11 Poisonous Plants in Minnesota to Be Aware of
24.08.2024 - 03:46
/ balconygardenweb.com
/ Ralph Astley
Full of wetlands, lakes, and forests, Minnesota is a thriving habitat for all types of vegetation, including poisonous plants! As you gear up to enjoy autumn’s natural magic, so do these plants that come alive with their flame-hued foliage, berries, and blooms.
And some of them are more dangerous than you think! Let’s look at these toxic plants that inhabit the Star of the North and learn to identify them so you may enjoy fall itch and harm-free!
Botanical Name: Toxicodendron radicans
Ever heard the saying, “Leaves of three, let it be?” You can thank poison ivy for this ominous reputation it has given any plant with three leaves! Found freely in wooded areas, trails, and gardens all over Minnesota, you’ll easily spot it with its shiny three-leaf clusters that turn orange and red in fall. And when you see it, stay far away to avoid its rash-inducing oils.
Also, be cautious of direct or indirect contact through pets or clothing, and wash the affected area immediately with soap and water. Poison ivy can be annoying, but it’s not deadly. It can cause a severe allergic reaction in some people, though. Check out all these plants that look like poison ivy.
Botanical Name: Asclepias incarnata
You will often spot swamp milkweed in areas with moist, nutrient-rich soils. It’s easily recognizable by its tall, stout stems and large, hairy leaves. It even has clusters of pink or purple flowers.
Its sap contains a milky substance that can irritate sensitive skin. In the fall, it produces seeds that can cause digestive issues if ingested.
Botanical Name: Toxicodendron vernix
With white, berry-like fruits, poison sumac’s leaves turn bright red in fall. Native to the swampy, marshy wetlands of this region, this shrub can grow up to 10 feet tall