When it blooms, the bluebell tree is a real feast for the eyes. Egg-shaped capsule fruits later develop from the pink to blue flowers, which turn from green to brown as they ripen and remain on the tree over the winter.
Is the bluebell tree poisonous?
The fruits of the bluebell tree (Paulownia tomentosa) are inedible to slightly poisonous, while the leaves are edible and resemble the taste of fresh spinach. Overall, there is no high risk of poisoning as the fruits appear unattractive and only fall off in spring.
The fruits of Paulownia tomentosa, as the bluebell tree is also called, resemble nuts, but are not suitable for consumption. They are considered inedible to slightly poisonous, including for dogs and other animals.
But since the fruits are not particularly attractive, you usually don't need to worry. It is unlikely that children or animals will nibble on them, especially since the fruits only fall from the tree in spring when they are completely dry. The seeds are also considered slightly poisonous. However, they are quite inconspicuous and not very tempting.
Are the leaves of the bluebell tree also inedible?
Unlike the fruits of Paulownia tomentosa, the leaves of this tree are quite edible. In their Asian homeland, consumption is quite common and they are considered tasty. The taste of the rather large heart-shaped leaves is similar to that of fresh spinach. You can also use the leaves as animal feed.
Unlike many other deciduous trees, the bluebell tree has no autumn color. The leaves remain dark green until they fall off. Only after flowering in spring does the tree sprout new leaves.
The most important things in brief:
- Fruits inedible, possibly even slightly poisonous
- Leaves edible, taste similar to spinach
- Leaves can also be used as animal feed
Tip
The leaves of the bluebell tree are some of the largest leaves you can find on trees, and they are even edible for humans and animals.
