9 Terrifying Plants That Are Actually Quite Commonplace

1. Giant Hogweed

This invasive plant can grow up to 20 feet tall and is often found near streams and rivers. Contact with its sap can cause severe burns and blistering, leading to long-term scarring and even permanent blindness if exposed to sunlight.

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2. Water Hemlock

Often mistaken for edible plants like wild parsnip or celery, water hemlock is one of the most toxic plants in North America. Ingesting even a small amount of its roots can lead to rapid onset seizures, respiratory failure, and death.

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3. Doll's Eyes

Found in woodland areas, the white berries of this plant contain cardiogenic toxins that can cause cardiac arrest if ingested. The berries' striking appearance, resembling human eyes, adds to the plant's eerie allure.

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4. Manchineel Tree

Native to tropical regions, the sap of the manchineel tree is so toxic that contact with it can cause severe skin irritation and blistering. Standing beneath the tree during rain can result in painful burns, earning it the nickname "tree of death."

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5. Castor Bean Plant

While castor oil derived from its seeds is widely used for its medicinal and industrial purposes, the seeds themselves contain ricin, a highly toxic protein. Ingesting just a few seeds can be lethal.

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6. Oleander

Commonly used in landscaping due to its attractive flowers and ability to thrive in various climates, all parts of the oleander plant are highly toxic if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, irregular heart rhythm, and even death.

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7. Foxglove

Despite its delicate appearance, foxglove contains digitalis glycosides, which can cause nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, seizures, and even death if ingested in large amounts.

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8. Angel's Trumpet

This ornamental plant, known for its large, trumpet-shaped flowers, contains alkaloids such as scopolamine and atropine. Ingesting any part of the plant can lead to delirium, paralysis, and respiratory failure.

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9. Deadly Nightshade

Found in wooded areas and along fences, deadly nightshade produces shiny black berries that are attractive but highly toxic. Ingesting even a small amount can lead to symptoms such as dilated pupils, hallucinations, convulsions, and death.

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