For many, the name 'Devil's Backbone' is synonymous with a flavorful craft beer. However, for botanists and medical professionals, it signifies a dangerous, toxic plant. It is crucial to understand which is which, as confusing the two can lead to severe health consequences. The plant, also known as the zig-zag plant or redbird cactus, contains a highly irritating milky sap that is poisonous to humans and pets. If ingested, it can cause severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. On the other hand, the Devil's Backbone craft beers offer a delightful and diverse range of flavors for safe consumption. This article serves as a guide to both, prioritizing health and safety above all.
The Flavor Profiles of Devil's Backbone Craft Beer
For those interested in the culinary side of the name, the taste of Devil's Backbone is a complex and rewarding experience. The brewery offers a variety of popular brews, each with its own distinct flavor profile.
- Vienna Lager: This is arguably their most famous beer. It is a refined, amber lager with 5.2% ABV. It features warm, toasted malt characteristics with a mild sweetness and a notably clean, dry finish. Tasters report notes of caramel, subtle hazelnut, and a smooth texture that makes it highly drinkable. It pairs well with roasted meats, sausages, and hearty autumn-inspired dishes.
- Belgian-Style Tripel: Named for the scenic Virginia ridge, this is a deceptively strong, pale golden ale. It features spicy hops and Belgian yeast, along with candy sugar, resulting in a complex flavor and aroma. Reviewers have noted sweet aromas of honey and banana, with a taste profile featuring honey, lemon, and banana notes, balanced by a slight bitterness.
- Eight Point IPA: This IPA is described as having a proud, brash, and youthful spirit. It's characterized by citrus and pine notes, with a distinct, snappy bitterness. The aroma includes a bit of sweetness and yeastiness, while the flavor has a medium mouthfeel and noticeable hoppy bitterness.
- Juicy Double Imperial IPA: As the name suggests, this beer is packed with flavor. It presents a hazy golden amber color and has sweet, fruity aromas, reminiscent of candy. Flavors include pineapple and tropical fruits, finishing with a pine resin and slightly tart aftertaste. The high 9.5% ABV is well-hidden by the juicy profile.
The Toxic Devil's Backbone Plant: A Severe Health Warning
In stark contrast to the beer, the Devil's Backbone plant is a serious health hazard. It belongs to the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae) and contains toxic compounds in its milky sap. There are several varieties that share this name, including Euphorbia tithymaloides (often called zig-zag plant) and Kalanchoe daigremontiana (also known as mother of thousands).
- Euphorbia tithymaloides: This succulent features zig-zag stems and can have variegated leaves. Its root, stem, and leaves are toxic, containing euphorbol and other diterpene esters. Contact with the sap can cause skin irritation, inflammation, and blistering. Eye contact is particularly dangerous, causing severe pain and reduced vision.
- Kalanchoe daigremontiana: The 'mother of thousands' variant is known for producing plantlets along its leaf margins. It contains cardiac glycosides (like bufadienolides) that can affect heart rhythm. Ingestion by pets or children is potentially fatal and requires immediate veterinary or medical attention.
Caution Against Folk Medicine
Some traditional or folk medicine practices in various cultures have historically used parts of these plants topically or in brewed teas. The sap has been applied to warts, while teas have been used for respiratory issues. It is absolutely critical to note that these uses are not scientifically verified as safe or effective, and the inherent toxicity of the plant makes any internal use extremely dangerous. Medical and veterinary professionals strongly advise against consuming any part of these plants for any reason.
| Feature | Devil's Backbone Beer | Devil's Backbone Plant (Euphorbia tithymaloides/Kalanchoe) |
|---|---|---|
| Classification | Craft beverage | Toxic succulent plant |
| Origin | Virginia, USA | Central America, Mexico, Madagascar |
| Edibility | Safe for consumption by adults | Poisonous and not edible |
| Taste | Complex flavor profiles (caramel, spice, fruit) | N/A (Highly dangerous) |
| Primary Danger | Excessive alcohol consumption | Ingestion, contact with sap |
| Potential Harm | Alcohol-related health issues | Severe gastrointestinal and cardiac symptoms |
Conclusion
The most important takeaway is to clearly differentiate between the two entities that share the name 'Devil's Backbone'. The craft beers from the Virginia brewery are safe and offer a range of enjoyable flavors for those of legal drinking age. In contrast, the Devil's Backbone plant is a dangerous, poisonous succulent whose milky sap poses a significant risk to humans and pets if ingested or handled improperly. If you have this ornamental plant in your home or garden, ensure it is kept out of reach of children and pets. When a name is shared by a delicious beverage and a dangerous toxin, knowledge is the best form of protection. Always confirm the identity of what you are consuming. You can find more information on plant toxicity from authoritative sources like the ASPCA.
