Scientific Name
Agave spp.
Common Name
Century plant

SKIN IRRITATION SEVERE!

Characteristics

Family
Agavaceae
Plant Description
Perennial with long, strap-like basal leaves, often thick and succulent; flowers and fruits terminal on a long, naked stem; flowers white, cream-colored, yellow.
Origin
USA, Mexico.
Where Found
Houseplant, hardy species in landscape as cultivated ornamental.
Mode
Dermatitis.
Poisonous Part
Plant sap from leaves.
Symptoms
Skin irritation. Immediate burning and redness with developing blisters.
Toxic Principle
Unknown.
Severity
SKIN IRRITATION SEVERE!

"Poisonous Plants of North Carolina," Dr. Alice B. Russell, Department of Horticultural Science; Dr. James W. Hardin, Botany; Dr. Larry Grand, Plant Pathology, and Dr. Angela Fraser, Family and Consumer Sciences, North Carolina State University. All Pictures Copyright @1997Alice B. Russell, James W. Hardin, Larry Grand. Computer programming Miguel A. Buendia; graphics Brad Capel.

Disclaimer: The list of poisonous plants on this web site does not necessarily include every poisonous plant that is known, or that might be found in an urban landscape or home. North Carolina State University does not advise eating any of the plants included in this web site. The information concerning edibility is taken from the literature, and the degree of reliability is unknown. We discourage the use of any of these plants for self medication. In cases of accidental exposure or ingestion, contact the Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222.

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