Plants Poisonous To Horses

An Australian Field Guide
Plants Poisonous to Horses

HOR - 06-048 Plants Poisonous to1 1 2/06/2006 9:25:44 AM
xxxxx
RIRDC Publication No 06/048 RIRDC Project No. OFF-1A
Mellisa Offord
II
Disclaimer by RIRDC
The information contained in this publication is intended for
general use to assist public knowledge and discussion and to
help improve the development of sustainable industries. The
information should not be relied upon for the purpose of a
particular matter. Specialist and/or appropriate legal advice
should be obtained before any action or decision is taken on
the basis of any material in this document. The Commonwealth
of Australia, Rural Industries Research and Development
Corporation, the authors or contributors do not assume liability
of any kind whatsoever resulting from any persons use or
reliance upon the content of this document.
This publication is copyright. However, RIRDC encourages wide
dissemination of its research, providing the Corporation is clearly
acknowledged. For any other enquiries concerning reproduction,
contact the Publications Manager on phone 02 6272 3186.
In submitting this report the researcher has agreed to publishing
this material in its edited form.
RIRDC contact details
Level 2
15 National Circuit
BARTON ACT 2600
PO Box 4776
KINGSTON ACT 2604
Phone: 02 6272 4819
Fax: 02 6272 5877
Email: rirdc@rirdc.gov.au
Web: www.rirdc.gov.au
Published in June 2006.
Publication design and graphics by Mellisa Offord.
Cover design by RIRDC Publications.
Edited by Karen Drake. Sydney 02 9453 2420
Disclaimer by author
The information presented in this publication are intended as a
guide to the plants in Australia that are poisonous to horses. All
care and diligence has been exercised in interpreting published
information as the basis for the information presented in this
book.
Specic circumstances and research ndings after the date of
publication may inuence the accuracy of the infomation within
this book. The author accepts no responsibility and disclaims
any liability for any error, loss or unforeseen consequence that
may arise from relying on, or adopting, any of the information in
this publication.
Researchers contact details
Mellisa Offord
PO Box 461
Forestville NSW 2087
Phone/Fax: 02 8901 0622
2006 Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation
All rights reserved
ISBN 1440-6845
ISSN 1 74151 311 1
Plants Poisonous to Horses - An Australian Field Guide
Publication no. 06/048
Project no. OFF-1A
Front and back cover photograph: Mellisa Offord
III
Foreword
Many plants that grow in Australia are potentially poisonous to horses. Such plants can cause considerable economic
and welfare problems for horse owners. Under most circumstances, horses will avoid consuming toxic amounts of
poisonous plants. However, some poisonous plants are palatable to horses and some need only be consumed in very
small amounts to cause poisoning. Horses may choose to eat poisonous plants when there is little alternative forage.
Also, seasonal conditions may inuence the toxicity levels of certain plants, making them more deadly at various times
of the year.
An awareness of toxic plants growing in Australian and an understanding of the factors that inuence the risk of
poisoning will help horse owners keep their horses safe. Pasture management decisions and landscaping decisions
should be made with consideration to plants that are potentially poisonous to horses.
This book is designed as a guide for horse owners to help them prevent plant poisoning in their horses. It clearly
outlines the factors that inuence the risk of plant poisoning and the ways to reduce this risk. The types of toxins that
can be found in plants are discussed, along with the signs of poisoning that may be seen in horses that have ingested
toxic plant material. A description of each plant is provided, including structure, growth habit and identifying features.
Management notes suggest ways of dealing with poisonous plants on properties. The book includes a comprehensive
list of ornamental plants that are known to be toxic to horses. The reference list is a useful resource for further reading
and includes the journal articles, industry papers, books, CD Roms and Internet resources that were used to create this
publication.
The production of this book was funded through industry revenue which was matched by funds provided by the
Australian Government.
This book, an addition to RIRDCs diverse range of over 1500 publications, forms part of our Horse R&D program,
which aims to assist in developing the Australian horse industry.
Most of our publications are available for viewing, downloading or purchasing online through our website:
downloads at www.rirdc.gov.au/fullreports/index.html
purchases at www.rirdc.gov.au/eshop
Peter OBrien
Managing Director
Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation
IV
Acknowledgments
I would like to acknowledge the following people and organisations for their support in the production of this book.
The Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.
Jane Vincent and John Freestone for their continued support and encouragement in the production of this publication.
Ross M
c
Kenzie for supplying photos and for reviewing the publication and offering expert toxicology advice on many
of the plants in the book.
My family for their support and encouragement. In particular I would like to thank my sister Cathy Offord and my
mother Pat Offord for their expert botanic advice.
Susanne Hourigan for supplying photos and information on crotalarias.
Matthew Smyth for supplying photos and information on Patersons Curse.
Many thanks go to the individuals who contributed photos. In particular Id like to thank Ken Harris and Sheldon Navie
for allowing me access to their extensive photo collections. I would also like to thank Paul McGreevy, Peter Windsor,
Mary Alice Mitchell and Calder Chaffey for their contributions. Those that have no acknowledgement have either been
supplied by myself or RIRDC.
Reuben Rose for his encouragement and feedback on the content of the book.
Barbara Wiecek for advice and information on plant identication.
V
Table of contents
The risk to horses from poisonous plants ............................... 1
Controlling poisonous plants................................................................. 2
Naming plants ........................................................................................................ 4
Identifying plants ................................................................................................ 5
Using this book ..................................................................................................... 6
Alkaloids
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids................................................................................................7
Patersons curse ....................................................................................................................... 8
Crotalarias ................................................................................................................................ 9
Senecios ................................................................................................................................. 12
Heliotropes ............................................................................................................................. 14
Amsinckias ............................................................................................................................. 16
Tryptamine alkaloids ................................................................................................17
Blue canary grass ................................................................................................................... 17
Paradoxa grass ...................................................................................................................... 17
Indolizidine alkaloids ...............................................................................................18
Swainsonas ............................................................................................................................. 18
Taxine alkaloids .......................................................................................................... 20
English yew ............................................................................................................................. 20
Tropane alkaloids....................................................................................................... 21
Field bindweed ...................................................................................................................... 21
Thornapples ........................................................................................................................... 22
Angels trumpet ...................................................................................................................... 23
Poison corkwood ................................................................................................................... 23
Corkwood .............................................................................................................................. 24
Piperidine alkaloids ................................................................................................... 25
Hemlock ................................................................................................................................ 25
Quinolizidine alkaloids ............................................................................................26
Lupins .................................................................................................................................... 26
Golden chain tree .................................................................................................................. 27
Brooms ................................................................................................................................... 27
Pyridine alkaloids ....................................................................................................... 29
Tobaccos ............................................................................................................................... 29
Lobelias .................................................................................................................................. 29
VI
Glycosides
Cyanogenic glycosides .............................................................................................30
Prunus ................................................................................................................................... 31
Sorghum ................................................................................................................................. 31
Other plants that can accumulate cyanogenic glycosides: ....................................................... 32
Cardiac glycosides ...................................................................................................... 35
Oleander ................................................................................................................................ 35
Yellow oleander ..................................................................................................................... 36
Rubber vine ........................................................................................................................... 37
Purple rubber vine ................................................................................................................. 37
Mother of millions .................................................................................................................. 38
Cape tulips ............................................................................................................................ 39
Cotton bushes ........................................................................................................................ 40
Foxglove ................................................................................................................................. 41
Ornithogalums ........................................................................................................................ 42
Blue periwinkle ...................................................................................................................... 42
Pheasants eye ....................................................................................................................... 43
Protoanemonin ............................................................................................................ 44
Celery-leaf buttercup ............................................................................................................. 44
Steroidal saponins ..................................................................................................... 45
Panicum spp .......................................................................................................................... 45
Carboxyatractyloside................................................................................................46
Noogoora burr ....................................................................................................................... 46
Bathurst burr .......................................................................................................................... 47
Green cestrum ........................................................................................................................ 48
Night scented jasmine ............................................................................................................ 49
Calcinogenic glycosides ...........................................................................................50
Day jasmine ........................................................................................................................... 50
Alcohols and Acids
Soluble oxalates .......................................................................................................... 51
Nutritional Secondary Hyperparathyroidism or big head ........................................................ 51
Tannic acid .................................................................................................................... 53
Oaks ....................................................................................................................................... 53
Quinones ........................................................................................................................ 54
St Johns wort ......................................................................................................................... 54
Proteins and Amino acids
Lectins .............................................................................................................................. 55
Castor oil plant ...................................................................................................................... 55
Crabs eye .............................................................................................................................. 56
Black locust ........................................................................................................................... 57
Jatropha .................................................................................................................................. 57
Beans ...................................................................................................................................... 58
VII
Propyl disulde ............................................................................................................ 60
Allium spp .............................................................................................................................. 60
Garlic supplements ................................................................................................................. 60
Thiaminase .................................................................................................................... 61
Bracken .................................................................................................................................. 61
Nardoo .................................................................................................................................. 62
Rock ferns .............................................................................................................................. 63
Horsetails ............................................................................................................................... 63
Terpenes
Diterpene esters ......................................................................................................... 64
Leafy spurges ......................................................................................................................... 64
Meliatoxins .................................................................................................................... 66
White cedar ............................................................................................................................ 66
Other toxins ..............................................................................................................
Black bean ...................................................................................................................... 67
Crofton weed and Mistower ............................................................................... 68
Australian stringhalt ................................................................................................. 70
Nightshades .................................................................................................................. 72
Chillagoe horse disease ..........................................................................................75
Avocado .......................................................................................................................... 76
Senna ................................................................................................................................ 77
Red clover and alsike clover ................................................................................. 79
Selenium poisoning ................................................................................................... 81
Privets ............................................................................................................................... 82
Chewing disease ......................................................................................................... 83
Dune onion weed ....................................................................................................... 85
Gomphrena weed ....................................................................................................... 86
Small owered mallow .............................................................................................87
Red maple ...................................................................................................................... 88
Birdsville horse disease ...........................................................................................89
Irritants
Stinging nettles ........................................................................................................... 90
Gympie stinger ............................................................................................................ 91
VIII
Plant associated mycotoxins
Perennial ryegrass staggers ..................................................................................92
Paspalum staggers .................................................................................................... 93
Endophytes and pregnant mares ....................................................................... 94
Aatoxins ....................................................................................................................... 95
Equine leukoencephalomalacia ........................................................................... 96
Lupinosis ........................................................................................................................ 96
Plant associated bacterial toxins
Corynetoxins ................................................................................................................ 97
Ornamental plants ..........................................................................................99
Table of plant features and possible signs of
poisoning ................................................................................................................. 104
Glossary of terms ............................................................................................ 109
Glossary of botanic features ............................................................... 110
References .............................................................................................................. 112
Index ............................................................................................................................. 117
1
The risk to horses from poisonous plants
Put simply, a poisonous plant is one that will have a
detrimental effect on humans or animals if eaten. Plant
toxins act as a chemical defence for the plant and most
poisonous plants contain toxins that evolved to protect the
plant against attack by insects. Some of these toxins are
also poisonous to animals.
There are said to be around 1000 poisonous plants that
grow in Australia. However, not all of these plants are
considered a risk to horses. Some plants contain toxins
that are not thought to affect horse health, some are very
unlikely to be found in areas where horses are kept and
some need to be eaten in such large quantities to induce
poisoning, or so unpalatable to horses, that in practical
terms their risk to horses is virtually non-existent. The
plants described in this book are either known to be
poisonous to horses because poisoning cases have been
well documented, or they are suspected to be poisonous
to horses and are commonly found in areas where horses
are kept.
Horses are grazing animals that have evolved to selectively
browse on pastures that contain a wide variety of plants
and grasses. Domestication has altered the diet of horses,
their daily habits and the environment in which they live
compared to their ancestors. The way that horses and
horse properties are managed can play a major role in
reducing the risk of plant poisoning.
Risk factors for plant poisoning
Type of toxin or toxins: Different plant toxins
have different effects on horses. Some plant toxins
may have mild effects if ingested and some may be
deadly. Plant toxins can affect body systems such as
metabolism, the heart, brain, liver or the skin.
Stage of growth: Some plants contain different
amounts or types of toxins at different stages of
growth.
Season: Some plants are only poisonous at certain
times of the year.
Environmental factors: Environmental factors such
as drought, ooding and re can inuence the growth
of poisonous plants and the amount of toxins that
they might contain.
Fertilisers: The use of fertilisers can cause a ush
in growth of potentially poisonous plants and it can
increase the amount of toxins in some plants.
Herbicides: The use of herbicides can make some
poisonous plants more palatable to horses and these
plants may be eaten when they would otherwise have
been avoided. Wilted or dried poisonous plants are
often just as toxic as fresh plants. Horses should
ideally be removed from pastures that have been
treated with herbicides until the toxic plants are no
longer present.
Part of the plant eaten: The different parts of some
poisonous plants contain different amounts and/or
types of toxins, for example the leaves, roots, bark,
owers and seeds of a plant may contain different
levels of toxins and different types of toxins.
Availability of safe alternative feed: Hungry horses
are more likely to eat plants that they would otherwise
avoid.
Boredom: Horses that have low levels of activity or
low levels of stimulation from their environment may
indiscriminately graze on plants through boredom.
New environment: Horses that have been moved

