Tree with red seeds...

Discussion in 'Plants: Identification' started by williaq, Sep 23, 2008.

  1. williaq

    williaq Member

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    Location:
    California, USA
    Greetings --

    We have this tree on our street, and all the kids are grabbing the "red beans" and playing with them. The "beans" are soft and fleshy, and bright red, appearing in a cluster that is initially fuzzy... *probably* harmless, but I wanted to know for sure. Can anyone ID this for us? Attached are 3 photos...

    [this is my first attempt at posting, so I'll retry if my attachments don't stick]

    Thanks much,
    --Williaq

    PICT0242 (Small).JPG

    PICT0241 (WinCE).JPG

    PICT0243 (WinCE).JPG
     
  2. tipularia

    tipularia Well-Known Member 10 Years

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    Looks like a Magnolia.
     
  3. williaq

    williaq Member

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    Thank you! So how toxic/poisonous are the seeds? The young children in the neighborhood play with them...
     
  4. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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    M. grandiflora. One of the most popular ornamental trees. Oily outer coating of seeds not poisonous. In fact, certain magnolias are used medicinally (bark), even eaten (tepals).
     
  5. williaq

    williaq Member

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    Thanks for the information, all! (puts the mind at ease)
    Wow, this is a great site/community.

    --Will
     

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