There’s a Stinging Tree
It’s not just animals and critters you’ve got to be scared of when you’re down under, apparently, even trees are out to get you. This sign warns you about a stinging tree that could cause severe pain and distress if you accidentally come in contact with it. Scientifically called “Dendrocnide moroides”, these trees have heart-shaped leaves (Oh, the irony) and dense hairs that look like fur.
On contact, the tip of the hair which is like a bulb breaks off and injects toxin. Apparently, the pain can last for months and has been described by some as “the worst kind of pain you can imagine.” Ouch!