22/08/2026
⚠️ The Stinging Tree ⚠️
Known to kill dogs, and even horses if they get hit too much, the Stinging Tree has a fearsome reputation. It really does depend on how you get hit. The silica-like hairs connect to a toxic protein sac inside the leaf containing the plant's defense system. Just like most toxins, more dose equals more suffering 😭
The leaves look highly nutritious to me, but sadly, there's no way of detoxifying them without losing the nutritional benefits. I do eat the berries when it's the hot season though, but you really need to check the fruit before touching it because some are covered in hairs that could cause some serious issues if eaten 😬
The berries were traditionally used as an electrolyte boost between creeks during hot season. They taste quite bland, not much flavour at all. They can be a bit dry and crispy. There isn't much to the fruit, but they are an awesome electrolyte boost until you get to the next creek when out walkabout.
This video Walu is behaving himself waiting off in the distance. I'm sure a few of you will pop up in the comments with your experience getting hit 😬😭
I use a few traditional methods if I get stung, but you only have a 20-minute timeframe to get the treatments applied before the body starts reacting to the toxins.
If you're going to take risks, at least make them educated risks!!
