8. Georgia – Yellow Jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens)
Yellow jessamine is Georgia’s state flower, yet it is highly toxic. Its fragrant yellow blossoms contain gelsemine, a powerful alkaloid that affects the nervous system. Ingestion can cause dizziness, slowed breathing, paralysis, and death. Even honey made from its nectar can be poisonous. Despite its pleasant scent and attractive flowers, the plant poses serious risks when consumed. Livestock poisonings have been recorded, and human cases often result from mistaken herbal use. Yellow jessamine is a striking example of beauty masking danger in plain sight.
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