to a new area may graze on unfamiliar plants. This
factor should also be considered when horses are
transported to events and are housed in unfamiliar
surroundings, even if its only overnight.
Age and general health of the horse: Young and old

animals are often at an increased risk of poisoning if
they eat toxic plant material. A healthy horse is better
able to cope with the effects of a poisonous plant
compared to a horse that is already unwell, is under-
or overweight or has other health concerns.
Exposure to poisonous plants: Most pastures
contain some level of potentially poisonous plants.
A few scattered poisonous plants in a healthy
pasture are not generally a risk. Horses will either
avoid these plants or they will not consume them in
amounts that would cause poisoning. Some plants
however can be toxic if only small amounts are
ingested and others are palatable to horses and may
be grazed preferentially these plants should always
be controlled in horse pastures. Poisonous plants
should be controlled if a horse is kept on degraded
or unhealthy pastures, in a very small paddock or in a
yard. If a horse has little choice of alternative forage,
the risk of poisoning is greatly increased.
Pony club horse yards that have become overgrown with grass and a variety
of weeds during the summer pony club break
2
Controlling poisonous plants
It is good practice to take periodic walks around your
property to check for the presence of potentially
poisonous plants. This will not only reduce the chance
that your horses may be exposed to poisonous plants
but will allow you to keep any potential weed or pasture
problems in check.
Avoid the introduction of weeds
Many poisonous plants are also considered weeds. In the
following section the term weed refers to all invasive
plant species, including ornamental plants, that grow as
weeds in areas where horses are kept.
If your property does not have poisonous weed species
growing in the pasture it is best to try and keep it that
way. There are some simple management techniques that
will help keep your property free of invasive or poisonous
weeds.
Make yourself aware of the weeds and plant species
that can be invasive in pastures and/or poisonous to
horses.
Always be on the lookout for potentially invasive or
poisonous weed species. It is much easier to deal with
these weeds when only a few small plants are in the
pasture, rather than deal with them when they have
spread to become large infestations. Some invasive
weeds can spread from a few isolated plants to become
the dominant species in a pasture in just one season!
Check hay that is to be fed on the ground does not
contain the seeds of potentially invasive weeds.
If you borrow or hire farm machinery such as
mowers, slashers or cultivating equipment, ensure it is
clean before it comes onto your property. The same
applies to situations where you might lend your own
machinery to be used on another property ask that
it be cleaned before it is returned. Weed seeds, root
and stem fragments left on farm equipment is a major
source of the spread of weeds.
Weed seeds, root or stem fragments can also be

introduced onto properties in the mud that is left on
the wheels of vehicles. It is a good idea to remove
mud from your vehicle before driving onto your
property. This is especially important if you have
been in an area where particular weeds that you dont
have, or want, are commonly found.
When introducing new stock to your property,
whether it is a horse or other livestock species, try to
conne the animals in a separate small paddock for
the rst 10 days to 2 weeks after arrival. Weed seeds
can still be viable when passed through an animals
digestive tract. This is especially so for horses as
most weed seeds are unchanged from one end to
the other when they pass through a horse. During
this quarantine period manure can be collected and
disposed of and the paddock can be watched for the
emergence of weeds. Quarantining new animals on a
property is also good practice to minimise the chance
of a new horse spreading disease to other horses on
the property.
Check newly arrived stock for weed seeds that might
be present in their coats, manes, tails or in their
hooves.
Controlling weeds
Integrated Weed Management refers to strategies
that use the greater combined effect of mechanical,
chemical and biological control methods to reduce weed
populations. The best way to control weeds in pastures
and around horse properties is through an integrated weed
management approach.
Pasture management
The establishment of good pastures is one of the best
ways to keep weeds and potentially poisonous plants to a
minimum. Keeping down weeds and poisonous plants is
of course only one benet of maintaining good pastures.
Good pastures will also supply the nutritional needs of
most horses and will reduce the need for supplementary
feeding.
There are many good books on pasture management
available and one excellent resource for information on
growing and maintaining pastures in Australia is the book
Pastures for horses a winning resource (Avery 1996). Advice
on pasture management can also be sought from your
local agronomist.
3
Mechanical control of weeds
Small isolated plants can be pulled out by hand and
this is a cheap and simple method of dealing with
weeds before they spread or become too large to
remove manually. It is always best to use gloves when
hand-removing plants and this is especially important
when handling plants that are poisonous or have
irritant sap, prickles, burrs or stinging hairs.
Mowing or slashing pastures before weed species set
seed can be an important management technique to
control some particular weeds. It is important to get
the timing and cutting height right to ensure the weed
problem is reduced and not made worse! Sometimes
mowing or slashing a paddock only serves to increase
the spread of seed or stem fragments of weed species.
It is always best to consult a local agronomist or weed
management agency before devising a mowing or
slashing program for your property.
Cultivation of paddocks is sometimes the only option

when pastures are degraded and are dominated by
highly invasive weeds. If you decide to start over
with your pasture it is important to plan ahead and
gather as much information and professional advice
as possible before embarking on a complete pasture
renovation.
Grazing management to control poisonous weed species

