Bush honeysuckle is a common shrub in North America, often recognized by its fragrant flowers and abundant red berries. While the sweet scent is inviting, the invasive species of bush honeysuckle are considered toxic and unsafe for human consumption. This non-native plant, including species like Amur (Lonicera maackii) and Tatarian honeysuckle (L. tatarica), poses a safety concern because its bright fruit may attract curious children and pets. Knowing how to identify these plants and understanding the associated risks is important in natural and landscaped environments.
Identifying Invasive Bush Honeysuckle Species
The first step involves correctly identifying the non-native, shrub-like honeysuckles that dominate many North American woodlands. Unlike native honeysuckles, which often grow as vines, the invasive species are multi-stemmed, upright shrubs reaching six to twenty feet tall. Their leaves are arranged oppositely along the stem and have smooth, untoothed edges.
The most reliable way to distinguish invasive bush honeysuckle from native varieties is to examine the stem’s center, or pith. If the stem is broken or cut, invasive species reveal a hollow brown center. Native honeysuckles, by contrast, possess a solid pith.
These plants are also recognizable by their persistent foliage, as they leaf out earlier in the spring and retain leaves later into the fall than many native species, allowing them to form dense thickets. Flowers bloom in late spring, starting white or creamy yellow and sometimes transitioning to pink. Following flowering, they produce small, shiny, round berries that ripen to orange, red, or pink, typically appearing in pairs along the stem.
The Toxicity of Bush Honeysuckle Berries and Foliage
No part of the invasive bush honeysuckle should be considered edible, as the plant contains chemical compounds that can cause adverse reactions if ingested. The berries, which are the most conspicuous part, contain carotenoids and other compounds like saponins. Saponins are chemicals known to cause gastrointestinal irritation.
The level of toxicity is generally described as low to mild for humans, but it is important to treat all parts of the plant as poisonous. Even though the berries are consumed and dispersed by certain birds, this does not mean they are safe for people or domestic animals. The berries are also strongly unpalatable, which offers some natural protection against accidental consumption of large quantities.
The foliage and roots of species like Amur honeysuckle also contain toxic chemical compounds. Studies have shown that these substances can inhibit the growth of other plants. Consuming any part of the bush honeysuckle plant carries a risk of poisoning.
Recognizing Symptoms and Immediate Safety Measures
Ingesting any part of the bush honeysuckle, especially the berries, can lead to a range of symptoms, primarily affecting the digestive system. Common signs of mild poisoning include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The severity of the reaction often depends on the amount consumed, with small ingestions typically resulting in minor, temporary discomfort.
If a large number of berries are eaten, more serious systemic effects can occur. These can include an irregular or rapid heartbeat, dilated pupils, respiratory distress, or convulsions. Children are at a higher risk of experiencing a severe reaction due to their smaller body mass.
If a person, especially a child, or a pet is suspected of eating bush honeysuckle, immediate action is necessary. For human exposure, contact the national Poison Control Center hotline (1-800-222-1222) immediately for expert guidance. For pets, contact a veterinarian or a pet poison control service right away.
It is important to follow the instructions of a medical or poison control professional exactly. Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless specifically advised to do so. Gathering a sample of the plant or berries consumed, if possible, can be helpful for identification when speaking with a professional.