Deadly Plants Lurk in Open Spaces and Backyards by Mary Mullagiri, Thames Christian College

Among the most recognised plants, these few are the most deadliest as well as the most common. This means that children are more often than not tempted to eat these and could suffer severe symptoms that will, if not treated quickly, could result in death.

Atropa Belladona is more commonly referred to as Deadly Nightshade. It has dark blue-purple berries that are mistaken for blueberries. These are tempting to children as they do not look harmless, but a more concerning fact is that these children may not stop from eating too many as they are known to have a mildly sweet flavor. Nightshade contains Atropine that can cause a variety of symptoms from heart palpitations to hallucinations and other such symptoms. These are more commonly found in back gardens and forests rather than around homes, but can still be seen more often than not.

Another such plant is the English Yew. It has small, long, thin and dark green leaves along its branches. It also has bright red berries that have an aril structure. This tree has taxane alkaloids that can be used as anti-cancer drugs. However, when children eat any part of this tree, particularly berries, they end up having symptoms such as vomitting, convulsions and abdominal pains among the myriads of other, much more sinister symptoms.

Finally, Oleanders are also very common and deadly. Nerium Oleanders are bushes that have long, thin leaves and white, pink or peach flowers. They are beautiful, and as such are planted in parks and gardens. However, this also means they are easily available to children. They contain poisons classified as cardiac glycosides that cause severe heart issues, diarrhea and vomitting among other such symptoms. Just one leaf can cause a child to pass away if untreated in time.

Due to other plants like these, parents and guardians are advised to be careful which plants they plant in their gardens and what their children are eating. However, because of nearby hospitals and accessible medical help, as long as individuals are careful, they will be fine. In any case, it's better to be informed.