The tree shrike (bot. Celastrus orbiculatus) is as brutal as its name sounds. It can actually kill small trees. However, this should be difficult for humans because it is only slightly poisonous.
Is the tree shrike poisonous?
The tree shrike (Celastrus orbiculatus) is slightly poisonous in all parts of the plant, including the pea-sized, red berries in a yellow pericarp. However, there is generally no serious risk of poisoning for people when touched or consumed in small quantities.
The hardy tree shrike can grow up to 15 meters high, winding itself snake-like around trees. If they are still young (less than 20 centimeters in trunk diameter) then you will be almost strangled by this climbing bush. It is therefore better to give him a climbing aid (€17.00 on Amazon), because he can also cause considerable damage to house facades.
The most important things in brief:
- slightly toxic in all parts of the plant
- Berries: red, pea-sized, in yellow fruit shell, 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
- fast growing
Tip
You can only enjoy the attractive red fruits if you plant at least two tree shrikes (one male and one female) in your garden.
