The bush honeysuckle (Lonicera species) is a common, often invasive, shrub found widely across North America, notable for its fragrant flowers and bright berries. Bush honeysuckle berries are considered toxic and unsafe for human consumption. While some honeysuckle varieties have edible parts, the vast majority encountered, particularly the invasive species, produce berries that can cause illness. Foraging is highly discouraged due to the risk of misidentification and adverse effects.
Toxicity Status of Bush Honeysuckle Berries
The berries of the invasive bush honeysuckle species, such as Amur (Lonicera maackii) and Tatarian honeysuckle (L. tatarica), contain compounds that are irritating to the human digestive system. These toxic principles are primarily saponins and similar glycosides, which are known for their strong irritating action on mucous membranes. The concentration of these compounds in the fruit is sufficient to cause gastrointestinal distress in humans.
While a single berry may not be harmful, consuming a larger quantity, particularly by children, can lead to pronounced symptoms. The berries are considered mildly toxic and are not suitable for eating. The digestive irritation caused by the saponins results in the body attempting to expel the substance, leading to characteristic symptoms of poisoning.
The berries also pose a risk to household pets, as all parts of the plant are toxic to cats and dogs. In contrast, the fruit is a common food source for various bird species, which are not affected by the toxic compounds. A plant safe for birds does not imply safety for human or pet consumption.
Differentiating Invasive Bush Honeysuckle Species
Accurate identification is important because the Lonicera genus contains many species, some native and others highly invasive, with varying levels of toxicity. Invasive bush honeysuckles, including L. maackii, L. tatarica, L. morrowii, and their hybrid L. x bella, are woody shrubs that can grow up to 20 feet tall. These non-native varieties have distinct features that separate them from native honeysuckle shrubs.
A primary way to differentiate invasive shrubs from native species is by examining the stem’s pith, or center. If a branch of older growth is broken or cut, invasive varieties reveal a brown, hollow pith. Conversely, native honeysuckles, such as American fly honeysuckle (Lonicera canadensis), possess a solid center pith.
The leaf arrangement is consistently opposite on the stem for both native and invasive bush honeysuckles. However, invasive species retain their leaves later into the fall and leaf out earlier in the spring than most native plants. The berries of the invasive types are typically red or orange, produced in pairs, and ripen from mid-summer through fall.
Symptoms and Emergency Protocol Following Ingestion
Accidental ingestion of bush honeysuckle berries can lead to a predictable set of symptoms centered around gastrointestinal upset. The most common physical reactions include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. These reactions begin as the irritating compounds interact with the digestive tract lining.
More severe, though rare, symptoms reported with large quantity ingestion include an irregular or rapid heartbeat, dilated pupils, and respiratory depression. If any quantity of bush honeysuckle berries is consumed, immediate action is necessary: the mouth should be rinsed thoroughly, and the individual should be given a small amount of water to drink. Contact a local Poison Control Center or emergency medical services immediately, regardless of the presence or severity of symptoms. Provide the Poison Control Center with the individual’s age, weight, the quantity consumed, and the time of ingestion for accurate advice.