Medlars are considered an insider tip among ornamental plants. Picturesque growth, lush green foliage and beautiful flowers characterize this woody plant. But what about the fruits? Are they edible or poisonous?
Neither inedible nor poisonous
The plum-sized fruits of the medlar (Mespilus germanicus) are non-toxic. They do not contain any toxic substances and can be eaten without hesitation. But be careful: the medlars are unappetizing when they are unripe and hard. They should be harvested at the right time. Then they are delicious and ideal for raw consumption and processing.
Unlike Mespilus germanicus, the fruits of the cotoneaster, a popular ornamental plant for covering the ground, are poisonous. All other parts of her plant are the same.
tips and tricks
Do not confuse Mespilus germanicus with Cotoneaster. Both are called loquats, but they are extremely different. While the fruits of one plant are edible, the fruits of the other plant are poisonous.