Many popular garden perennials hold a hidden secret. While they might appear elegant and joyful, some perennials contain toxic compounds that are harmful to humans and animals. These plants often thrive in spring and summer, producing stunning flowers and lush foliage, but with this beauty, there comes a risk.
This is not to say, however, that gardeners should ban these plants from backyard borders. Many poisonous perennials have remarkable decorative value and when handled with care, can be safely enjoyed. As a former professional gardener, I have learned the hard way to always be mindful of the potential risks of beautiful species. For example, I always approach euphorbia plants wearing a thick pair of gloves, having suffered from the toxic sap one too many times.
