Scientific Name
Arisaema dracontium
Common Name
Green dragon

CAUSES SEVERE PAIN IN THE MOUTH IF EATEN!

Characteristics

Family
Araceae
Plant Description
Herbaceous perennial with a single, curved leaf divided into several leaflets along one side of the leaf axis; flowers green, small and inconspicuous in a slender, elongated cluster (spadix) surrounded by a narrow, erect, pointed leaf (spathe).
Origin
USA, NC.
Distribution
Mountains, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Where Found
Forest or natural area in moist woods, along creeks; landscape as cultivated herbaceous perennial.
Mode
Ingestion.
Poisonous Part
All parts.
Symptoms
Irritation and swelling of lips, tongue, and throat.
Toxic Principle
Calcium oxalate crystals and other toxins.
Severity
CAUSES SEVERE PAIN IN THE MOUTH IF EATEN!

"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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