Poison arrow tree facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Poison arrow tree |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Acokanthera
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| Species: |
oppositifolia
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Acokanthera oppositifolia is a type of shrub that grows in Africa. It is also known as the "poison arrow plant." This plant is famous because its sap and other parts are very poisonous. People have used it for a long time to make arrow poison. They also used it to coat sharp objects called caltrops, which were made from the spiky fruits of another plant called the puncture vine.
About the Poison Arrow Plant
All plants in the Acokanthera group are dangerous. They contain strong poisons called cardiac glycosides. These substances can affect the heart and are powerful enough to cause death. Because of this, it is very important to never touch or eat any part of this plant unless you are absolutely sure it is safe.
Another plant, Acokanthera schimperi, is used for the same purpose. Both plants are known for their strong toxic properties.
Where the Plant Grows
Acokanthera oppositifolia is found across a large area in southern and central Africa. It grows from the Cape Province in the south all the way north to countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Tanzania. This shows it can adapt to different environments within Africa.
The Edible Fruit
Even though most of the plant is very poisonous, there is one part that is safe to eat: the fully ripe fruit. When the fruit is completely ripe, it becomes sweet and can be eaten. However, if the fruit is not fully ripe, it is still poisonous. So, it is extremely important to only eat the fruit if you are certain it is very ripe. Eating unripe fruit could be dangerous.
See also
In Spanish: Acokanthera oppositifolia para niños