Sheep, cattle and goats are more tolerant of some
poisonous weed species than to horses. In some
circumstances it may be useful to intensely graze these
animals on infested pastures to control the weeds. Advice
should be sought from a local agronomist or weed
management agency before implementing this weed
control strategy.
The use of herbicides
Herbicides are often an effective way to control individual
weeds or infestations of weeds. It is advisable to contact
a local agronomist or weed management agency before
using herbicides as it is important to select the correct
herbicide and spray program for the individual weed
species and the conditions on your property. It is also
important to ensure that the use of herbicides on your
property will not adversely affect desirable pasture species,
native plants and animals, or the environment, as could
occur when using herbicides along waterways.
Biological control of weeds
Biological control is the use of natural enemies to control
weeds. Many invasive weeds in Australia have been
introduced from other countries but their natural enemies
do not exist here. Biological control of these weeds
usually entails careful planning and research, culminating
in the controlled release of a weeds natural enemy.
Biological controls can be insects that specically feed on
the target weed species or they can be a fungus or other
organisms that cause disease in only the target weed. In
some cases, landowners are able to participate in biological
control programs for certain weeds. More information
on the status of biological controls for particular weeds
can be sought through your local agronomist, weed
management agency or your state Department of
Agriculture.
Disposing of weeds and poisonous plant materials
Individual plants that are pulled from the ground can
be composted if they do not have seeds present or
nodes from which they may shoot new roots.
Individual plants that do have seeds or nodes capable
of shooting new roots should be placed in plastic
bags before disposal.
Large amounts of weed material can be burnt,
composted or taken to council green waste locations.
Ensure that potentially poisonous weeds and the

prunings of ornamental species are not dumped or
composted in horse paddocks. Wilted plant material
is often more palatable to horses than fresh plant
material and the dumping of poisonous plants in
horse paddocks is a signicant risk for poisoning.


4
Naming plants
People usually refer to plants by their common name and
most of the time the use of common names for plants
is appropriate. However the use of common names can
sometimes lead to confusion over plant identity because
some plants share common names, some plants have
multiple common names and some plants have common
names that are only used in particular geographic areas.
Fortunately there is a system of plant naming that may
look confusing at rst but it greatly reduces confusion
over plant identication. This system is called Binomial
Nomenclature and it was rst developed in the 1750s
Plants are grouped according to shared characteristics and
all plants are assigned a botanical name (scientic name)
that consists of two latin words. The rst word indicates
the genus to which a plant belongs and the second word
indicates the species of a plant.
Plants that are in the same genus are closely related
and they have similar characteristics. The species name
indicates a grouping of plants within a genus that have
identical features or close to identical features. Genera
that possess similar characteristics are grouped into
families.
You will notice in this book that some plants have
been given multiple botanical names. This is because
taxonomists are constantly rening the relationships
between plants, and the recent development of DNA
techniques has been particularly helpful in establishing the
similarities and differences between groups of plants. As
new information has been discovered, plants may have
been allocated to a different genus or to an entirely new
genus in some cases. Some species have been split into
two or more new species and some groups of species
have been combined. The old or alternative names have
been included in this book in cases where plants have
been recently renamed or in cases where there may still be
confusion over a plants botanical name.
Each plant described in this book is given the following
naming information:
Common name
(other common names)
Botanical name (other botanical names or older names if
applicable) [family]
Example
Crofton weed
(catweed, sticky eupatorium, Mexican devil, sticky
snakeroot)
Ageratina adenophora (also known as Eupatorium adenophorum,
Eupatorium glandulosum or Eupatorium pasdadense)
[Asteraceae]
Some notes about plant names
The plural of the word genus is genera. The word
species applies to both the singular and the plural but their
abbreviations are different. The singular abbreviation for
species is sp and the plural abbreviation for species is spp, so
Crotalaria sp is used when referring to a particular unspecied
species of Crotalaria and Crotalaria spp is used when referring to
several unspecied Crotalaria species or all species of Crotalaria.
It is a plant naming convention to express both the genera and
the species names in italics. In this book italics are used for
genera and species, except when referring to plants using their
genera as a common name. For example: it is appropriate to
write both there are several species of Crotalaria in the pasture
and there are several crotalarias in the pasture. In the second
phrase crotalarias is used as a common name for the plants
and italics are not used. This use of genera as a common name
without italics is in line with the plant naming conventions of
many horticultural societies but not all taxonomists agree with
this convention.
5
Identifying plants
Poisonous plants do not, unfortunately, have any particular
characteristics that indicate their potential toxicity.
The identication notes in this book are designed to assist
in the identication of potentially poisonous plants. Some
of these plants can be easily identied from the notes
and from the photos. Other plants are more difcult
to identify and further research may be needed before
undertaking any action to either remove or keep particular
plants in horse areas.
It is important to correctly identify plants that are
potentially poisonous for reasons that include:
Mistakes in identication can be dangerous to horses
if poisonous plants are mistakenly identied as safe
plants.
Mistakes in identication can result in wasted money,
time and effort if safe plants are removed from horse
areas on the mistaken belief that they are poisonous.
Some genera contain both poisonous species and
Australian native species that are not poisonous
but are vulnerable or endangered. In particular, the
genera Indigofera, Swainsona and Crotalaria contain toxic
species and non-toxic species that are vulnerable or
endangered. All of the plants in some genera are
considered toxic to horses, for example Solanum and
Senecio, however these genera also include Australian
native species that are vulnerable or endangered. A
positive identication of a suspect plant will ensure
that the correct management technique is undertaken
that will keep horses safe from poisoning and will
preserve plants that are vulnerable or endangered.
The avenues through which you can seek help in
conrming the identity of a plant include:
A reputable gardening or botanical book.
A reputable website that has information on plant
identication, for example Australias Virtual
Herbarium <http://www.chah.gov.au/avh/>.
Knowledgeable staff at nurseries or garden centres.
A local agronomist.
Your state Department of Agriculture.
Your state Herbarium.
Some of these agencies provide plant identication
services and a fee may or may not be charged. It is
usually free to use the public reference collections that
some of these agencies provide. You can nd out more

information on plant identication services by contacting
the appropriate agency by phone or via the Internet.
The more information that you can gather about a plant,
the better your chances of identifying it quickly and
accurately. Always collect a sample of a plant to assist in
identication and samples can be sent by mail to some
agencies.
Plant sample preparation:
The sample should consist of a small branch or a
portion of stem that is around 30 cm long and has
leaves, owers and/or fruit still attached.
Collect the whole plant if it is small. This is
particularly important for grasses.
Where appropriate, collect tubers or bulbs with all or
part of the plant attached. Collect a sample of the
roots and the fronds when seeking the identity of a
fern.
Collect a sample of the buds, fruit, young leaves and
adult leaves when seeking the identity of a tree. Make
a note of information such as the bark type, the size
and growth characteristics of the tree and the habitat
in which the tree is growing.
If you are mailing a sample to an agency that offers
a plant identication service they will usually want
you to provide information that includes the date and
location of collection of your specimen as well as
details of the habitat in which the plant was growing.
Samples should be pressed and dried before mailing to
ensure that they are not destroyed by mould and that
mould does not pose a health risk to the person who
opens the package containing your sample. Samples
can be pressed between sheets of newspaper. Loose
seeds or fruits can be put into separate paper bags or
envelopes.
The pressed and dried plant sample should be packed
with cardboard to prevent damage. Samples should
not be stuck onto paper.
Plant sample preparation information supplied by the Botanical Information Service,
National Herbarium of NSW,
Botanic Gardens Trust,
Mrs Macquaries Road
Sydney 2000
Fax 02-9251 1952
<http://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/information_about_plants/botanical_info/plant_
identication>

