Identifying and Avoiding Poisonous Berries in Georgia
Georgia's warm climate allows a variety of beautiful berries to grow, however some of these berries can be dangerous. Knowing how to identify poisonous berries in Georgia can help prevent accidental poisoning.
Berries that are toxic if eaten in Georgia include pokeweed, buckthorn, nightshade, moonseed, and black cherry. Always be cautious when foraging wild berries, and supervise children closely outdoors.
How Toxic Berries Can Be Dangerous
Poisonous berries contain toxins that can have the following effects if ingested:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and cramps
- Dizziness, headache, confusion
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Excessive sweating
- Weak pulse, low blood pressure
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
In severe cases, heart problems and respiratory failure may occur. Seek immediate medical treatment if poisoning symptoms develop after eating unknown berries.
Most Poisonous Berries Found in Georgia
Pokeweed
Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) grows as a large shrub or small tree. Its berries start out green and turn dark purple or black as they ripen in late summer to fall.
All parts of pokeweed are toxic. Eating the berries can cause gastrointestinal distress. Pokeweed grows in wooded areas and thickets throughout Georgia.
Buckthorns
Common, glossy, and alder buckthorns are all deciduous shrubs or small trees producing clusters of black berries. They contain glycosides and anthraquinones that can induce severe gastrointestinal issues.
Common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) is considered an invasive species in some parts of the U.S. All buckthorn varieties grow in woodlands and fields in Georgia.
Nightshades
Black nightshade (Solanum nigrum) and silverleaf nightshade (Solanum elaeagnifolium) bear dark black or purple berries. Ripe nightshade berries are especially dangerous and ingestion can be fatal.
Nightshades thrive in open, sunny locations. Black nightshade is common statewide, while silverleaf nightshade is prevalent in southern Georgia.
Moonseed
Moonseed (Menispermum canadense) produces grapelike clusters of dark purple berries that resemble wild grapes. Moonseed grows as a woody vine in shady, moist woods.
Even small amounts of moonseed berries can cause convulsions, paralysis and death due to their alkaloid toxins.
Black Cherry
Wild black cherry (Prunus serotina) trees produce small, black or purple cherry-like berries. The seeds, leaves, and stems contain cyanogenic glycosides that convert to cyanide compounds.
Consuming large quantities of black cherry fruit can create toxic levels of cyanide leading to breathing issues, seizures, and nerve damage.
Other Potentially Harmful Berry Species in Georgia
In addition to the most dangerous berries described, there are some other berry-producing species potentially harmful if large amounts are eaten:
- American Holly
- American Bittersweet
- Pokeberry
- Privet
- Black Locust
- Virginia Creeper
- Chinese Privet
- English Holly
- Firethorn
Safely Identifying Edible Berries in Georgia
There are also many edible berries and wild fruits found in the state of Georgia. Here are some tips for safely foraging:
- Obtain permission before foraging on private property
- Positively identify the plant and berries before ingesting
- Eat only ripe, fresh berries - do not consume any old or rotten fruit
- Eat just a few berries first and wait several hours to check for ill effects
- Teach children not to put unknown wild berries or plants in their mouth
Some edible berries to look for in Georgia include:
Blackberries
Wild blackberries produce plump, deep purple-black berries in summer. They have a sweet, slightly tart flavor. Blackberries grow in thickets statewide.
Blueberries
Wild blueberries have a high antioxidant content. Blueberry shrubs bear small dusty blue berries in mid to late summer. They prefer acidic, sandy soil.
Raspberries
Red and black raspberries sprout in old fields and clearings. The hollow berries are very delicate. Ripe raspberries will detach easily from the receptacle.
Muscadine Grapes
Muscadine vines produce large, purple grapes in late summer. Muscadine grapes have a distinctive sweet, musky taste.
Persimmons
After the first frost, wild persimmon fruits ripen. Smaller native persimmons are safest, as larger varieties can become mushy and contain toxins when overripe.
What to Do if You Eat Poisonous Berries
If you suspect someone has ingested toxic berries, time is critical for treatment:
- Call 911, poison control, or get to an emergency room immediately
- Try to identify the plant eaten using photos, leaf/berry samples
- Save a sample of the berries or vomit for analysis
- Remain calm - anxiety increases absorption of toxins
- Do not induce vomiting unless advised by a medical professional
Treatment depends on the toxin but may include gastric decontamination, IV fluids, oxygen therapy, and medications to treat symptoms.
Long-Term Health Effects of Berry Poisoning
Despite treatment, swallowing highly toxic berries like nightshade can potentially cause permanent damage. Long-term effects may include:
- Kidney or liver impairment
- Neurological deficits
- Difficulty walking or coordinating movement
- Chronic digestive issues
- Cancer risk from certain alkaloid toxins
Children are at higher risk of lasting effects from berry poisoning. Seek help rapidly at any sign of poisoning.
Preventing Accidental Berry Poisoning
Parents and childcare providers should take measures to prevent kids from eating wild berries, especially if foraging or hiking. Safety tips include:
- Supervise young children closely outdoors
- Remove tempting berries from yards and play areas
- Teach children to ask before eating berries, seeds, leaves etc.
- Have kids wear closed toe shoes outdoors
- Point out and describe poisonous plants
- Encourage kids to look but not touch unknown plants
With vigilance and plant identification skills, Georgians can safely enjoy the multitude of delicious edible berries across the state.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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