefore they may have more serious reactions. When contact or ingestion of any of the following listed plants is suspected, immediately call the National or Local Poison Control Center in your area for advice on administering the proper first aid. Have the name of the specific plant ready for the PCC operator - knowing the source of the poisoning speeds the administration of the necessary medical treatment and could save a life! Wild plants and mushrooms must always be suspect unless you are familiar with them. Be prepared to collect a sample of a suspect plant or mushroom (if possible) in a paper bag for proper identification to assist emergency medical personnel.

CNY Poison Control Center (Onondaga/Syracuse)   1-315-476-4766

Outside Onondaga County   1-800-252-5655

National PCC Hotline    1-800-222-1222

For your reference,

We have prepared a list of plants.

The file is in pdf format and requires Acrobat Reader.