Noxious Plants

Giant Hogweed - Hogweed Burns
Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum). This article explains just how noxious the sap of giant hogweed can be in causing photo-dermatitis. Images of the burns caused are also shown in the article.

Hypericin and light activation
An interesting article on how hypericin, the toxic chemical in St. John's Wort, becomes super-toxic to viruses and cancer cells when exposed to light.

Senecio genus (Ragwort)
Good discussion of the various ragworts, their properties, and control methods.

Buttercup
This brief article abstract by Carl. S. Hornfelt, on the California Turtle and Tortoise Club website, discusses the fact that animals do not instinctively recognise poisonous plants. One case of a tortoise dying after ingesting a large quantity of buttercups is highlighted and a reference to the full article is quoted.

Plant Toxins and Herbivores
Interesting article giving the variables involved in plant toxicity (digestive processes, plant parts, species susceptibility, growing conditions, etc.). It provides an insight into why tortoises in captivity will not necessarily know which plants are bad for them, and why wild tortoises can eat some toxic plants without harm. Article by A. C. Highfield

Pieris Japonica intoxication in an African Spurred Tortoise (Geochelone Sulcata)
This interesting article describes the toxic effects of Pieris japonica on a Sulcata tortoise, and the intensive efforts by veterinarians to save its life. Article by R. Pizzi, G. Goodman, D. Gunn-Moore, A. Meredith, E. Keeble, published in The Veterinary Record, 2005.