The leaves and stems are covered in thick hairs that, if touched, inflict a painful sting. These hairs are manufactured from mineral silica, the chief constituent of glass. If you brush against them, their tips penetrate the skin, break off, and release an irritant poison. The effect of this sting may last for months. There is no effective antidote known for the stinging tree, so visitors must always be aware of these plants.
Green possums eat the leaves of the shiny-leafed stinging tree.
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