Unfortunately, cherry laurel is not one of the non-toxic hedge plants. Only the pulp of the dark purple berries does not contain any toxins and is considered a tasty delicacy in the Turkish homeland of the laurel cherry. All other parts of the plant are poisonous.
Unpleasant taste of the leaves
Nevertheless, the cherry laurel is not very dangerous for humans. The leaves taste unpleasantly bitter due to the glycosides they contain and are therefore usually spat out immediately by children who accidentally nibble on them.
The seeds of the berries contain relatively large amounts of the substance containing hydrocyanic acid. In order for the toxins to be released, the small stones must be bitten when eating the fruit. If you swallow the stones without chewing, the enjoyment will have no significant consequences.
tips and tricks
To prevent poisoning, you can remove the flower umbels after flowering, so the cherry laurel will not bear fruit in the fall.