It is also known by the names golden orange, butcher palm and Japanese laurel, the Aukube. In this country, it is a poorly winter-hardy plant and is therefore more likely to be found indoors. Is it poisonous?
Both berries and leaves of the Aukube are poisonous
Aucubin makes the plant poisonous
You should regard the Aukube purely as an ornamental plant. In particular, refrain from snacking on the tempting berries! They contain 3% of the toxin aucubin in their seeds, which can lead to fever and vomiting if consumed. The leaves are also poisonous.
Recognize the Aukube
This is how you can recognize the pruning-compatible Aukube:
- evergreen, leathery leaves
- white-yellow mottled pattern on leaves
- irregularly serrated at the edge of the sheet
- purple-brown flowers with yellow anthers
- coral red berries
tips
Be careful if you want to multiply the Aukube using its poisonous fruits or the seeds they contain! Never leave these parts of the plant unattended at home if small children or pets live in the household!