The ornamental shrub widely known as Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus) is a popular landscape feature prized for its intense, vibrant fall color. This deciduous plant is native to Asia, but its cultivation has spread globally. All parts of the Burning Bush shrub are considered toxic to humans, particularly if ingested in significant quantities. The small, colorful berries pose a serious health risk and should never be consumed.
The Immediate Danger: Toxicity and Effects
The toxic properties of the Burning Bush stem from the presence of several compounds, including various alkaloids and a group of substances known as cardiac glycosides. These active agents are concentrated throughout the plant’s structure, with the berries being a particular concern due to their attractive appearance. The berries’ bright color can appeal to children and pets, increasing the risk of accidental ingestion.
Ingesting even a small number of berries or other plant parts typically results in severe gastrointestinal distress. The most common initial symptoms include abdominal pain, intense nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can begin within a few hours of consumption. This rapid onset of digestive issues is the body’s immediate reaction to the irritating compounds.
While the severity of poisoning is often classified as low for adults who consume minor amounts, ingesting large quantities can lead to more serious systemic effects. Cardiac glycosides are a particular concern because these compounds can potentially disrupt the heart’s normal function, leading to irregularities in heart rhythm.
In cases involving a larger dose, especially in young children or individuals with underlying health issues, symptoms can progress beyond digestive upset. More severe signs of poisoning may include pronounced weakness, chills, convulsions, or even a coma. Any known ingestion must be treated as a medical emergency requiring immediate professional attention.
Recognizing the Plant and Berries
The Burning Bush is easily identified by its distinctive physical characteristics, which are especially noticeable in the fall season. The shrub’s common name comes from its foliage, which transforms from a medium green in summer to a brilliant, fiery scarlet or crimson red. This intense color makes the plant stand out prominently in the landscape.
A unique feature of the plant is the presence of corky, wing-like ridges that develop along the greenish-brown stems, giving it the alternative common name of Winged Euonymus. These ‘wings’ are particularly visible once the leaves have fallen in late autumn and winter. The fruits themselves are small, purplish-red capsules, typically about a quarter to a third of an inch in diameter.
These capsules are structured to split open when they ripen, revealing a fleshy, bright orange-red coating called an aril that covers the seed inside. The bright orange aril is what is commonly referred to as the berry, and its conspicuous color makes it highly visible. The berries ripen in the early fall and often persist on the branches well into the winter months.
What to Do Following Accidental Ingestion
The immediate and most important action following a suspected ingestion of Burning Bush berries or any part of the plant is to contact a certified Poison Control Center immediately. These centers are staffed by experts who can provide accurate, time-sensitive guidance based on the specific situation. The national Poison Help Line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and should be the first point of contact before initiating any other steps.
Before calling, it is helpful to gather specific details to assist the medical professionals in their assessment of the incident. Try to determine the person’s age and weight, the part of the plant that was ingested, and the approximate amount they consumed. Knowing the time the ingestion occurred and what initial symptoms, if any, have appeared will also be extremely useful information for the response team.
Do not attempt to induce vomiting or administer any home remedies unless specifically instructed to do so by a medical professional or the Poison Control Center. Inducing vomiting can sometimes be harmful, especially if the person is becoming drowsy or has already begun vomiting.
Medical care for Burning Bush poisoning is primarily supportive, focusing on managing the symptoms and maintaining the person’s stability. Treatment often involves monitoring the person’s vital signs and heart function, as well as providing intravenous fluids to counteract dehydration from severe vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases, the medical team may consider gastric decontamination procedures, such as the administration of activated charcoal, though this decision rests entirely with the attending physician based on the clinical picture.