Heavenly poison

These berries are from Nandina domestica - commonly known as sacred or heavenly bamboo. All parts of the plant are poisonous, containing hydrocyanic acid and could potentially be fatal if ingested, although it's generally considered not-toxic to humans (but not cats or grazing animals).

Mum has this pretty arrangement on the dining table, so - Mum and Mark, if you're feeling a little off colour, check that the berries have not been falling into your dinner. You have been warned!

On a happier note, sprays of the berries are common in Japan as a decoration for the New Year.

Happy day today, taking Zoe to the city and we both went to the World Press Photo Exhibition 2012 and the Sydney Morning Herald Photos 1440. Both were excellent. Then to Mum's for dinner, Zoe then on the train to Newcastle and I stayed the night, leaving early to head up the hill for work in the morning.