Berry uncertain

Lonicera involucrata, July 13, 2020

Lonicera involucrata, July 13, 2020

Common & scientific name
Twinberry, Lonicera involucrata

Family
Honeysuckle, Caprifoliaceae

Location
Lower Lost ManTrail, 10,500’

Fun, weird, helpful, or little known fact
From the USDA’s Plant Fact Sheet:  “Reports on the fruit vary from poisonous, to mildly toxic, to bitter and unpalatable, to edible and useful as food, depending on tribe, region or publication.”  Got it?  In any event, its twin berries are eaten by bears, small mammals, quail, grouse, and songbirds such as thrushes.  So be safe and leave it be!