Poisonous plants have intrigued and beguiled humans throughout history. The Atlas of Deadly Plants provides illustrations and information on the toxic effects of each plant, peppered with stories of some of the world’s most high-profile poison cases.
The book looks into how we have harnessed the power of some of the planet’s deadliest plants to create cutting-edge medicines, and how others have been used for centuries for recreational and ritual purposes. Crucially, readers will learn what not to pick when foraging, as some of the deadliest plants can be mistaken for common edible varieties.
Illustrated by Alice Smith, in gothic style which highlights the uses and stories associated with these plants; alongside more traditional and naturalistic vintage botanical illustrations.
Jane Perrone has been growing houseplants since she was a child, and has turned her passion into a respected expertise. She is host of indoor gardening podcast On The Ledge, author of books Legends of the Leaf and The Allotment Keeper’s Handbook, as well as Houseplant Gardener in a Box. She writes for a range of publications including The Guardian, The Financial Times, Scribehound Gardening and Gardens Illustrated and is a member of the Royal Horticultural Society’s advisory committee on houseplants.
The Atlas of Deadly Plants (Greenfinch) will be released on the 23rd of October, 2025.