6
Using this book
Toxicity information on poisonous plants
The information on plant toxins presented in this book is
intended to give the reader some background information
on how toxins cause poisoning in horses and the signs
that might be seen in horses that have ingested plant
toxins. This information may also help the reader when it
is necessary to undertake a paddock inspection to locate
a plant that may have caused poisoning symptoms in a
horse. The information on the toxicity of plant toxins and
the signs that might be seen in poisoned horses should not
be used to diagnose or treat a horse that may have been
poisoned by the ingestion of toxic plants.
ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR VETERINARIAN IF PLANT POISONING IS SUSPECTED IN A HORSE.
How to nd plants in this book
The index containing plant names at the back of this book
will make nding a plant of interest easy if you know
its name. If you need to identify a plant that is growing
in your paddock the tables on pages 104-108 show plant
characteristics that should guide you towards the correct
identity of the plant.
Distribution maps
The distribution map alongside each plant description
is meant to serve as a general guide to the areas within
Australia in which the plant might be found.
The management notes presented in this book are
intended to serve as a guide to some simple management
techniques that can be used to control poisonous plants
or to protect horses from exposure to poisonous plants.
Some of the practices included in the management notes
for particular plants in this book may not represent
Management notes
Underneath most of the distribution maps is a brief note
on the type of habitat in which the plant is usually found
growing.
suitable practice for all horse farms or for all situations.
It is important to seek local expert advice before
implementing farm management tasks, particularly when
intending to use herbicides or when employing practices
that may be detrimental to pastures, the environment or
animal health.
Danger icons
The coloured horse icons are meant to serve as a basic guide
to the degree of danger that particular plants pose to horses.
Highly dangerous
Plants with a red icon are those
known to be highly toxic to horses,
are commonly found in areas where
horses are kept and/or they are
palatable to horses. Plants that are
so toxic that only small amounts of the plant will cause
severe poisoning if ingested may also have a red icon.
These plants should always be removed from horse areas
or they should be fenced off to restrict horses access to
the plants. When fencing off highly toxic plants, ensure
that horses cant reach the plant through the fence and that
leaves or fallen branches can not end up where a horse
might access them. Prunings or clippings of highly toxic
plants must never be placed in horse paddocks.
Moderately dangerous
Plants with a blue icon are those
that are known to be toxic to horses
but are not commonly eaten, are
only toxic under certain conditions,
or are not commonly found in
horse areas. Plants that do not cause serious poisoning in
horses but are commonly found in pastures may also have
a blue icon.
These plants should be controlled or completely removed
from horse areas. Management practices should be
implemented to ensure that these plants do not become
the dominant species in pastures.
Mildy dangerous
Plants with a yellow icon are
those that only cause mild and
transient poisoning in horses. A
yellow icon might also be assigned
to those plants that rarely cause
poisoning in horses and are not
commonly found in horse areas, or to plants that must be
ingested in very large quantities before poisoning occurs.
These plants should be controlled where practical and
horses should be watched for potential signs of poisoning
if the plant grows in horse areas.
Check the glossary!
If you see a term in this book that you are unfamiliar with,
check to see if it is included in the glossary on page 109.
7
Alkaloids
Pyrrolizidine
Alkaloids
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids
Many plants throughout the world
contain toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids
and they are among the most common
poisonous plants that affect horses and
other livestock. Most plant species
that contain these toxins are bitter and
are generally avoided by horses. The
ingestion of hay or other feedstuffs
that have been contaminated with
these plants is said to be the most
common source of pyrrolizidine alkaloid
poisoning. During periods of drought
horses may consume pyrrolizidine
alkaloid plants if little other forage
is available. Toxic seeds of some
pyrrolizidine alkaloid-containing plants
may contaminate feed grains in some
seasons.
The toxicity of pyrrolizidine alkaloid
plants varies markedly and some plants
may be more toxic in certain seasons or
at certain stages of growth.
The pyrrolizidine alkaloids themselves
are not toxic. They are absorbed
through the gut and are transported
Signs of pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning
Acute poisoning Affected horses
have rapid, progressive liver failure
and may die within days or weeks
of ingestion of pyrolizidine alkaloid
plants.
Signs of acute poisoning may include:
Food refusal
Depression
Jaundice (characterised by a
yellow colouring of the mucous
membranes)
Abdominal swelling
Signs of colic
Behavioural changes that may
include nervousness or excitability
Death can occur in severe cases
Horses showing advanced signs of
acute pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning
rarely recover. Veterinary attention
should be immediately sought if
poisoning is suspected in a horse.
Treatment and supportive care may
increase the chance of survival and
help with the subsequent recovery.
via the bloodstream to the liver. The

alkaloids react with substances in the
liver and both toxic and non-toxic
forms of the alkaloids are produced.
The non-toxic chemicals are excreted
and the toxic chemicals either remain
in the liver where they interfere with
vital cell functions leading to the death
of liver cells, or they are transported to
other parts of the body, for example
the lungs and kidneys. The extent of
damage to the liver or to other organs
depends upon the particular type of
pyrrolizidine alkaloid ingested and the
amount of toxin ingested. Most of the
pyrrolizidine alkaloid plants that cause
illness in horses primarily affect the
liver, and affected animals show signs
of progressive liver disease.
Pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning
can be acute or chronic, with
the acute form being much less
common. Acute poisoning can occur
through the accidental ingestion of
signicant amounts of toxic plants in
contaminated hay or feed, or a horse
may suffer acute poisoning when
environmental conditions have allowed
pyrrolizidine alkaloid plants to become
the dominant species in pasture.
Chronic poisoning occurs when the
horse ingests small amounts of the
plants over time.
The onset of signs of chronic
pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning can
be delayed, occurring at a time when
the animal no longer has access to the
hazardous plants. This can make it
difcult to determine when and how
a horse was exposed to the toxins. It
is thought that the toxic effects of
pyrrolizidine alkaloids are cumulative
and that the toxins may stay in the liver
and continue to cause damage even
when access to the plants has been
removed.
A comprehensive liver function test can
assist in the diagnosis of pyrrolizidine
alkaloid poisoning in a horse showing
signs.
Chronic poisoning Signs may not
appear for months or even years after the
ingestion of pyrrolizidine alkaloid plants.
As loss of liver function gradually
progresses, there is a corresponding
progression in the severity of symptoms.
When the liver is damaged to a critical
point, liver failure progresses rapidly and
death can occur soon after.
Signs of chronic poisoning may include:
Food refusal
Depression
Increasing signs of jaundice
Loss of condition
Secondary photosensitisation
redness and swelling of the skin edness and swelling of the skin
in unpigmented areas. The nose,
lips and around the eyes are areas
commonly affected. The skin may
crack and weep uid.
Yawning
Head pressing - the horse may
push its head against a wall or
other surface
Incoordination
Aimless wandering
Death can occur in severe cases
There is no specic treatment for
chronic pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning.
Removal of the plants from the diet
can slow the progression of symptoms.
Horses with photosensitisation should
be kept out of the sun to help the skin
heal. Veterinary attention should be
sought if chronic poisoning is suspected
in a horse. Horses showing signs of
advanced liver disease have little chance
of survival.
This horse is suffering crotalaria poisoning and is

