MODEL RELEASED. Plant allergy. Teenage girl suffering from a plant allergy holds a tissue up to her face. In the foreground is the seed head of a dandelion (Taraxacum officinale). Irritant inflammation of the upper nasal tract lining is known as rhinitis. In allergic rhinitis, this occurs due to an allergy to dust or, as here, airborne plant products. Allergic rhinitis due to pollen is known as hay fever. Symptoms include watering eyes, sneezing and a runny nose.