Stately and colorful in autumn, this is how the sweetgum tree presents itself. But is it safe to plant? Is it to be consumed with caution and poisonous or is it quite different and even edible?
Both the leaves and the resin of the sweetgum tree can be irritating to the skin
Sweetgum - unprocessed irritating to toxic
The sweet-smelling resin of the sweetgum tree is used in industry and medicine. But that doesn't mean it's completely safe. It should not be consumed in its pure state. Only when it has been processed can it be eaten, e.g. B. as chewing gum.
Not only the resin but also the crushed leaves can have an irritating to toxic effect. This applies in particular to sensitive people and also to animals. According to the literature, it can even lead to symptoms of poisoning.
tips
If you are a pet owner or have grazing animals, as a precaution you should not plant the sweetgum tree in a location where these animals have free access.