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A Witch's Brew of Plants

© Howard Deutch

Some plants are bewitching in that their beauty hides malevolence. Then there are the mushrooms, the Death Cap and the Destroying Angel, which at first glance look like any ordinary whitish mushroom in the woods but are deadly, as the names imply. It seems appropriate for Halloween to examine some plants that harbor deviltry behind a pretty exterior.

 

Aloe vera is used in topical cosmetics yet the juice of the plant can cause contact dermatitis in some people. With Christmas coming up, mistletoe may be hung over doorways in the hope of catching some fair young lady by surprise. American mistletoe, Phoradendron flavescens, has deadly berries if eaten. American holly, Ilex opaca, also seen around this time, has poisonous berries as well. The bulbs of a number of plants are also poisonous. These include Tulips, Daffodils, Narcissus , Autumn Crocus, Snowdrops, and Siberian scilla. Sensitive people may also contract dermatitis from the foliage of these plants. Luckily such people are are few and far between.

Dumb Cane, Dieffenbachia, can cause painful mouth and throat swelling if eaten. It received its name from the inability to even talk in severe cases. Keep out of the reach of children or better yet keep out if very young children are present. The seeds of some Yews are also toxic. Their bright red berries may attract young children. We can't be paranoid about all the many plants that have toxic qualities but should use caution and be watchful with the very young. Four children have survived my two Hicksii Yews without any problems despite all their berries. I do not know if the berries of those Yews were toxic.

A toxic alkaloid is present in Amaryllis bulbs as a counter to its large, blowsy flowers. The full name, Amaryllis Belladonna, is a hint as to what may be hidden within. I had a couple of these last winter to add some color to a dreary period. They are really too gross by themselves and need to be surrounded by other tall somethings. My daughter Ann's Girl Scout name was Bracken. Bracken, Pteridium aquilinium, is a most hardy fern. It seems to grow anywhere. Ann naturally brought some home and planted it on the north side of the house where I now mow the edges of it to keep it contained. The young fronds, which contain significant quantities of carcinogens, are

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