displaying head pressing behaviour.
Photo: Susanne Hourigan
8
Alkaloids
Pyrrolizidine
Patersons curse
(salvation Jane, Lady Campbell weed, purple bugloss, Riverina bluebell)
Echium plantagineum [Boraginaceae]
Patersons curse is native to the Mediterranean
region. It is a major weed of Australia pastures
and it is a declared noxious weed in all states
except Queensland and the Australian Capital
Territory.
In recent times Patersons curse has been a
particular problem for horse owners in some
parts of Australia. The plant is usually unpalatable
but horses will eat it if there is little other
available forage. Patersons curse can dominate
pastures and this is especially so in degraded
pastures, such as those affected by drought, re
or overgrazing. Patersons curse contains up to
ten types of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids and the
weed has been associated with many horse deaths
in recent years. All parts of the plant are toxic
and the toxicity is not lost in dried plants.
Growth and identication
Patersons curse is a short-lived winter annual
or biennial that grows to 90 cm in height.
The plant produces numerous seeds that can
accumulate in the soil and remain dormant for
many years. Seeds can be easily spread to new
areas through water run-off, as contaminants of
transported hay and grain or through animal and
vehicle movements. The seeds usually germinate
following rain in summer or autumn.
During winter Patersons curse grows as rosettes.
The leaves of the rosettes are hairy and oval or
oblong in shape. The leaves can grow to 30 cm
in length and they have distinct branched veins.
Flowering occurs in early spring with the
appearance of several upright owering stems
that grow from the middle of the rosette. The
branched stems are covered in stiff hairs. The
leaves on the stems are hairy and are smaller and
narrower than the leaves of the rosette. The leaves
are arranged alternately along the stem and they
decrease in size towards the ower. The leaves are
held close to the stem and they do not have stalks.
The owers are tube-shaped and are usually
purple or blue, but white and pink owers are
occasionally seen. Each ower has 5 fused petals
and is 2 3 cm long. The owers have 5 stamens
and 2 of these extend beyond the ower tube.
Patersons curse seeds are around 3 mm long and
are brown, grey or black. They are three-angled
and have a wrinkled and pitted surface.
Weed of pastures, grasslands,
open woodlands, roadsides,
parklands and gardens.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with Patersons curse.
Check hay for Patersons curse contamination.
Individual plants can be pulled out by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide. Remove plants at
rosette stage for the best results. Ensure all parts of the plant are removed from the ground.
The use of herbicides for larger infestations is most effective when the plant is in the rosette
stage. Seek advice from a local agronomist or weed management agency to select the most
appropriate herbicide and spray program for your property.
The establishment of competitive pastures can control Patersons curse.
Minimise summer and autumn grazing pressure on lightly infested pastures as this will maintain a
good ground cover and will prevent Patersons curse from establishing in bare patches.
Check for Patersons curse seed in seed batches bought for sowing crops and pasture.
Graze adult non-pregnant goats or sheep on heavily infested pastures as they are more tolerant
of pyrrolizidine alkaloids and will readily eat the weed. Heavy grazing by these species in spring
and early summer can suppress seed set in Patersons curse. Do not leave these animals on the
infested pasture continuously as toxicity problems can occur.
Photos: Matthew Smyth

9
Alkaloids
Pyrrolizidine
Crotalarias
Plants in the Crotalaria genus are known as the
rattlepods because the seeds rattle inside the
dried inated seedpod when shaken.
Some crotalarias are known to contain
pyrrolizidine alkaloids and several species have
caused cases of poisoning in Australian horses.
A horse poisoned by the pyrrolizidine alkaloids
in crotalarias is said to be suffering crotalism,
walkabout disease or Kimberly horse disease.
Two species of crotalaria contain an unknown
toxin that causes a disease known as Chillagoe
horse disease and this is discussed on page 75.
The incidence of horse poisoning cases caused
by the ingestion of crotalarias has decreased over
the past 50 years. This is due to an increased
awareness of the potential toxicity of the plants
and the subsequent implementation of horse
management techniques that reduce horses
exposure to crotalarias. Poisoning cases are still
occasionally reported and crotalaria poisoning
can be a signicant problem for horse owners in
northern regions of Australia where crotalarias
are common, particularly when those areas are
affected by drought.
Crotalarias that contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids
are usually unpalatable but horses will eat the
plants if other forage is scarce. Some crotalarias
can become the dominant species in pastures
that are degraded by drought, re or overgrazing.
Crotalarias may also be found as contaminants
of hay. The seeds of some crotalaria can
contaminate feed grains, particularly sorghum.
Not all species of Crotalaria contain toxic
pyrrolizidine alkaloids and the amount of toxins
in crotalarias varies between species. More than
forty species of crotalaria grow in Australia and
around eighteen of these are native Australian
species. Not all crotalarias have been tested for
alkaloid content and although all species should
be regarded as potentially toxic to horses, it is
advisable to seek a positive identication of the
species before removing crotalarias from pastures.
The crotalarias most commonly associated
with poisoning in horses is C. crispata and C.
ramosissima, both commonly called Kimberly
horse poison. Other species that have been
associated with horse poisoning cases, or are
known to contain toxic alkaloids are listed below.
Identication note: distinguishing between the
different species of Crotalaria can be extremely
difcult and only a very basic description is
given here. See page 5 for more information on
obtaining a precise identication of a plant species.
Two general characteristics of plants in the genus
Crotalaria are their pea-shaped owers that are
yellow in all but one species and their seedpods
that are usually inated when dried.
Kimberly horse poison
Crotalaria crispata and Crotalaria ramosissima [Fabaceae]
Identication note: Crotalaria crispata and
Crotalaria ramosissima are very difcult to tell apart,
with Crotalaria crispata having the larger calyx
lobes (the bracts that hold the ower).
Above and right, Crotalaria crispata
Photos: Susanne Hourigan
Grey rattlepod
C. dissitiora [Fabaceae]
Mostly upright annual that grows 30 - 40 cm.
Hairy stems. The leaves have 3 oval leaets up to
3.5 cm long. Flower spikes appear at the tips of
branches in summer to early winter. Numerous
yellow pea-shaped owers. Produces hairy pods.
Native Australian species.
This map shows the
general distribution of
crotalarias. Individual
species may not occur in
all of the areas shown on
the map.
Crotalarias can be found in
pastures, crops, grasslands,
open woodlands,
roadsides, parklands and
gardens.
Annual or short-lived perennials that grow to
50 cm. The stems lie on the ground and grow
upwards at the tips (decumbent). The oval to
wedge-shaped, grey-green leaves can be up to
2.5 cm long. Flower spikes appear at the tips of
branches from spring to late summer. Numerous
yellow pea-shaped owers. Produces hairy pods.
Native Australian species.
10
Alkaloids
Pyrrolizidine
Narrowleaf rattlepod
Crotalaria linifolia [Fabaceae]
Erect annual that grows 50 cm 1 m. Hairy 1 m. Hairy 1 m. Hairy
stems and leaves. The leaves are narrow and
grow 2 3 cm long by 3 mm wide. Flower spikes
Yellow rattlepod
Crotalaria mitchellii [Fabaceae]
Upright perennial shrub that grows to 1 m. The
oval leaves are hairy on the lower surface and can
grow to 8.5 cm long by 4 cm wide. Flower spikes
Showy rattlepod
Crotalaria spectabilis [Fabaceae]
Upright annual that grows 1 2 m. Stems and 2 m. Stems and 2 m. Stems and
leaves are hairless. The lower surface of the
leaves is sometimes hairy. The leaves are oval
and are up to 10 cm long by 4 cm wide. Flower
Purple-owered rattlepod
Crotalaria verrucosa [Fabaceae]
Annual that grows to 80 cm in height. The leaves
are broadly oval and are up to 7 cm long by 2
cm wide. Flower spikes appear at the tips of the
Streaked rattlepod
Crotalaria pallida [Fabaceae]
Upright annual or short-lived perennial that
grows to 3 m. Leaves have 3 egg-shaped leaets
up to 7.5 cm long. Flower spikes appear at the
tips of the branches from autumn to spring.
Sunhemp
Crotalaria juncea [Fabaceae]
Upright annual that grows to 2 m. Leaves are
long and narrow and grow to 6.5 cm long by
0.5 cm wide. Flower spikes appear at the tips of
Wedge-leaf rattlepod
Crotalaria retusa [Fabaceae]
Upright annual that grows to 1 m. Leaves can be
up to 8 cm long and they are dark green on top
and paler below. The leaves are wedge-shaped.
Crotalaria montana [Fabaceae]
This variable species can be annual or perennial
and prostrate (creeping) or upright. Grows to
1 m when upright. Leaves can be oblong to
elliptical and can be up to 4.5 cm long by 0.8 cm
appear at the tips of the branches. Numerous
yellow pea-shaped owers. Produces egg-shaped
black pods. Native Australian species.
appear at the tips of the branches. Numerous
yellow pea-shaped owers. Produces hairless
greenish-grey pods. Native Australian species.
spikes appear at the tips of the branches in
summer and autumn. Numerous yellow pea-
shaped owers. Produces a black pod that can be
up to 6.5 cm long. Introduced species.
branches. Numerous blue or purple pea-shaped
owers. Produces oblong-shaped pods that have
brownish hairs. Native species.
Numerous yellow pea-shaped owers with
reddish-brown streaks. Produces hairy pods that
are brown or mottled yellow and dark green.
Introduced species.
the branches in autumn and winter. Numerous
yellow pea-shaped owers that have a faint purplish
blush. Produces black pods. Introduced species.
Flower spikes appear at the tips of the branches.
Numerous yellow pea-shaped owers. Produces
purple-black pods. Native Australian species.
wide. Flower spikes appear at the tips of the
branches from late summer to winter. Numerous
pale yellow pea-shaped owers. Produces dark
grey to blackish pods. Native Australian species.
New Holland rattlepod
Crotalaria novae-hollandiae [Fabaceae]
Upright or spreading perennial that grows to
1.5 m. Stems covered in long silky hairs. Oval
or triangular hairy leaves up to 12 cm long and
4.5 cm wide. Flower spikes appear at the tips of
the branches for most of the year but mainly in
autumn to spring. The numerous pea-shaped
owers are yellow with darker streaks. Produces
hairy pods up to 4.5 cm.
11
Alkaloids
Pyrrolizidine
Crotalaria brevis
[Fabaceae]
Annual stems and perennial rootstock. Prostrate
(creeping), growing to 30 cm in height. The
stems and leaves have long white-reddish
coloured hairs. The leaves are lance-shaped and
can be up to 2.5 cm long by 0.5 cm wide. Flower
Bluebush pea
Crotalaria eremaea
Upright perennial that grows to 2 m. The leaves
have 1 3 oblong leaets that can be up to
4 cm long. Flower spikes appear at the tips of
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with crotalaria.
Improve pastures to increase desirable grasses.
Isolated small plants can be pulled out by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide.
The use of herbicides can be an effective control measure for larger infestations. Seek advice
from a local agronomist or weed management agency to select the most appropriate herbicide and
spray program for your property.
spikes appear at the tips of the branches from

