The Stinging Tree
"Warning! If touched this plant can cause a painful sting. The large, oval or heart shaped leaves (and stems) are covered in thick hairs covered in mineral silica - the chief constituent of glass. If you brush against these hair-like tips they penetrate the skin, break off and release a poison irritant. The effect of the sting is severe and may last for months. There is no effective antidote known so visitors must avoid these plants. This plant prefers open, sunny areas and is often found along walking tracks so beware."
Aboriginal settlers arrived on the continent from Southeast Asia about 40,000 years before the first Europeans began exploration in the 17th century. No formal territorial claims were made until 1770, when Capt. James COOK took possession in the name... ... read more 
