The tree shrike (bot. Celastrus orbiculatus) is quite as brutal as its name sounds. It can actually kill small trees. In humans, however, this should be difficult for him, because he is only slightly poisonous.
The tree shrike can kill trees, but not people
The hardy tree shrike can grow up to 15 meters high, winding itself around trees like a snake. If they are still young (less than 20 centimeters trunk diameter) then you will be strangled by this climbing shrub. It is therefore better to give it a climbing aid to the side, because it can also cause considerable damage to house facades.
The essentials in brief:
- Slightly toxic in all parts of the plant
- Berries: red, pea-sized, in a yellow husk, bittersweet, only appear after the leaves have fallen
- can strangle young trees and damage house facades
- needs a climbing aid
- grows up to 15 m tall
- fast growing
tips
Only if you plant at least two tree shrike (one male and one female) in your garden can you enjoy the attractive red fruits.