poisonous plant crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find all the possible solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "poisonous plant crossword", organized by letter count. Get the quick help you need to complete your puzzle!
Solutions for "poisonous plant crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
IVY: A common climbing plant, some varieties of which can cause skin irritation or be toxic if ingested.
5 Letters
RICIN: A highly toxic protein found in castor beans, often referenced in contexts of dangerous substances derived from plants.
7 Letters
ACONITE: Also known as wolfsbane or monkshood, this plant is extremely poisonous, containing aconitine.
HEMLOCK: A highly poisonous herbaceous flowering plant in the carrot family, famously known for poisoning Socrates.
8 Letters
FOXGLOVE: Contains cardiac glycosides, like digitoxin, making it poisonous, though it's also a source for heart medications.
10 Letters
NIGHTSHADE: A family of plants including deadly nightshade (belladonna), known for its highly toxic berries and leaves.
More About "poisonous plant crossword"
The clue "poisonous plant" often appears in crosswords due to the rich botanical vocabulary and the historical or cultural significance of many toxic flora. From ancient poisons like Hemlock, used in executions, to common garden threats such as Foxglove, which can be both deadly and medicinal, these plants offer a fascinating blend of danger and utility. Crossword setters frequently use them to test solvers' knowledge of both botany and general culture.
Identifying poisonous plants is crucial for safety, but in the context of crosswords, it's about recognizing the specific names that fit a given letter count. Clues might hint at their effects, their appearance, or famous associated stories. Familiarity with a range of these plants, beyond just the most well-known, can significantly improve your crossword-solving speed and accuracy for such clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: When faced with a clue like "poisonous plant", always look at the number of letters required in the answer grid. This immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While "IVY" or "HEMLOCK" are common, also consider less obvious but still well-known toxic plants or plant-derived substances like "ACONITE" or "RICIN".
- Check Cross-References: If you're stuck, try filling in letters from intersecting words. Even one letter from another solved clue can unlock the "poisonous plant" answer.
- Broaden Your Knowledge: Reading up on general knowledge topics, including botany and toxicology, can expand your vocabulary for niche crossword clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I think I've encountered a poisonous plant?
If you suspect contact with or ingestion of a poisonous plant, seek immediate medical attention. Call emergency services or poison control in your region.
Are all plants with 'poison' in their name actually poisonous?
While plants like 'poison ivy' or 'poison oak' are indeed toxic, not all plants with 'poison' in their common name are lethal. However, it's always best to exercise caution and identify plants before touching or consuming them.
Why are poisonous plants common crossword clues?
Poisonous plants are a rich source of vocabulary for crosswords due to their often unique or Latin-derived names, historical significance (like hemlock), or distinct characteristics. They offer a good balance of common and less common words, making for engaging clues.