Understanding the Toxicity of Honeysuckle
Honeysuckle is a diverse genus (Lonicera) with over 180 different species, including both vines and shrubs. The toxicity varies greatly depending on the species. While the sweet-tasting nectar from the flowers of many varieties is a harmless treat, the berries and, in some cases, the leaves can be toxic, particularly if consumed in large quantities. The mild toxins, such as saponins and cyanogenic glycosides, can cause unpleasant symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. For pets, especially cats and dogs, the risks are more severe, and any part of the plant can be toxic.
Poisonous vs. Edible Honeysuckle: How to Tell the Difference
It is imperative to differentiate between toxic and edible varieties of honeysuckle. A common mistake is assuming that all honeysuckle berries are the same. In reality, most of the red, orange, and purple berries found on wild honeysuckle plants in North America are poisonous.
Common Poisonous Honeysuckles:
- Japanese Honeysuckle (
Lonicera japonica): This is a highly invasive species known for its fragrant, white-to-yellow flowers. The berries are dark purple or black and are toxic. - Tartarian Honeysuckle (
Lonicera tatarica): A bush honeysuckle with pink or reddish flowers and orange-red berries that are considered poisonous. - Fly Honeysuckle (
Lonicera xylosteum): The red, twin berries of this shrub are considered dangerously poisonous and can cause severe gastrointestinal issues.
Common Edible Honeysuckles:
- Honeyberry (
Lonicera caerulea): Also known as haskap, this variety is commercially grown for its edible, elongated, blue-purple berries. It is important to only consume berries from known cultivated plants. The flowers are also edible.
How to Identify Edible Honeyberries: Unlike the small, round, red or black berries of most wild honeysuckles, honeyberries are blue, elongated, and often have a powdery white bloom on their skin, similar to blueberries. They ripen much earlier in the spring than the berries of poisonous species. However, positive identification by a foraging expert or relying on a known edible cultivar is the only safe option.
Symptoms of Honeysuckle Poisoning
Ingestion of toxic honeysuckle berries can lead to various symptoms depending on the quantity consumed and the sensitivity of the individual or animal. The effects are generally mild for humans but can be more severe for pets.
Symptoms in Humans
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Stomach pain or gastrointestinal irritation
- Rapid heartbeat (less common)
- Flushing and head pressure (with some species)
Symptoms in Pets (Dogs and Cats)
- Lack of appetite
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling around the mouth
Comparison of Honeysuckle Varieties
| Feature | Wild/Invasive Honeysuckle (e.g., Japanese, Fly) | Edible Honeysuckle (e.g., Honeyberry) |
|---|---|---|
| Toxicity | Berries and sometimes leaves are toxic | Berries and flowers are safe (with positive ID) |
| Berry Appearance | Small, round berries (red, orange, or black) | Elongated, blue-purple berries |
| Berry Ripening Season | Mid-to-late summer | Early spring |
| Safety for Pets | Highly toxic to dogs and cats | Only safe for consumption if known cultivar |
| Growth Habit | Often invasive, aggressive vines or shrubs | Cultivated shrubs |
Preventing Honeysuckle Poisoning
For households with children or pets, taking precautions is the best way to prevent accidental poisoning. This is especially important for invasive species like Japanese honeysuckle, which are widespread in many regions.
Prevention Strategies:
- Positive Identification: Never assume a wild honeysuckle is edible. Educate yourself and your family on the different varieties.
- Control Invasive Species: Japanese honeysuckle and other invasive types can be removed to reduce risk. This also helps native ecosystems.
- Deadheading: Regularly removing faded flowers will prevent the formation of toxic berries on many ornamental varieties, especially where children are present.
- Restrict Access: Create a barrier or plant toxic species in areas that are not accessible to curious pets or children.
- Consider Safe Alternatives: If you want honeysuckle for your garden, opt for safe, native, or non-invasive varieties like Trumpet Honeysuckle (
Lonicera sempervirens), which is not known to be toxic.
What to Do in Case of Poisoning
If you suspect that a person or pet has ingested poisonous honeysuckle berries or leaves, it is important to take immediate action:
- For humans: Call a poison control center immediately for guidance. In the U.S., the number is 1-800-222-1222. If the person is unconscious or having difficulty breathing, call emergency services.
- For pets: Contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so.
Note: While many wild honeysuckle flowers offer sweet nectar that is safe to taste, it is safest to only harvest from known edible species or cultivated plants. When in doubt, err on the side of caution. For further reading, consider consulting a reliable foraging guide.
Conclusion
In summary, while the familiar scent of honeysuckle is enchanting, the plant's toxicity is a serious consideration. While the flowers of many species are safe, the colorful berries of most wild varieties are toxic, posing a risk to both humans and pets. Edible honeyberries exist, but they are a specific cultivated variety with a distinct appearance. Knowing the difference between toxic wild berries and safe cultivated berries is essential for preventing accidental poisoning and for enjoying the beauty of this versatile plant safely.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional or veterinary expert in case of suspected poisoning.
