Tag: Toxic garden weeds

Over 600 species of the *Ranunculus* genus, which includes creeping buttercups, are known to contain toxins. This is why you should avoid touching creeping buttercups with your bare skin, as handling the plant can cause a painful rash and blisters.

Despite their bright, cheerful appearance, all parts of the creeping buttercup plant (Ranunculus repens) are toxic to humans and animals. The plant contains a compound called ranunculin, which breaks down into the poisonous irritant protoanemonin when the plant is crushed or chewed. Never attempt to eat creeping buttercup flowers or any part of the plant.