The most dangerous plants in the garden almost never give the idea of being it. Some are so common that they go unnoticed, mixing between the colors and scents of domestic green. Yet, behind that quiet air, there is often a threat that can seriously put those who meet them seriously, are human beings or pets.
We tend to think about the garden Like a small corner of the peace: flowers are grown, blankets spread to sunbathe, let the dogs run or play children. Yet, precisely among those plants chosen perhaps due to their lively appearance or climate resistance, the most dangerous pitfalls could hide.
It often happens not to know at all the true nature of what grows a few steps from the front door. Someone poisonous garden plantsin fact, they are chosen in the nurseries for their beauty, without thinking too much about the possible risks they involve. And this becomes a problem, especially if curious beings move in the garden, such as children or animals.
Perhaps it would be worth stopping for a moment and looking with different eyes what grows in the garden. Wondering: “This plant that seems so graceful … is it really, or is it just pretending?”
Digitalis, Oleandro and Cicuta: the three names to remember
Among the Most common toxic plants in Italian gardensthere are some who deserve particular attention. Not only for their danger, but also for the frequency with which they are chosen as ornamental plants.
The Digitalis purpureaalso known as digital, is one of the most emblematic examples. Its Campanula flowers, of a bright purple, are an irresistible visual call. However, each part of the plant contains cardiac glycosides, substances capable of interfering with the heartbeat. It is mistakenly believed that it is dangerous only if ingested, but direct contact to cause even intense skin irritations is enough.
Then there is theoleanderperhaps among the most loved garden plants for its resistance and for spectacular flowering. But under that colorful zest there is a content of oleandrin, a powerful poison that affects the nervous and cardiac system. The sap can cause burns or dermatitis, and even the fumes released by its combustion are toxic. That’s why it should be handled only with gloves and mask, even better if kept remotely from the places of passage.
Finally, the notorious hemlock. Yes, precisely that rendered famous by ancient history. It grows spontaneously in many green areas, has a rather harmless appearance, with small white flowers arranged in an umbrella. But don’t be fooled: it is one of the most poisonous plants in Europe. Its effects are devastating if ingested, but also simple contact with the skin can cause violent allergic reactions. Identifying it is not easy, because it looks a lot like wild parsley.
Poisonous garden plants: because knowing them is essential
Who has a green space know how important it is to take care of it. However, aesthetic beauty should never come before safety. Someone dangerous plants for children and animals They can grow even without being planted voluntarily, such as weeds or inheritance of old crops.
Here is a short list of behaviors to be adopted:
- Observe Well the plants in the garden, especially spontaneous or little known ones.
- Avoid direct contact Without gloves with leaves, sap or suspicious flowers.
- Inquire on each new plant before inserting it into its own green space.
- In case of doubt, consult a nurseryman o o expert botanist.
Among the plants to be monitored there are also the ricino (famous for its highly toxic seeds), the tasso (with very attractive but mortal red berries), the datura (also known as Stramonio, toxic and hallucinogenic) and the belladonna. All united by a feature: appearance deceives.
It is curious to note that many of these species have been used for centuries in traditional medicine or in Ancient rituals. But the fact that they have a long story does not make them less risky today, on the contrary. If present in the garden, they must be managed carefully or removed safely.
Better prevent: how to make the garden safe without giving up beauty
Have a beautiful and safe garden It is not impossible, just a pinch of awareness is enough. Some toxic plants can be replaced by more harmless but equally decorative alternatives. For example, instead of the Olandro you can choose flowery shrubs such as lavender or hibiscus, who are also friends of pollinating insects.
The prevention It also passes through small daily gestures: regularly cutting spontaneous herbs, do not leave parts of plants pruned around, monitor children while playing. And if you have a pet, watch out for what sniffs or chews as she wasters between the bushes.
If in doubt, it is always better be prudent. A garden should be a place of peace, not a green trap. And with a little attention, it can really become it. Nature should be loved, but also known: because it is precisely when you really know that you can live in harmony with it, without dangers hidden behind each leaf.
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