Deadly plant that must be avoided in UK gardens

UK garden enthusiasts are being cautioned about a particularly dangerous plant that is as lethal as it is stunning. A specialist has pinpointed what she deems the most hazardous plant in Britain, which can be fatal if consumed and causes severe skin irritation upon contact.

The oleander, known for its striking pink blooms, should not be cultivated in gardens frequented by children or pets, advises MyJobQuote.co.uk's Fiona Jenkins.

"The oleander plant is the UK's most dangerous plant due to it being very toxic for both humans and animals," she explained. "This plant is very poisonous, and if you ingest even a very small amount of this plant, it can result in death. Physical contact with the plant can cause allergic reactions and severe skin irritations. It's important to keep oleanders away from children and pets."

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For those whose gardens are a playground for pets or a haven for children, it's wise to avoid this beguiling yet deadly flora. Oleanders are identifiable by their clusters of funnel-shaped blossoms in hues of pink, white, red, coral, or yellow, reports the Mirror.

Foxgloves, another visually appealing species found in British woodlands and a popular choice for domestic gardens, also pose a risk. Fiona cautions that foxgloves contain toxic cardiac glycosides, which can cause "serious poisoning", as reported by Nottinghamshire Live.

She also warned about the perils of deadly nightshade, a plant characterised by its purple and green flowers and smooth oval leaves. She explained: "It features several green berries that then ripen to a black colour. Every part of this plant is toxic, and the berries are particularly poisonous."

Eating these berries can lead to a range of dangerous side effects. Fiona has highlighted the dangers lilies pose to pets, emphasising that every part of the lily plant is toxic and should be avoided at all costs.

Her caution was stark: "Unfortunately, this can be fatal. It's important to keep your pets away from lily plants."

Fiona continued: "Lily pollen can easily fall onto your pet's fur, which they may then ingest when they groom themselves."