15. SPINDLE
Scientific name: Euonymus europaea
Origin: Native to the UK
Key identifying traits: The bark is deep green - brownish. The leaves are shiny and slightly waxy, and have tiny sharp teeth along the edges. They turn a rich orange-red before falling in autumn. It has popcorn shaped bright pink, orange centred berries.
In the wood: May be found in broadleaf woodland within the understory layer. A small tree growing up to 9m tall.
Uses: The berries are very toxic to humans and can cause heart issues if consumed. Its leaves used to be made into a shampoo to treat head lice.