Holly with blue berries

Are there plants that are similar to holly?

There are some plants with blue berries that, at least at first glance, have a certain resemblance to the holly. This includes, for example, the common or thorn-leaved Oregon grape. It is often confused with the European holly because it is also the same Location preferred.

The Oregon grape has similar dark green glossy leaves with thorns like the holly, but belongs to the barberry family. Their flowers are mostly yellow. Many parts of this plant are poisonous, but the berries can be used to make jam. So the Oregon grape might be an alternative to that very poisonous holly especially in the family garden where small children and pets play.

Are holly berries edible?

the fruit Although the holly is an important food for the birds, as they stay on the bush well into winter, they are poisonous for humans. Eating just a few berries can be fatal for young children. Pets are also not allowed to eat the fruit. In dogs, two to three berries are considered a lethal dose.

What symptoms of poisoning does the holly trigger?

The symptoms of poisoning caused by the ilex berries are similar to those caused by other plants. Digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea develop. Cardiac arrhythmias, paralysis and kidney failure occur later or in particularly sensitive people. Just two berries are enough to poison an adult.

The essentials in brief:

• blue berries rarely found in the holly
• possible berry colors: yellow, brown, black, red
• most common berry color: red
• Holly fruits are very poisonous, even for pets!
• 2 berries are enough for symptoms of poisoning
• blue berry, similar looking plant: common or thorn-leaved Oregon grape