summer to winter. Numerous crowded yellow
pea owers that have darker yellow markings.
Produces brown hairless pods. Native Australian
species.
the branches in summer and autumn. Numerous
yellow pea owers. Produces yellow pods. Native
Australian species.
Crotalaria spectabilis (showy rattlepod)
Photo: Ken Harris
Crotalaria pallida (streaked rattlepod)
Photo: Ken Harris
12
Alkaloids
Pyrrolizidine
Senecios
There are several thousand species of Senecio
worldwide, of which around fty are native
to Australia. Many introduced senecios have
become important agricultural weeds in Australia
and others have been cultivated as garden plants.
Senecios contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids and their
ingestion poses a potential risk to horses. The
plants are usually unpalatable and are unlikely
to be consumed in amounts that would cause
poisoning. Horses may eat senecios if other
fodder is scarce and the plants may contribute to
pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning when consumed
along with other toxic plants in horse grazing
areas. The contamination of hay or other
feedstuffs with senecios can pose a risk for
poisoning.
Ragwort
(tansy ragwort, common ragwort, stagger wort, stinking willy, St James wort)
Senecio jacobaea [Asteraceae]
Ragwort is native to Europe and western Asia.
Ragwort is commonly found as a weed in
pastures and it can become the dominant species
in degraded pastures. It is a declared noxious
weed in Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales,
South Australia and Western Australia.
Ragwort is a long-lived perennial that grows
to 1.2 m. The plant produces numerous seeds
that can be spread by wind, water run-off, as
contaminants of transported hay and grain or
through animal and vehicle movements. The
plant can also spread when root and crown
segments are broken off and dispersed by
cultivation or other practices that move soil.
Young plants form a rosette of leaves. One or
more upright stems grow from the centre of the
rosette as the plant matures. The ribbed stems
are branched towards the top of the plant and
they are covered in cottony hairs when young.
The stems are often red or purple towards the
base of the plant.
The leaves are dark green and hairless on
the upper surface and lighter green and hairy
underneath. The stem leaves can be up to 15 cm
long and most do not have a stalk. The leaves of
the rosette can be up to 35 cm long and they are
attached to the plant by a stalk that can be 1 3 33
cm long. The edges of the leaves are distinctly
rufed and convoluted. The plant gives off an
unpleasant smell when damaged.
Ragwort usually owers in summer. The owers
are bright yellow and are arranged in dense
clusters at the tops of the branches. The owers
are around 2 cm in width and they have 12 15 15 15
petals that can be up to 1 cm long. Green bracts
that are tipped with black or brown surround the
owers and each ower has many small orets
in the centre. Small brown seeds are formed as
owering nishes. Some seeds have a ring of ne
white hairs at the top and some seeds are hairless.
Weed of pastures, open
woodlands, waterways and
occasionally crops.
Fireweed
(Madagascar ragwort, senecio amarillo)
Senecio madagascariensis [Asteraceae]
Fireweed is native to southern Africa and
Madagascar. The plant has spread rapidly in
Australia, particularly in the past 30 years, and it
is a signicant problem for farmers. Fireweed
is a declared noxious weed in Queensland, New
South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory and
Western Australia.
Fireweed is a short-lived annual that grows
10 50 cm tall. In good seasons the plant can
behave as a short-lived perennial. Fireweed
produces numerous seeds and most of these are
Fireweed
Photo: Paul McGreevy. Courtesy University of Sydney
13
Alkaloids
Pyrrolizidine
spread by wind. Seed can also be spread by water
run-off, as contaminants of transported hay and
grain or through animal and vehicle movements.
The plant can occasionally spread when root and
crown segments are broken off and dispersed by
Fireweed can have one main stem or several
stems and each stem has many branches towards
the top of the plant. The leaves are alternately
arranged along the stem and both the leaves and
stem are hairless, or have a sparse covering of
hairs. The leaves are 2 12 cm long and up to 12 cm long and up to 12 cm long and up to
2.5 cm wide. Their broad base wraps around
the stem and the edges of the leaves are usually
serrated but can sometimes be smooth.
Flowering can occur 6 10 weeks after 10 weeks after 10 weeks after
germination in favourable conditions and several
generations of the plant can be produced over
one season. Flowering usually occurs from late
autumn through to early summer but some plants
may ower in late summer. The owers are
yellow and are loosely clustered at the tops of the
branches. The owers are up to 2 cm in width
and they have 12 15 petals that can be up to
1.4 cm long. Green bracts surround the owers
and each ower has many small orets in the
centre. As owering nishes small brown seeds
are formed. The seeds are covered in tiny hairs
and are topped with a silky tuft of hairs.
woodlands, parklands and
roadsides.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested
with senecio.
Check batches of hay and chaff for senecio contamination.
Individual plants can be pulled out by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide. Remove plants in the
early growing stages for best results. Ensure all parts of the plant are removed from the ground.
The use of herbicides on larger infestations is most effective when the plant is in the small
seedling to early owering stages. Seek advice from local agronomist or weed management
agency to select the most appropriate herbicide and spray program for your property.
Minimise grazing pressure on infested pastures to maintain a good ground cover year-round and
prevent reweed from establishing in bare patches.
Graze adult non-pregnant goats or sheep on heavily infested paddocks as they are more tolerant
to pyrrolizidine alkaloids and will readily eat the weeds. Do not leave these animals on the
infested pasture continuously as toxicity problems can occur.
Fireweed
Fireweed
14
Alkaloids
Pyrrolizidine
Heliotrope poisoning in horses is not commonly
seen in Australia. Many heliotrope species
are known to contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids
and they are potentially toxic to horses. The
plants are usually unpalatable and are unlikely
to be consumed in amounts that would cause
poisoning. Horses may eat heliotropes if other
fodder is scarce and the plants may contribute to
pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning when consumed
along with other toxic plants in horse grazing
areas. The contamination of hay or other
feedstuffs with heliotropes can pose a risk for
poisoning.
Blue heliotrope
(wild verbena, clasping heliotrope, purpletop, turnsole, wild heliotrope, creeping heliotrope)
Heliotropium amplexicaule [Boraginaceae]
Blue heliotrope is native to South America.
The plant is drought tolerant and it can quickly
become the dominant pasture species when
it rains after a prolonged dry period. Blue
heliotrope is a declared a noxious weed in New
South Wales and Western Australia.
Blue heliotrope is a summer-growing perennial
that grows to 30 cm in height. The plant
produces a large number of seeds that can
be easily spread through water run-off, as
through animal and vehicle movements. The
plant can also spread when root and crown
segments are broken off and dispersed by
Blue heliotrope has prostrate (creeping), branched
stems that can grow up to 1 m long. The stems
are green and are covered in hairs.
The leaves are hairy and are a dull green colour
on the upper surface and lighter green on the
lower surface. They are elongated and can grow
Common heliotrope
(potato weed, European heliotrope, Barooga weed, Wanderie curse, bishops beard, caterpillar weed)
Heliotropium europaeum [Boraginaceae]
Common heliotrope is native to Europe, western
Asia and northern Africa. Common heliotrope
is drought tolerant and once established it can
ourish during dry hot summers when other
desirable crop and pasture species fail to thrive.
It is a declared noxious weed in Western Australia
and Tasmania.
Common heliotrope is a short-lived annual that
grows to 30 cm in height. The plant produces
numerous seeds that can be spread by animals,
water run-off or as contaminants of hay or grain.
The plant has upright or semi-upright branched
stems. The leaves are greyish-green and are
arranged alternately along the stems. The stems
and leaves are covered in coarse hairs. The oval
or egg-shaped leaves can grow to 9 cm long and
3 cm wide. The leaves are attached to the stems
by stalks that are up to 4 cm long.
The owers are tube-shaped and are white with a -shaped and are white with a shaped and are white with a
distinctive yellow throat. Each ower is 2 3 mm 3 mm 3 mm
long and the owers are arranged in 2 rows along
one side of a curved ower spike.
to 8 cm long and 2 cm wide. They are alternately
arranged along the stems and are attached
without stalks. The leaves have prominent veins
and are wavy along the edges.
The plant produces a ush of growth from
autumn to spring and owering usually occurs
from November through summer into early
autumn. In some areas the plant can ower at
any time of year. The tube-shaped owers can be
purple, lilac, blue or pink in colour and each has
a distinctive yellow throat. The owers are 4 6 66
mm long and are arranged in 2 rows along one
side of a curved ower spike.
Heliotropes
Weed of pastures crops,
roadsides, parklands and
gardens.
Weed that favours bare,
disturbed ground such as
fallow areas. Also found
in crops, pastures and on
roadsides. Photo: Ken Harris
Photo: Sheldon Navie
15
Alkaloids
Pyrrolizidine
Heliotropium ovalifolium
(Also known as Heliotropium coromandelianum var. ovalifolium or Heliotropium gracile)
[Boraginaceae]
This native heliotrope grows throughout
northern Australia, Asia and Africa. In the late
1990s the plant was implicated as the source of
pyrrolizidine alkaloids that caused the death of a
number of horses on a property in the Kimberly
region of Western Australia.
Heliotropium ovalifolium is a perennial that can grow
15 80 cm in height.
The plant has a branched, semi-upright to
spreading growth habit. The smaller branches are
covered in curled hairs. The leaves are grey-green
in colour and are covered in ne hairs that may
be curled. The leaves grow to 7 cm long and 2
cm wide.
The owers are tube-shaped and are white to
pale yellow. Each ower is up to 5 mm long and
owers are arranged along one side of a curved
ower spike.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with heliotropes.
Check batches of hay and chaff for heliotrope contamination.
Minimise grazing pressure on infested pastures to maintain a good ground cover year-round and
prevent heliotropes establishing in bare patches.
to pyrrolizidine alkaloids and will readily eat the weed. Do not leave these animals on the infested
pasture continuously as toxicity problems can occur.
Individual plants can be pulled out by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide. Remove plants in the
early growing stages for best results. Ensure all parts of the plant are removed from the ground.
The use of herbicides on larger infestations is most effective when the plant is in the small
seedling to early owering stages. Seek advice from a local agronomist or weed management
agency to select the most appropriate herbicide and spray program for your property.
Found on coastal plains

