Summer is a surprisingly hazardous season.
Extreme heat and a surge in car accidents make the season particularly dangerous.
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But even the most innocuous activities can land you in the hospital. Poisonous plants are common in Canadian yards, neighbourhoods, and natural landscapes.
The unsuspecting gardener or hiker could find himself suddenly convulsing on the ground if he's not careful.
To help you stay safe, here's a list of eight common poisonous plants in Canada:
Daffodil
Yes, the bright yellow flower that is a staple of springtime gardens in Canada. But while the flower bulb appears edible, consuming it can cause severe nausea and vomitting.
Giant Hogweed
Many mistake the hogweed for Queen Anne's Lace, the harmless and bountiful white flower that decorates many Canadian yards. The error can be devastating. Contact with the weed can cause skin burns and permanent blindness.
Bloodroot
This extremely dangerous flower can be found in Nova Scotia and Manitoba. While it appears dainty, the viscous red liquid it produces can kill. If you're lucky, you'll survive contact with the flower with only ruined skin.
Winterberry
The pretty berry provides a nice red accent to green Canadian gardens. But ingestion will cause nausea and low blood pressure that can lead to a stroke or death for people with weak hearts.
American Nightshade
The seemingly edible fruit of this plant is lethal. Luckily (I guess) the plant is common to only two provinces, British Columbia and Manitoba.
American Pokeweed
Great, yet another poisonous "American" plant...
I kid, the plant is named after the continent and is actually native to eastern Canada. While its fruit is edible, consumption of its leaves and roots can result in seizures in the unsuspecting admirer.
Water Hemlock
Related to parsley, the water hemlock is "arguably one of the most dangerous plants on the continent," according to The Weather Network. Severe illness is certain for those who ingest the plant. Death is also a strong possibility. It's best to stay far away.
Poison Ivy
The ubiquitous and famous plant causes rashes and fever. While many think its leaves are shiney, they often are not. Avoid low-lying leaves grouped in threes.