An unusual plant containing a poisonous substance bloomed in the Tomsk Botanical Garden.
In the subtropical greenhouse of the TSU Botanical Garden, the Pontic rhododendron has begun to bloom. This was reported by the university’s press service.
Under natural conditions, this shrub grows in the Western Caucasus, the Iberian Peninsula and northern Turkey. It was named after Pontus, which was the ancient Greek name for a region in northeastern Asia Minor in the territory of modern Turkey.
Pontian rhododendron contains the poisonous substance andromedotoxin, which has a neurotoxic effect. This poison is extracted by bees, resulting in a very unusual honey. In small doses in Turkey it is used to treat stomach diseases, diabetes and high blood pressure. And in large doses, it can have a psychotropic effect.
Over the next two weeks, Tomsk residents will be able to admire so many exotic plants.
Earlier in the Tomsk Botanical Garden, a flower bloomed, which is pollinated by flies.
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