Plantas ornamentais tóxicas cultivadas em Valença do Piauí: levantamento e percepção popular

Abstract

Growing ornamental plants is a common practice in domestic and public settings, but many popular species have toxic potential, posing a risk to human and animal health. This study aimed to investigate the survey and popular perception of toxic ornamental plants grown in homes in the city of Valença do Piauí. The methodology involved a qualitative and quantitative approach, with the administration of semi-structured questionnaires and guided tours of 15 homes in five neighborhoods. Twenty-six ornamental species were identified, particularly from the Araceae and Apocynaceae families. Species such as Dieffenbachia seguine (comigo-ninguém-pode) and Dracaena trifasciata (snake plant) were frequently found in the homes visited. The results revealed that, although 60% of respondents recognize that some plants can be harmful to health, an even greater 67% are unaware of the specific risks associated with the species they grow. The main sources of information regarding cultivated species were common sense and television. The conclusion reached is that there is a significant knowledge gap among the population regarding the toxicity of ornamental plants, highlighting the need for environmental and health education initiatives to prevent domestic accidents. This study has the potential to be used in environmental education practices by multidisciplinary teams within municipal governments.