Coriaria

/kɔːriˈɑːriə/ noun

Definition

A genus of poisonous shrubby plants native to warm regions, especially New Zealand, producing small berries.

Etymology

Named scientifically from Latin 'corium' (leather, hide), possibly because of the leathery appearance of the plant's leaves or bark.

Kelly Says

Coriaria plants in New Zealand were so dangerous to European settlers that livestock would die mysteriously after eating them—the Māori people knew this for centuries before colonization!

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