Category: Plant safety

According to the ASPCA, the autograph tree (*Clusia rosea*) is highly toxic to both people and pets, with the fruit being the most dangerous part. While this ornamental evergreen is known for its distinct paddle-shaped leaves, a common point of curiosity is whether its fruit is safe to consume. So, can you eat the fruit of an autograph tree? The answer is a firm and unequivocal no.

According to the ASPCA, snake plants are toxic to both pets and humans if ingested. While this popular houseplant, scientifically known as Dracaena trifasciata, is a favorite for its air-purifying qualities and low-maintenance nature, it is not safe for consumption. The plant contains saponins, a chemical compound that is poisonous when chewed or swallowed, and can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress.

According to the ASPCA, snake plants (Dracaena trifasciata) contain toxic compounds called saponins, making them harmful if ingested by humans or animals. Therefore, any information on how to consume snake plants is extremely misleading and dangerous, as this popular houseplant should never be eaten.

While cultivated globally as a popular ornamental houseplant, the Ming Aralia, or Polyscias fruticosa, has a complicated relationship with edibility. Though traditionally consumed in certain regions of Southeast Asia, its sap contains irritating compounds, and the plant is widely considered toxic, especially to pets.

While traditionally used for its medicinal properties, consuming the leaves of the plant known as Leaf of Life (*Kalanchoe pinnata*) is generally considered unsafe for internal consumption due to its cardiac glycoside content. This article explores the important safety risks and discusses the traditional ways people have utilized this plant's leaves.

Used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, the chirchita plant (*Achyranthes aspera*) is prized for its numerous healing properties. However, its safety for consumption, especially without proper guidance, is a complex topic that requires careful consideration of its traditional uses versus potential risks.

Across the multiple genera of plants commonly known as elephant ears, most species contain sharp, needle-like calcium oxalate crystals and other irritants that are toxic if ingested raw. Therefore, understanding the crucial distinctions between edible and ornamental varieties is essential for anyone considering cooking with their foliage.

Despite its charming name and ornamental appeal, the fruit of the Apple of Peru (*Nicandra physalodes*) is considered toxic and is not safe for human consumption. This plant belongs to the nightshade family, which includes many other poisonous species.

Every part of the blackthorn plant, with the notable exception of the ripe fruit flesh, is known to contain toxic compounds called cyanogenic glycosides. A clear understanding of what makes the blackthorn plant poisonous is essential for anyone encountering this common hedgerow shrub.

All parts of the cherry laurel plant, *Prunus laurocerasus*, contain toxic compounds called cyanogenic glycosides that release deadly hydrogen cyanide when ingested. Given this potent danger, can we eat cherry laurel? The simple and unambiguous answer is a resounding no.