The snowberry, also called firecracker, is often found wild on the edges of forests and in parks. However, when planting the easy-care shrubs in the garden, parents should be careful: the berries are slightly poisonous.

Snap peas are slightly poisonous

Snowberries contain toxins

Snowberry fruits are slightly poisonous. They contain saponins and other unidentified substances that can be harmful to humans and some animals, such as horses.

The berries should not be cracked open with bare hands, as the plant juices can cause skin irritation in sensitive people and children.

If snowberries are eaten, a maximum of four berries is considered harmless. Larger amounts trigger nausea and diarrhea. The saponins are also suspected of attacking the gastric mucosa.

If more than ten berries, initiate detoxification

The Information Center against Poisoning recommends inducing poisoning from an ingestion of ten or more berries:

  • drink lots of water or tea
  • never give milk
  • Administer charcoal tablets
  • Consult a doctor or hospital

Beware of small children, rodents and horses

Children love snowberries because the mostly white berries make a loud bang when they are cracked or thrown on the ground. This also earned them the name firecrackers.

As much fun as the popping sound is, parents need to be vigilant with young children when there are cracker pea bushes on or within reach of the property. Children should be strictly prevented from eating or cracking the berries with their hands.

Snowberries are also poisonous for some rodents such as hamsters and rabbits. In horses, consumption can cause stomach problems.

tips

The fruits of the snowberry are readily accepted by numerous species of birds. The decorative shrubs should therefore not be missing in natural gardens and natural hedges.

Category:

Vegetable garden