and dunes, seasonally wet
areas, pastures, grasslands
and waterways.
16
Alkaloids
Pyrrolizidine
Amsinckias
(Amsinckia, yellow burrweeds, ddlenecks)
Amsinckia calycina, Amsinckia lycopsoides, Amsinckia intermedia and Amsinckia menziesii [Boraginaceae]
There are 4 species of Amsinckia in Australia. It
is currently thought that these plants may not
be separate species but different forms of one
species. For the purposes of this book they will
be discussed as one species.
Amsinckias are native to North America and
South America. Amsinckias are important weeds
of crops and pastures. They are declared noxious
weeds in Victoria, South Australia and Western
Australia.
Amsinckias are usually unpalatable to horses
and are unlikely to be consumed in amounts
that would cause poisoning. Horses may eat
amsinckias if other fodder is scarce and the plants
may contribute to pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning
when consumed along with other toxic plants
in horse grazing areas. The main risk for horse
poisoning by amsinckias is through their potential
to contaminate grain. They are an important
cause of poisonings in horses in other countries
but there have been no conrmed reports of
horse deaths from amsinckias in Australia.
Amsinckias are short-lived perennials that grow
20 70 cm tall. The plants germinate in autumn
giving them a competitive advantage over other
desirable species that germinate later in the
year. The seeds are contained in a burr that can
become attached to animals and can be dispersed
to new areas. Seed can also be spread by vehicles
and clothing and as contaminants of cereal crops.
The young plants form rosettes from which
owering stems are produced as the plant
matures.
The plants have upright or semi-upright stems
that are branched or unbranched. The stems are
covered in long stiff hairs and short soft hairs.
The green leaves can grow to 20 cm long and
2 cm wide and they are covered in stiff hairs.
The rosette leaves are generally the largest and
they have short stalks. The stem leaves have no
stalks and they are alternately arranged along the
stem. The leaves are lance-shaped and have a
pointed tip.
Flowering occurs from late winter to spring. The
owers are tube-shaped and are yellow or orange.
Each ower is up to 1.5 cm long and the owers
are arranged along one side of a 5 15cm long
curved ower spike.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with amsinckia.
Check feed grains for amsinckia seeds. Amsinckia seeds are contained in a group of 4 nutlets
that each contain a seed and are around 2 3.5 mm long. The nutlets are brown or black and
have a rough surface. The nutlets are surrounded by spiny bracts to form a burr. Grain can
contain the burr or the released nutlets.
Individual plants can be pulled out by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide.
The use of herbicides on larger infestations can be an effective control measure. Seek advice
to pyrrolizidine alkaloids and will readily eat the weed. Do not leave these animals on the infested
pasture continuously as toxicity problems can occur.
Mow or slash pastures before owering to reduce seed production. If done repeatedly this
practice will deplete the soil seed bank.
Cropping areas: repeated harrowing before crops are sown can destroy amsinckia seedlings.
Planting pasture legumes on land used for cereal crops can suppress amsinckia establishment in
between crops.
Some species of Amsinckia

are found in isolated
pockets of Western
Australia, Tasmania and
the Northern Territory.
A. menziesii is the only
amsinckia that grows in
Victoria.
Weeds of cereal crops,
pastures and roadsides.
Photo: Ken Harris
17
Alkaloids
Tryptamine
Phalaris grasses contain tryptamine
alkaloids. Most phalaris species are
harmless to horses and phalaris grasses
are valuable grazing species for all
livestock in Australia. However two
closely-related phalaris species, blue
canary grass and paradoxa grass, have
been implicated in the death of a small
number of horses in Australia. All
commercially available phalaris grass
seed is the species Phalaris aquatica and
this grass does not contain toxins.
Signs of tryptamine alkaloid poisoning
Blue canary grass
Phalaris coerulescens [Poaceae]
Blue canary grass is native to the Mediterranean
countries Madeira and the Canary Islands. It is a
major weed in winter crops and pastures.
Blue canary grass is a short-lived perennial,
surviving for 3 4 years. It grows vigorously in
autumn and spring, especially after rain. The grass
continues its growth through winter and it has a
summer dormancy period. In cool, high rainfall
areas the grass maintains growth through summer.
Blue canary grass can grow to 1.5 m tall. The
green stems grow from a crown that is mostly
In most reported poisoning cases
the horse has been found dead in the
paddock after no apparent ill health.
In a few cases an owner has been
present at the time that their horse
died. These owners have reported
that there was nothing to indicate their
animal was unwell before a sudden
onset of symptoms. One horse
became suddenly unsteady, collapsed
Since the early 1980s there have been
sporadic reports of horse deaths in
Australia that have been attributed to
blue canary grass, with cases occurring
in New South Wales, Victoria and
South Australia. In 1999, three horses
died suddenly on a farm in Narrabri,
New South Wales and their deaths were
linked to paradoxa grass. Other horse
deaths related to paradoxa grass have
been occasionally reported in Australia.
Blue canary grass and paradoxa grass
are thought to contain alkaloids closely
related to tryptamine alkaloids. Rapid
growth after rainfall is thought to
increase the amount of tryptamine-type
alkaloids in these grasses.
The action of the toxins found in these
grasses is unknown, as post-mortems
of affected horses have not shown
conclusive ndings. It is thought that
the cause of death might have been
sudden heart failure.
and died. Another horse apparently
reared before collapsing and dying. A
third horse became excited while being
moved from a paddock, galloped for
about 400 m, collapsed and died.
Tryptamine alkaloids
Weed of crops, pastures,
waterways and roadsides.
above ground. Many buds develop at the crown
during spring growth and these buds are the
source of new growth in the following autumn.
The numerous leaves of blue canary grass are
greenish blue in colour and they are mostly
upright.
Flowering occurs in late spring. The owering
seed heads of blue canary grass are upright,
cylindrical in shape and are up to 14 cm long and
1 2 cm wide.
The seed heads are green, with blue or purple
coloured tips.
Paradoxa grass
Phalaris paradoxa [Poaceae]
Paradoxa grass is native to the Mediterranean
region. It is a major weed in winter crops and
pastures.
Paradoxa grass is an annual. It grows mainly in
winter and spring, and can grow vigorously after
rain. The seeds germinate in autumn to early
winter.
Paradoxa grass can grow up to 1 m tall. The
green stems grow from a crown that is mostly
below the ground. The numerous leaves of
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with blue canary grass or paradoxa grass, especially
when these grasses are rapidly growing.
Weed of crops pastures,

