Juniper Berries
These small, dark purple berries are found on Juniper trees. They have a bitter taste and contain a poisonous oil called terpenes. Symptoms of juniper berry poisoning include stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Juniper berries can be identified by their dark purple color and the tiny bumps on their surface. They are typically about 1/4 inch in diameter. You can also identify these berries by their leaves, which are needle-like and grow in pairs. The juniper trees themselves can be identified by their light green needles and twisted branches.
Cotoneaster Berries
The Cotoneaster Berry is a poisonous berry that is found in Europe and Asia. However, it has been seen growing in some regions of North America as well. This berry is red or black and has a sweet but acidic taste. If you eat this berry, you will experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. You can identify this berry by its red or black color, as well as the small size, about 1/4 inch in diameter. Cotoneaster berries also have a smooth surface and are typically found on a shrub with red or green leaves. These shrubs will generally have a thorny stem and small white flowers.
Yew Berries
The Yew Berry is a poisonous berry that is found in North America and Europe. These berries contain a toxic compound called taxine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. These berries can be identified by their red or orange color, as well as their bumpy surface. They are typically about 1/2 inch in diameter. The leaves of this plant have a sharp outline and are a dark green color. The yew tree generally is very tall, with needles that are a deep green color.
Conclusion
Many poisonous berries can be found in North America. If you are unsure whether or not a berry is safe to eat, it is best to avoid it. Some of the most common symptoms of berry poisoning include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In extreme cases, this can lead to death. If you spend a lot of time in the woods, it is a good idea to read more about any berries that may be local to your area. This way, you can know with certainty which ones to avoid. If you experience any of the symptoms listed above after eating a berry, you should seek medical attention immediately.
