Honeysuckle goat leaf (Lonicera caprifolium)
Other names: Honeysuckle, Goat's leaf
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
Honeysuckle goat leaf, also known as Lonicera caprifolium, is a species of plant in the honeysuckle genus. This climbing plant, which is native to southern Europe, is very popular for its beautiful flowers and strong, pleasant scent, which is most intense in the evening. Goat's leaf, as it is often called, is considered a semi-natural woody plant in the Czech Republic. The honeysuckle flowers are large, bell-shaped, yellow-white in colour with a reddish-brown outer perianth. It flowers from May to July. The fruit is a red berry.
Goat's leaf is used in many products and industries. Its flowers are used in the pharmaceutical industry to produce various medicines and dietary supplements. In the kitchen, this species of honeysuckle is used to make syrups, jams or teas. Its fragrance also makes it a component of some perfumes and cosmetic products. Honeysuckle is also important for the production of honey, as this plant is one of the sources of nectar for bees. Even though this plant is very useful and aesthetically appealing, it is important to point out that all parts of the plant except the flowers are poisonous to humans. It should therefore be handled with care.