Whether it’s your own kids or the grandkids coming over to visit, the garden is the ultimate playground. But as every gardener knows, little ones love to “taste-test” the berries and shrubs they find while exploring. That’s why it’s so important to know which plants are safe and which ones require a little extra caution. Firethorn (Pyracantha) is a common sight in many yards, but how worried should you actually be about those bright berries?
The Seeds are the Real Culprit
Here’s the good news: most of the firethorn plant is completely harmless. The branches, shoots, and leaves aren’t toxic at all. Even the berries themselves are technically edible! The “danger” actually hides inside the fruit—specifically, the seeds.
The silver lining is that most kids won’t want to eat more than one. Raw firethorn berries have a pretty unpleasant, sour taste and a mehlige (mealy) texture that isn’t exactly a hit with toddlers. So, while you don’t need to panic if your kids are playing near the hedge, it’s still a good idea to teach them not to pop the berries into their mouths.
The specific substance found in the seeds is called a cyanogenic glycoside. If the seeds are chewed and swallowed, an enzymatic process releases a small amount of hydrogen cyanide.
What Happens if Someone Eats Them?
For adults, the amount of toxin released is so tiny that you likely wouldn’t feel a thing. However, it’s a different story for small children. Because of their smaller body weight, the toxins in the seeds can lead to some unpleasant side effects, mostly centered around the digestive tract. We’re talking about:
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
To sum up the “danger zone” of firethorn:
- Only the seeds are toxic.
- The seeds contain glycosides.
- Small children are the most at risk for stomach issues.
Pro tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, firethorn berries can actually be cooked down into a delicious jam! Once cooked and strained, they’re perfectly safe and offer a unique, tangy flavor that’s a lot like sea buckthorn.
