Is The Bilberry Tree Poisonous To Other Plants? A Review By Nutrition Professionals

Bilberry image

Expert opinion from Kelsey Masso

Master of Science in Health and Wellness Management /Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutrition · 2 years of experience · USA

No, the bilberry tree is not poisonous to other plants. Bilberries are native to Europe but their berries have been used in many countries for centuries as food or traditional medicine. The bilberry plant is edible and has been used in traditional medicine to treat diarrhea, chest infections, eye problems, liver diseases and rheumatism. The berries have antioxidant properties due to their content of flavonoids (plant pigments). People allergic to the pollen of the tree could experience a type I hypersensitivity reaction when eating or handling bilberry fruit. People who are sensitive to aspirin may react badly to bark from the tree since, like aspirin, flavonoids in the bark can cause gastrointestinal irritation.

Expert opinion from Theja Keerthi

M.Sc Food Science and Technology and Nutrition · 5 years of experience · India

Bilberry tree can be poisonous to other plants, if berries fall on the plants that are planted under the bilberry tree. The unripe berries of the bilberry tree are mildly toxic and the white sap from any part of the tree cause hallucinations and stomach upset to humans. Bilberry trees inhibits the growth of the plants planted under it, with its very shallow roots, or by the shade it provides. Bilberry trees also drop a lot of litter, seeds, twigs, leaves, that lead to cut the growth of the plants which are trying to survive beneath the tree.

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Expert opinion from Michael Colangelo

Master of Science (M.S.) in Nutrition · 15 years of experience · USA

The bilberry plant is a small bush that produces fruit that looks like and is a close relative to the blueberry. It is native to northern Europe but also grows well in Canada and the northern US. It can be invasive depending on the type of bilberry and where it is grown. Working with a gardening and plant expert is advisable. In the United States, many universities have an extension office that works closely with local gardening experts to provide information about gardening in your local area.

Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors or nutritionists and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Medical advice varies across region. Advice from professionals outside your region should be used at your own discretion. Or you should contact a local health professional.