Scientific Name
Ficus benjamina
Common Name
Weeping fig, Benjamin tree, small-leaved rubber plant

SKIN IRRITATION MINOR, OR LASTING ONLY FOR A FEW MINUTES.

Characteristics

Family
Moraceae
Plant Description
Evergreen shrub or tree with drooping branches; leaves alternate, simple, long-tipped, glossy; flowers and fruits enclosed in a fleshy sac turning from green to orange-red to red and then purplish black.
Origin
Asia.
Where Found
Houseplant or interiorscape.
Mode
Dermatitis and allergic reactions.
Poisonous Part
Plant sap from all parts.
Symptoms
Itching of eyes, cough, and wheezing following frequent contact. Skin irritation with itching, redness and stinging following contact and exposure to sunlight.
Toxic Principle
Furocoumarins, psoralens, ficin.
Severity
SKIN IRRITATION MINOR, OR LASTING ONLY FOR A FEW MINUTES.

"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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