Honeysuckle plants (Lonicera) are popular shrubs and vines known for their fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers. Many species produce small, brightly colored, visually appealing fruits. When considering the red berries of common honeysuckle species, the definitive answer to edibility is no. These fruits are toxic to humans, prompting caution in natural settings.
Visual Identification of Honeysuckle Berries
The berries of honeysuckle appear in vibrant shades of red, orange, or pinkish-red, especially in late summer and fall. These small, round fruits typically measure about a quarter of an inch across. They frequently appear in pairs or small clusters along the stem, replacing the paired flowers from which they developed.
To confirm the plant is a honeysuckle, examine the leaves and stems. Honeysuckle leaves are elliptical to ovate and arranged directly opposite each other on the stem. The edges of the leaves are smooth, without teeth or serrations. Furthermore, the stems of many invasive shrub honeysuckles possess a hollow center, or pith, which differentiates them from native species.
The woody parts of the plant present as multi-stemmed, arching shrubs or twining vines, depending on the species. Invasive shrub varieties can grow quite tall, ranging from six to 20 feet in height. The combination of opposite leaves and paired, shiny red berries strongly indicates the plant is a Lonicera species.
The Direct Answer: Toxicity and Safety Concerns
Red honeysuckle berries are toxic due to irritating compounds, primarily saponins, which are concentrated in the fruit. Saponins are naturally occurring chemicals that cause gastrointestinal distress when ingested by humans. Since toxicity varies by species, avoiding all red-berried varieties is warranted.
Ingestion of even a small quantity of these berries can lead to mild to moderate poisoning symptoms. Common reactions include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, as the body attempts to expel the irritating saponins.
Children are particularly vulnerable to honeysuckle poisoning, often attracted by the berries’ bright color and sweet, appealing scent. While a few berries may cause minor gastrointestinal upset, a larger quantity can lead to more serious systemic reactions. Severe poisoning, though rare, may manifest as dilated pupils, excessive sweating, an irregular heartbeat, or, in extreme cases, convulsions or respiratory failure.
If any amount of red honeysuckle berries is ingested, especially by a small child, it is imperative to contact a poison control center immediately. Medical professionals can determine the necessary course of action based on the quantity consumed and symptom severity. Treatment is supportive, focusing on managing digestive symptoms until the toxins are cleared from the body.
Common Varieties and Their Specific Risks
The Lonicera genus is vast, but most red-berried types encountered are invasive shrubs or ornamental vines. Invasive species, often grouped as bush honeysuckle, include Tartarian honeysuckle (Lonicera tatarica) and Amur honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii). These species produce abundant, bright red, paired berries that are toxic.
European honeysuckle (Lonicera periclymenum) is another common type featuring clusters of bright red berries. These berries are known to cause severe digestive issues, reinforcing the general rule of avoidance. The widespread growth and appealing fruit of these species increase the chance of accidental ingestion.
It is important to note the distinction between toxic red berries and the few non-toxic varieties within the genus. The only species widely cultivated for its fruit is the blue-berried Lonicera caerulea, known as honeyberry or haskap. This variety produces an elongated, blue fruit that looks very different from the round, red berries of the toxic species. Treat all red honeysuckle berries as non-edible and potentially poisonous.