Poisonous Plants, Shrubs and Trees
There are many poisonous plants, trees and shrubs growing on the island of Puerto Rico that can represent a potential health hazard; the Manchineel (Manzanillo, Hippomane mancinella) found only on the island coastal plain, exudes a caustic milky juice that can cause severe burns, swelling and even temporary blindness. Many species have toxic fruits, seeds or leaves, while others have irritating sap or hairs which can cause moderate to severe dermatitis.
Fortunately, there are few of these poisonous plants, shrubs and trees growing in the recreational areas of the El Yunque National Forest, and these can be easily identified and avoided by reviewing the information shown below.
| Palo Bronco, Malpighia fucata | Stinging Nettle, Ortiga, Urera chlorocarpa |
| Ortiga Brava, Urera braccifera | Tabaiba, Hinchahuevos, Sapium laurocerasus |
| Carrasco, Comocladia glabra | Cabbage angelin, Andira enermis |
| Dumcane, Rábano, Dieffenbachia seguine | Frangipani, AlhelĂ, Plumeria rubra |
| Guinea Grass, Yerba pegajosa, Homolepis glutinosa | Cow Itch, Mucuna pruriens |
Elephant Ear, YautĂa Blanca, Xanthosoma sagittifolium
| Giant Philodendron, CalabazĂłn, Philodendron giganteum
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