The Japanese Aralia - Aralia elata - is usually referred to only as Aralia. It is a large shrub that likes to flower in this country and even produces berries. But is it poisonous?
The Aralia is only partially poisonous
Toxic, yet edible
Poisonous saponins are contained in the Japanese aralia. However, the toxicity only applies to a limited extent:
- in Asia young leaves are eaten
- among others fried in tempura or as a salad
- only use the young leaves as vegetables
- older leaves are rich in toxic saponins
- too high a dose: irritation in the gastrointestinal tract
This plant is also poisonous to animals such as cats. Therefore, protect your pets from nibbling on this plant! Clippings that have accumulated during maintenance should also be disposed of.
tips
Birds like the berries. Therefore, it is worth propagating this plant if you want to provide a source of food for birds.