Asian, especially Japanese, ornamental shrubs have been popular with gardeners from all over the world for centuries because of their beauty and growth. These also include the Weigelia (bot. Weigelia), which fascinate children and adults alike with their magnificent flowers and clearly recognizable calyxes. Each of the ten Weigela species produces fruit as well as the picturesque flowers. And many parents and pet owners are wondering: are weigela poisonous?
toxicity
Is the weigela poisonous?
Rest assured, weigelia are completely non-toxic in all parts of the plant. Even the fruits are not poisonous and can be consumed without risk of poisoning. The entire plant does not pose any danger to humans or animals, so even small children can handle the capsule fruits or other plant parts in the garden. However, children often do not eat the fruit because it is inedible and is usually spat out immediately after trying it. If a large amount of weigela fruit is eaten, the following symptoms may occur due to inedibility.
- slight nausea
- upset stomach
Weigela in full bloom
toxic effect
However, the effect does not leave any permanent damage and there is no need to go to the doctor. Nevertheless, small children and infants in particular should not eat the fruit, otherwise the stomach will be upset. Since the digestion is much more sensitive in the first months and years of life, too many capsules could therefore lead to diarrhea or slight vomiting, especially if something else was eaten beforehand. Of course, especially small children should always be observed when playing with the fruit, as they can easily choke and get stuck in the throat. Playing with the shoots, leaves, flowers and even roots is also safe.
Tip: Weigela are ideal plants for your garden if you have offspring and pets, as not only are they non-toxic, but they also don't develop thorns or other defense mechanisms. Even sensitive or ailing people can easily touch and even cut the Weigelia species.
effect on animals
The weigela is also non-toxic to animals. Self cats and rodents may eat the plants in all parts, but in most cases they do without it due to the inedibility. Even cats, who have been known to chew on all plants in the area, can safely pick up Weigela leaves between their teeth. So if you spot bite marks on your weigela's flowers or leaves, don't worry. dogs can also play with the individual parts of the plant and even chew on the shoots and branches.
Weigela is a honeysuckle plant
Tip: Birds are more likely to eat the fruits of the weigela as they are rich in nutrients and in most cases are not used as a food source by other animals. The best thing about it: You can look forward to flying guests in the garden.