There are a range of garden plants that are considered poisonous. Poisonings and deaths from garden plants are rare, as most poisonous plants taste unpleasant and are seldom swallowed. However, it is best to know which plants are potentially toxic. Small children are often at risk from coloured berries, petals and leaves that look succulent. This does not mean that all these poisonous plants should be avoided or removed from the garden. It is best to teach children never to eat seeds, berries or other plant parts without first asking an adult.

This illustrated Primefact includes information on:

• toxicity of plants;
• how poisoning can occur and the symptoms of poisoning;
• what to do if poisoning occurs;
• correct identification of plants;
• tables of information on poisonous trees, shrubs, herbs, bulbs, climbers, weeds, and other miscellaneous plants.

There is also an index of common names.

The plants listed in the tables are often found in home gardens or grow wild in bushland surrounding homes. Note: The tables do not provide a complete list of all poisonous plants grown in New South Wales.