This means plant education for all people, big and small. Azalea Rhododendron spp. We live in a time of environmental crisis when all plant life should be promoted and valued, rather than feared for any potential poisonous qualities. Plants are extremely diverse organisms, however, and should be respected for their ability to poison as well as feed humans. There is no set manner by which plants poison.
Toxicity depends on the amount of plant material ingested.
Since sunflowers are a large part of our snack food diet, this comes as a surprise, but is a perfect example of toxicity as a function of ingested amount. Just because a plant produces poisonous berries or leaves does not automatically exclude it from use in a home landscape. Adults should learn about their landscapes and be able to distinguish those plants that are potentially hazardous. In turn, adults should caution their children about those plants and plant parts that carry toxins. There is no need to alienate children from plants, making them afraid of plant life.