Flower Properties

Property	Value
English Name	Caster Oil Tree
MainColor	Green
PlantType	Tree
Growth Type	Cultivated
Season	August
ImageUrl	Kalopanax-001
Photographer	DP
Location	Tatton
Human Toxicity	Mildly_Toxic

Flower Details

Description

Kalopanax septemlobus is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 metres tall, featuring large, palmate leaves and distinctive spiny bark. It produces small, white flowers in clusters, followed by black berries.

Distribution

This species is native to East Asia, particularly found in Japan, Korea, and China. It thrives in temperate forests and can adapt to various soil types.

Medicinal/Other Uses

✅ Traditionally, extracts from the bark and leaves have been used in herbal medicine for their anti-inflammatory properties. The wood is also valued for its durability and is used in construction.

Edibility  

The berries are technically edible but are not commonly consumed due to their unpalatable taste. The leaves and bark should not be ingested.

Human Toxicity

Human toxicity: ingestion of large amounts may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.

Pet Toxicity

Mildly Toxic to dogs and cats - ingestion can lead to mild digestive upset.

Active Compounds

The plant contains saponins and other compounds that may have biological activity.