22.12.2025 20:30
The Gympie-Gympie plant, native to Australia, is considered one of the most dangerous plants in the world due to its structure covered in toxic needles, which can cause unbearable pain lasting for weeks or even months in those who come into contact with it. Historical cases have reported that the plant has led to fatal outcomes and psychological distress, and because of its high risk, it is kept under special security measures even in botanical gardens.
The Gympie-Gympie plant, native to Australia, is considered "one of the most dangerous plants" in the scientific community due to the long-lasting and unbearable pain it causes upon contact. The severity of the pain inflicted by the plant has, in some past cases, led to psychological breakdowns and tragic outcomes.
JUST TOUCHING IT CAN LAST FOR MONTHS
The surface of the Gympie-Gympie is covered with toxic spines that are difficult to see with the naked eye. When these microscopic structures come into contact with the skin, they release venom directly into the body. Affected individuals describe the pain as a combination of an electric shock and a burning sensation. In some cases, the pain can persist intermittently for weeks or even months.
ITS PAIN LED TO SUICIDE
The danger of the plant was first recorded in the 19th century. In the 1860s, the death of an engineer's horse after coming into contact with the plant highlighted the deadly effects of the Gympie-Gympie. During World War II, it was reported that an Australian soldier suffered severe pain for a long time after coming into contact with this plant and lost his mental balance. Some accounts mention individuals who allegedly took their own lives due to unbearable pain.
KEPT UNDER SECURITY
The plant, scientifically known as "Dendrocnide moroides," is kept under strict security measures outside its natural habitat due to its high risk. In recent years, the Gympie-Gympie displayed in a botanical garden in England was kept behind thick security glass and was only cared for by specially trained personnel.
THE DANGER THAT TRIGGERS THE VENOM
According to experts, the plant's spines can remain on the skin for a long time and can release venom again during contact with water or sudden temperature changes. This can cause the pain to re-emerge even after a long time has passed since the initial contact.
The Gympie-Gympie is considered one of the striking examples that not only show how powerful nature can be but also highlight the serious risks that plant life can pose to human health.