For centuries plants have played a significant role in myths and folklore, here are 3 plants with dark histories intertwined with superstitions and legend...

Deadly Nightshade
Legends suggest that witches would use the plant to concoct potions and ointments, which they believed would grant them the power of flight. The association of deadly nightshade with flying is also thought to be related to the plant's association with the underworld. In many cultures, nightshade plants are seen as symbols of death and the afterlife.
Every part of the plant, from its glossy black berries to its leaves and roots, contains deadly alkaloids. Ingesting even a small amount can lead to severe poisoning. It is therefore clearly not recommended for gardening purposes, especially in areas accessible to children or pets.

Yew
Yew trees, Taxus baccata, have a deep connection with death and rebirth. In Celtic mythology, yew trees were believed to possess magical qualities and were linked to the Otherworld, a realm of the supernatural. Their longevity and symbolism make them iconic in the UK's graveyard landscapes.
Yew is also toxic to both animals and humans, and caution should be exercised if using in the garden.

Monkshood
The symbolism of monkshood is complex being associated with both positive and negative aspects. In ancient Greece, it was believed to have sprung from the foam of Cerberus, the three-headed dog guarding the gates of the underworld, and came to be associated with death and the afterlife. Whereas in medieval Europe, it was often planted in gardens and around monasteries to ward off evil spirits.
Whether positive or negative, this plant is undeniable beautiful... and toxic. Again, be very careful if using in garden settings.
Image credits:
Deadly Nightshade: Photo by Josie Weiss on Unsplash
Yew: Photo by Johanna Radecke on Pixabay
Monkshood: Image by Mariya on Pixabay