Solved What type of berry (or seed) head is this?

Discussion in 'Identification Area' started by TheMadHedger, Jul 5, 2018.

  1. TheMadHedger

    TheMadHedger Gardener

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    Wild plant, I think it grows from a bulb (not sure), the green seeds/berries turn red as they ripen.

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    • Jiffy

      Jiffy The Match is on Fire

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      Lords and Ladies but i could be wrong as usual :biggrin:
       
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      • TheMadHedger

        TheMadHedger Gardener

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        Thanks, looks like that's it. :) However, from what I've read they only seem to produce berries in the autumn, but it's summer now.

        I was concerned that one of my dogs may have eaten some less than half an hour ago, but from looking at the symptoms of ingestion he would be showing signs by now and he's not, thankfully!
         
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        • Gail_68

          Gail_68 Guest

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          Madhedger still watch your dog though as some can be as sly as their master :loll:
           
        • Kandy

          Kandy Will be glad to see the sun again soon.....

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          Arum Lily is another name for them and the hedgerows are full of them in the spring although there is also an ornamental one you can buy for the garden.

          These green seeds will gradually ripen to a red colour which will add colour to the garden late summer then the seeds will drop off and will probably germinate at ground level.

          I am not sure if they are poisonous to pets/children so you can either break off the seed head and dispose of it or else you can try to surround the plant/berries to preserve and enjoy the beauty of them:smile:
           
        • NigelJ

          NigelJ Total Gardener

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          Arum maculatum aka Cuckoo Pint, Lords and Ladies and many other names.
          They are poisonous; contain oxalic acid and sharp crystals. Flowers smell bad, grow almost anywhere, foliage is a pleasant green in winter/early spring. The red berries are attractive and eaten by birds.
           
        • TheMadHedger

          TheMadHedger Gardener

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          Thanks all, I really appreciate your help. I've re-checked the area and there's none left and the dog is fine, if he had eaten any I'd definitely know about it by now.
           
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