‘Highly Toxic’ Siberian Squill Invading Toronto’s Natural Areas

Beautiful blue blooms are sprouting up across the Toronto region this spring, but while lovely to look at, these flowers are both toxic and invasive. Known as Siberian Squill, this ornamental plant is “highly toxic if ingested” for both people and pets, despite being a member of the asparagus family, according to Toronto’s Urban Forestry department. A bigger problem, however, is its invasive nature and ability to spread into natural areas and forests. Siberian Squill is native to Russia and was brought to North America in the late 1700s. It is often planted due to its vibrant early bloom, ground cover, and ability to grow in many conditions. The plant features bright blue, bell-shaped flowers and grows to be about six inches tall....