Watch Out! 11 Poisonous Plants Found In Minnesota
Spring is here, warmer weather is around the corner, and here are 11 poisonous plants you should watch out for in Minnesota.
Minnesota is a beautiful place, especially when it comes to exploring the great outdoors. Many people love to hike, run, walk the dogs, fish, or just be in the sun in general. However, when you're enjoying outside, there's a good chance you could be exposed to some of the poisonous plants in the state.
The crazy thing about poisonous plants is that most look friendly and appear harmless. The best way to prevent plant poisoning is to become familiar with the plants. There are many plants to watch out for according to Pro Gardening Tips.
Let's take a look and check out 11 of the most poisonous plants in the North Star State (I'll go over both the common name and the scientific name):
Poison Hemlock (Conium Maculatum)
Not only is this plant invasive, it is also very poisonous. While it's super common in the state, there are records of it being found throughout the state. The plant contains the alkaloid compound conniine which causes neuromuscular blockages, muscular paralysis, and renal failure. It looks very similar to parsley, and can even kill livestock.
Water Hemlock (Cicuta Maculata)
A close relative of poison hemlock, but more deadly as it is considered the most dangerous plant in North America. Cicutoxin can be found most concentrated in the roots, but it is also present throughout the plant. This one causes violent and painful convulsions and even death.
Buckthorn (Rhamnus Cathartica)
One of the most abundant and harmful forest invasive species across Minnesota. It can be found in early spring around wooded areas and the edges of fields. The plant can even tolerate a wide range of soil types and contaminants. The berries on this plant have a "cathartic” effect on the digestion system.
Poison Oak (Toxixodendron Diversilobum)
The name says it all, as this plant can be found along creek beds, fences, and other areas around the state. Exposure to this plant results in blisters, rashes, and swelling of the skin. Both people and livestock can be affected.
Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias Incarnata)
It's one of the rarest varieties of milkweed, however, it is commonly grown in wetland habitats. The sap in the milkweed is toxic to animals and can poison both dogs and cats.
Nightshade (Solanaceae)
Commonly found in yards, fields, shorelines, and vacant lots, the berries on these bad boys can make you very sick if eaten in quantities.
Poison Sumac (Toxicodendron Vernix)
This plant is commonly found outdoors. Exposure can cause an allergic skin reaction. Blisters can be caused as a reaction and could become infected.
Wild Parsnip (Pastinaca Sativa)
This plant can most commonly be found along the roadside, and on railroad tracks. When the sap of the wild parsnip comes in contact with the skin in the sunlight, it can cause chemical burns that can look like a rash with blistering and discoloration of the skin.
Stinging Nettle (Uritica Dioica)
It can grow up to 72" tall and can be found in riverbanks, along fences, in ditches along the road, and can even be found in orchards and vineyards. They can be easily brushed against and will cause a burning sensation.
Grecian Foxglove (Digitalis Lanata)
This plant can grow anywhere from roadways, to yards, to meadows, and in the forest. The plant is toxic to humans and animals and can affect cardiovascular, neurologic, and gastrointestinal systems.
Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron Radicans)
If poison oak made the list, you knew this one would too. It can be found all over Minnesota and causes an itchy and painful rash.
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