Home Health & Life 6 Types of Houseplants You Didn’t Know Were Toxic: A Guide for...

Health & Life

6 Types of Houseplants You Didn’t Know Were Toxic: A Guide for Home Gardeners

17 June, 2025

Golden Rain Tree

The scientific name for the Golden Rain Tree is Jatropha podagrica, but it is commonly known as the six-star cactus, mountain lotus, and oil-bearing taro in folk culture.

The tree’s bark and leaves are believed to have medicinal properties when used appropriately, treating hair loss, mouth ulcers, and skin ailments. However, caution is advised as the stem, tubers, and seeds contain the toxic substance Curcin, which can cause throat irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. This is especially important if you have young children who tend to put things in their mouths, as ingestion of these parts can lead to poisoning.

Chinese Evergreen

The Chinese Evergreen is a popular houseplant known for its air-purifying qualities and ease of care. Its attractive appearance also makes it a favorite choice for indoor decoration. However, it is important to be cautious when handling this plant as all parts of it, from root to tip, contain toxic compounds. The sap contains andromedotoxin and arbutin glucoside, which can cause tongue numbness, redness, and a burning sensation if chewed or swallowed, leading to an inability to speak due to throat stiffness.

Echinocactus Grusonii

The Echinocactus Grusonii, commonly known as the Golden Barrel Cactus, is a popular choice for plant enthusiasts due to its attractive flowers and ability to thrive in low light conditions. While its spiny exterior is a notable feature, the real danger lies in its milky-white sap, which can cause a burning sensation and irritation upon contact. If ingested, it can lead to a weakened immune system, and contact with the eyes can result in blindness or reduced vision.

Angel’s Trumpet

Angel’s Trumpet, also known as Datura, is a fragrant and beautiful night-blooming flower with many colorful varieties. While it enhances the aesthetics of any home garden, caution is advised due to the presence of the toxic compound Alkaloid in its bulbs. Ingestion of this compound can lead to digestive issues such as bloating, nausea, and diarrhea.

Rhododendron

The Rhododendron, a common houseplant during the Tet holiday, boasts vibrant blooms when in season. While it has medicinal properties when used in the right dosage, such as reducing pain, lowering heart rate, and reducing blood pressure, it is crucial to handle it with care. Ingesting its toxic compounds can lead to excessive salivation, vomiting, dizziness, ringing in the ears, and breathing difficulties. Even a small amount of its leaves can cause severe poisoning in children, so extra caution is necessary if you have young ones around.

Pothos

Pothos, a member of the Araceae family, thrives in both soil and water and is valued for its air-purifying qualities. However, it contains the toxic substance Calcium Oxalate in its leaves, stems, and especially the petioles. Ingesting any part of the plant can cause a burning sensation in the mouth, throat, and intestines, and severe cases may lead to coma, anaphylactic shock, and even death. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution when growing Pothos, especially if you have children or pets.