Mandrake plant, historical artwork. Different parts of the plant are shown in this botanical artwork, including the roots, leaves, and flowers. The key at bottom is in both Latin and German. All parts of the mandrake are poisonous, though its roots have been used in magic rituals. The roots appear to have arms and legs and resemble the human body. Legend says that when a mandrake root is pulled from the ground, it releases a scream fatal to any listener.