Interesting Facts About Some Deadly Trees

Bunya Pine Tree

Trees are not usually something that most folks would consider deadly. Trees create an elegant landscape and deliver shade on hot days. Though, this doesn’t change the facts about deadly trees around the globe that can hurt or even kill human beings. Below are a few interesting facts about the deadliest trees on earth.

The Machineel

This is one of the most lethal trees. It’s a lovely plant with spiked, shiny leaves and beautiful green flowers that change into sweet-smelling crab apples. However, humans should pick a different tree to gratify their craving for fruit. All parts of the Machineel are poisonous.  Those who accidentally eat Machineel apples will have a tracheal closing in minutes followed by death shortly afterward. 

​The Bunya Pine

The Bunya Pine is believed to have been around since the dinosaur age. What is interesting is that this plant claims to have an edible part. However, the bark, sap, and leaves of the tree are highly poisonous. Besides its toxic attributes, there’s another characteristic that makes the Bunya Pine one of the world's fatal trees. Every few years, this type of tree drops massive cones which some are weighing around 20 pounds. It is simple to see how this could be lethal for an unsuspecting individual. 

Hemlock

Hemlock trees are among the most beautiful and mysterious trees in the world. However, there’s a reason why these trees are called “deadly nightshade." They can paralyze and kill a human in minutes. A fact: the great philosopher Socrates committed suicide using hemlock. Even those who eat just a tiny amount will experience ascending muscular paralysis, which kills when it gets to the heart.

Cerbera Odollam

Even with a beautiful appearance and romantic name, the Cerbera Odollam is fatal. It is small with yellow and white flowers and dark leaves. Although it is a favorite tree because of its attractiveness, if you want to live a long and healthy life, you’ll avoid eating the seeds.

Though not all deadly trees develop in residential areas, if you suspect the presence of a poisonous tree on your property, you should call a tree care professional for advice and probably emergency tree removal.

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