Tag: Melia azedarach

Despite its common name, the chinaberry tree (Melia azedarach) produces fruit that is highly toxic to humans and many animals, with reported cases of severe poisoning occurring after consumption. This is a crucial distinction, as the edible goji berry, another 'China berry,' is often confused with this poisonous species. Understanding the difference is vital for safety, particularly for pet owners and parents.

A factsheet from Queensland Health confirms that all parts of the *Melia azedarach*, commonly called white cedar, are poisonous, with the fruits containing the highest concentration of toxins. This immediately answers the question: can you eat white cedar berries? The unequivocal answer is no, but understanding the specific dangers and proper identification is crucial.