uses and toxicity of trees/shrubs 1

Question 1

aesculus hippocastanum (horse chestnut)

Answer 1

Contains a toxin called esculin. Horse chestnuts should NOT be eaten
Medicinal uses: Used to treat varicose veins. Bark used to treat malaria

Question 2

aesculus parviflora (Bottlebrush Buckeye)

Answer 2

Planted as a native ornamental for shady areas. Attracts butterfly pollinators. No medicinal uses

Question 3

Berberis tunbergii (japanese barberry)

Answer 3

Roots and stems are sources of a deep yellow dye. Source of berberine an alkaloid used in
traditional Chinese medicine. An exotic, invasive species that provides a suitable habitat for ticks

Question 4

carya ovata (shagback Hickory)

Answer 4

Nuts are edible for humans and other animals.
Wood has been used for drum sticks, axe handles, and skis

Question 5

fraxinus Pennsylvania (green ash)

Answer 5

Used in making baseball bats, tennis rackets, tool handles, oars

Question 6

gymnocladus Dioicus (kentucky Coffeetree)

Answer 6

Native Americans used the pulp of the wood to treat psychiatric disorders.
Unroasted fruits and seeds are toxic as they contain the toxic alkaloid cytisine.
Ground, roasted seeds were used to make a beverage consumed by Native Americans and settlers.
The wood has been called Kentucky Mahogany and was used for cabinets and furniture