10 Poisonous Plants in South Carolina You Should Never Grow

Poisonous plants in South Carolina have the potential to be hazardous to humans, pets, and livestock. Some plants in this region can prove to be highly toxic and even deadly in rare instances.

In this post, we will explore some of the most commonly found poisonous plants in South Carolina and the potential risks associated with them. Check out the details of these plants below.

Various Types of Poisonous Plants in South Carolina

1. Carolina Jessamine

The Carolina Jessamine is also known as the Gelsemium Sempervirens, and it is a poisonous plant native to the southeastern United States. It is a woody climbing vine with fragrant yellow flowers and glossy evergreen leaves that can grow up to thirty feet in length.

Though it has ornamental value, care must be taken when handling this plant as its sap can cause skin irritation and contact with its nectar can be deadly if ingested, especially in a big quality. At the same time the seeds and foliage also contain an alkaloid toxic to humans when they are eaten or even touched.

2. Poison Sumac

Poison sumac or Toxicodendron Vernix is a native poisonous plant in South Carolina, belonging to the Anacardiaceae family of plants. It is found primarily in wetland areas or marshy places but can grow in other habitats as well, hence it would be visible in common places, as the colors is one to add vibrancy to the place that it is in.

All parts of the poison sumac are toxic and coming into contact with it can cause red rash-like symptoms including burning sensations and blistering on exposed skin. People should identify this plant from its color and learn how to avoid it while outdoors in South Carolina to avoid danger.

3. Oleander

Oleander is a poisonous plant found throughout the southeastern US, including South Carolina. The plant’s toxic properties are due to several cardiac glycosides that are potentially lethal substances that affect the heart and nervous system, which means that the danger would be extensive when one comes across this plant. 

While an attractive ornamental shrub, all parts of this plant contain these toxins, and contact with any part of the plant can cause dermatological reactions or poisoning if ingested. Children should be taught to avoid contact or ingestion as this commonly grown ornamental produces a striking flower that may be dangerously enticing.

4. Poison Oak

Poison oak is a poisonous plant that is native to South Carolina and is particularly common in wooded areas, due to the land’s specificity. It grows as a shrub standing up to several feet tall. The plant contains urushiol oil, and this is an oily substance found within the leaves and stems, like a sap. 

When this oil is secreted, it can cause an allergic reaction upon contact with human skin. This reaction manifests in the form of redness, swelling, burning, itching blisters, and rashes which can last for weeks or months if left untreated.

5. Poison Hemlock

Native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa but naturalized in much of the United States, including in the state of South Carolina, Poison hemlock is an invasive species that is highly toxic to humans and animals.

All parts of the plant contain a poisonous alkaloid called coniine, and ingestion can cause paralysis and even death. Which means that you should stay away from it, and make sure your pets and even children do no go anywhere near this plant. 

Poison hemlock creates a serious hazard for grazing livestock, pets, wildlife, and children exploring outdoors. Poison hemlock can be identified by its fern-like leaves that are divided into several leaflets, and all of them would be equally harsh when in contact. 

6. Star of Bethlehem

The star of Bethlehem is a poisonous plant native to various regions in Europe, West Asia, and North Africa. Unfortunately, this species has also become an invasive weed in southern areas of South Carolina.

Even though it appears attractive, the Star of Bethlehem contains toxins that can be fatal if eaten in large quantities by humans or animals. Therefore, it is important for residents to properly identify and remove this noxious weed from their property upon learning about its presence.

7. Stinging Nettle

Stinging nettle is a native shrub commonly found in wetlands, bogs, and disturbed sites throughout South Carolina. It is an annual or perennial herbaceous plant that produces red or green shoots with sharp hairs on them from its root system.

When anyone comes in contact with this plant, it is very dangerous that it can cause a painful sting resulting from the formic acid present in the hairs which irritates the mucous membranes such as the skin and eyes. The recovery time would even take a long period, so for the good of safety it is best to keep away. 

8. Poison Ivy

Poison ivy or Toxicodendron Radicans is an insidious, poisonous plant found throughout South Carolina, it is one of the most popular plants, as it is a vine. Though it may appear innocuous, all parts of the plant contain urushiol oil which can cause rashes and irritation on contact with the skin, as it will become red and itchy, sometimes it would even result in blisters, too.

Contact with this plant can be avoided by finding alternate routes while hiking or camping, by wearing protective clothing, or by using barrier creams. In addition, special attention should be paid when engaging in landscaping or gardening activities.

9. Tree Tobacco

Tree tobacco is a highly adaptive, naturally-occurring species of wild tobacco with a toxic chemical composition that makes it particularly hazardous to humans and livestock. Native to South America, tree tobacco has become widespread throughout the southern United States, particularly in South Carolina, where it can be seen growing along wetland margins and sometimes even near the roadsides.

Commonly referred to as ‘green tobacco sickness’, consumption of this plant can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and rapid pulse rate. However, when you consume it in a big quantity, it would give the person some brain damage, muscle weakness, and even raise their blood pressure very high.

10. Lantana

Lantana or Lantana Camara is a perennial shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. It has gained notoriety due to its introduction as an ornamental plant in certain parts of South Carolina, where it has become an invasive species.

The plant’s dense foliage habits have allowed it to outcompete native vegetation, contributing to biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. While non-toxic to humans, Lantana contains a toxin that is highly lethal to many domestic animals such as goats, sheep, and cattle. When these animals see it and consider a food to eat, they would intoxicated and would even die. 

Conclusion

Various types of poisonous plants in South Carolina are found in different seasons in this state. Here is a summary of the plants in different seasons,

• In summer and spring soison sumac, oleander, and poison ivy are found across South Carolina.

• Carolina jessamine, star of Bethlehem, and Lantana can be seen growing during winter and spring.

• During the fall, stinging nettle thrives around South Carolina.

Now that you know about these poisonous plants that are found in different seasons in South Carolina, you can easily keep a safe distance from these plants.

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