Have you watched the latest season of ‘The White Lotus’ and been completely intrigued by the Pong Pong, or “suicide” tree, that is shown in the show? In a world where nature’s bounty often invites us to indulge in tantalisingly-sweet, fragrant fruits and veggies, there exist certain plants whose fruits are in fact, poisonous.
And it’s not just the ‘suicide tree’ shown in the show that carries this risk. There are many other fruits from around the world that could potentially kill a human. Here is a list!
Ackee Fruit
Originating from Jamaica, this fruit has the potential to harm you. Unripe Ackee fruit is poisonous and can cause Jamaican vomiting sickness, leading to coma or death if consumed.
However, once ripe, Ackee is safe and forms the base of the popular Jamaican dish Ackee and Saltfish. So technically, you can have the fruit . But it must be harvested at just the right moment to avoid poisoning.
Manchineel tree
Across the globe, the Manchineel tree—nicknamed the "death apple"—has a similar reputation. Its small, apple-like fruit might appear harmless, but stay far away from it as it is one of the most toxic plants in the world.
The tree’s leaves and bark are equally dangerous; they secrete a sap that, if it comes into contact with the skin, can cause blistering and severe irritation. Despite its danger, some cultures have used its wood for making charcoal.
Datura aka Thorn Apple
In India, another plant—Datura, also known as Thorn Apple—bears a reputation that ties it to ancient rituals and folklore. The mystical flower harbors toxic alkaloids like scopolamine and atropine, which have hallucinogenic properties. While Datura has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, the line between medicinal use and poison is dangerously thin. Consuming even a small amount can harm you.
Oleander plant
Beware of the Oleander plant! It is beautiful but dangerous. Its beautiful, fragrant pink and white flowers quietly hide the dangers lurking within.
The plant contains cardiac glycosides, which are compounds that can cause severe heart irregularities. The ingestion of even a small amount of the plant’s leaves, fruits, or flowers can lead to vomiting, nausea, and in extreme cases, death.
The ‘suicide tree’
In the tropical climes of the Pacific Islands, another deadly plant—Pong Pong or the suicide tree—grows. Featured in the hit show ‘The White Lotus’, the tree’s fruit, Othalanga, can cause severe health issues even resulting to death. The seeds of this fruit contain a potent poison known as cerberin, which has the power to stop the heart and induce death. Historically, this tree has been associated with tragic endings, often used in ancient rituals of death and execution.
So, while fruits are an essential and delicious part of our diet, it is important to see what we eat and do one’s research thoroughly before consuming something new.
