Description
Bryonia dioica, known by the common names red bryony and white bryony, also English mandrake or ladies’ seal, generally toxic to humans. Application of its juice to the skin produces inflammation and skin irritation with a rash or ulcers, and consumption of this juice causes intense gastrointestinal irritation including nausea and vomiting in small doses. In medieval times the plant was thought to be an antidote for leprosy.
White bryony flowers sit atop lobed leaves that can grow up to 4 meters in one growing season. This strong climber is similar to black bryony (tamus communis) in growth rate. Five-lobed leaves are distinctive to this Bryony, Black bryony features heart-shaped leaves