paradoxa grass are greenish blue in colour and are
mostly upright.
Flowering occurs in late spring. The owering
seed heads of paradoxa grass are cylindrical in
shape and are 18 cm long and 1.5 - 2.5 cm wide.
The seed heads are green, with blue or purple
coloured tips.
Identication note: Distinguishing between
different grasses can be extremely difcult and
only a very basic description is given here. See
page 5 for more information on obtaining a
precise identication of a plant species.
18
Alkaloids
Indolizidine
Indolizidine alkaloids
Many plants worldwide contain
indolizidine alkaloids. The most
signicant indolizidine alkaloid plants
that are potentially toxic to horses in
Australia are in the Swainsona genus of
plants. These plants contain several
indolizidine alkaloids but the most
important in regard to toxic effects is
called swainsonine.
Swainsona species are related to other
swainsonine-containing genera such as
Astragalus and Oxytropis. These plants
cause livestock poisonings in many
countries and they are known as loco
weeds in North America.
The species of Astragalus found in
Australia do not produce toxic amounts
of swainsonine and there are no species
of Oxytropis that grow in Australia.
Swainsonine is readily absorbed
from the digestive tract and is rapidly
Signs of indolizidine alkaloid poisoning
Signs of poisoning do not usually
occur until after the horse has
consumed plants containing
swainsonine for at least 3 4 weeks.
Depression
Circling
Incoordination
Unpredictable behaviour some
horses may fall down or rear while
being ridden or otherwise handled
As the disease progresses horses
become increasingly depressed
and some horses may be so

depressed that they appear to be
asleep.
The horse may become too weak
to stand.
In severe cases the horse may
suffer convulsions followed by
coma and death.
There are no current treatment options
that have proven to be effective for
swainsonine poisoning.
Swainsonas
There are around eighty-ve native species
of Swainsona in Australia. Some of these are
considered valuable as fodder for stock in arid
areas and some have been cultivated as garden
plants. The group contains the iconic Australian
owering plant, the Sturts desert pea, Swainsona
formosa.
Most swainsonas are considered safe as they
contain low levels of swainsonine. The
swainsonas that have been implicated in the
poisoning of horses and other livestock in
Australia are Swainsona galegifolia, S. canescens, S.
luteola, S. greyana and S. procumbens.
Swainsonas are palatable and horses may eat the
plants when growth is abundant. Some horses
may selectively graze swainsona, even when other
distributed throughout the body.
Swainsonine induces a condition known
as lysosomal storage disease.
The toxin inhibits the action of two
important enzymes and this causes the
accumulation of a particular protein-
carbohydrate molecule in cells of the
brain and other organs. This leads
to nerve cell damage that is largely
irreversible.
If access to swainsonine-containing
plants is restricted when symptoms
rst appear there is a good chance
the horse could make a full recovery.
However, if the symptoms are not
recognised and the horse continues
consuming swainsonine plants the
damage to the brain may be too
extensive for the horse to fully
recover. Such horses are dangerous
to ride or handle because of their
ongoing unpredictable behaviour.
pasture is available. Swainsonas can be found in
pastures, crops, grasslands, open woodlands and
roadsides.
different species of Swainsona can be extremely
difcult and only a very basic description is
given here. See page 5 for more information
on obtaining a precise identication of a plant
species.
Swainsonas are perennial or sometimes annual
plants that develop quickly after spring or autumn
rains and can dominate pastures during these
times. They have colourful pea owers and they
produce seedpods.
Smooth darling pea
Swainsona galegifolia (also known as Swainsona queenslandica) [Fabaceae]
Smooth darling pea is a perennial that grows to
1 m in height. The plant has arching stems. The
leaves are around 10 cm long and are made up of
20 25 leaets that are arranged along the leaf
stem in pairs. The stems are usually hairless.
The plant owers in spring. The pea-shaped
owers appear in clusters of about 20 and ower
colour varies from white to deep red. Pink and
mauve owers are the most common colours.
The plant produces leathery pods that can be up
to 4 cm long.
19
Alkaloids
Indolizidine
Hairy darling pea
Swainsona greyana
Hairy darling pea is a perennial that grows to
1.5 m in height. The leaves are approximately
15 cm long and are made up of 17 21 leaets
that are arranged along the leaf stem in pairs.
The stems are covered in hairs.
owers appear in clusters of about 20 and they
can be white, pink or purple. Some parts of the
owers are covered in hairs. The plant produces
hairless seedpods that can be up to 5 cm long.
Grey swainsona
Swainsona canescens
Grey swainsona is a perennial that grows to
60 cm or taller in favourable conditions. Grey
swainsona has upright or prostrate (creeping)
stems.
The leaves are up to 12 cm long and are made
up of around 10 oblong-shaped leaets that are
arranged along the stem in pairs. The leaves and
leaf stems are covered in white or cream coloured
hairs.
The plant owers from May through to
December. The pea-shaped owers appear
in clusters of 20 35 and are mostly purple,
pink, yellow or green. The plant produces hairy
seedpods that can be up to 1.5 cm long.
Hairy darling pea
Photo: Ken Harris
Broughton pea
Swainsona procumbens
Broughton pea is a low, spreading perennial that
grows 30 50 cm in height. The stems can
be hairless or covered in tiny hairs. The leaves
are up to 15 cm long and have up to 25 leaets
arranged on opposite sides of the leaf stems.
The leaets are up to 2.5 cm long.
owers appear in clusters of 2 12 and are
mostly purple, mauve or pink. The plant
produces seedpods that can be hairless or sparsely
covered in hairs. The seedpods can be up to
4 cm long.
Dwarf darling pea
Swainsona luteola
This perennial plant grows to 50 cm high. The
stems are prostrate (creeping) or semi-erect and
they are sparsely covered in hairs. The leaves
are up to 10 cm long and have up to 17 leaets
arranged on opposite sides of the leaf stem. The
leaets are around 2 cm long and 1 cm wide.
owers appear in clusters of 5 15 and are
mostly purple or occasionally yellow. The plant
produces a seedpod that is oblong in shape and is
up to 3.5 cm long. The seedpod is hairless or has
a sparse covering of hairs.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pasture infested with swainsona.
Closely monitor horses for behavioural changes if consumption of swainsona plants is suspected.
Broughton pea
Photo: Ken Harris
20
Alkaloids
Taxine
Taxine alkaloids
Taxine alkaloids are found in the
evergreen trees or shrubs of the Taxus
genus. These are known as yews and
the species grown most commonly in
Australia is the English yew. All Taxus
species should be considered poisonous
to horses.
Horses will not intentionally eat the
unpalatable leaves or seeds from yew
trees. Most horse poisoning cases have
occurred when clippings from yew
trees have been placed in horse areas.
Yew leaves mixed with the clippings
of other plants or grass are a particular
risk to horses.
The taxine alkaloids found in yews are
cardiotoxins, which means that they act
upon the heart. All parts of the plant
are toxic and mature leaves in winter
are reported to be the most toxic.
Horses are highly susceptible to
poisoning by taxine alkaloids and only
small amounts need be ingested for
death to occur. One report in the
literature describes the death of a pony
within 1! hours of ingesting only
160 g of Japanese yew leaves.
Signs of taxine alkaloid poisoning
In many reported poisoning cases
paddock. The rst signs of poisoning
may appear within an hour of
ingesting material from a yew tree and
the progression of symptoms is rapid.
Decreased tone in the lips and tail
Decreased blood ow - difcult
to nd an arterial pulse
Incoordination, staggering and
trembling
The horse may appear paralysed.
Breathing becomes difcult and
noisy
In the nal stages the horse will

collapse and die, either from heart
failure or respiratory failure
There is no specic treatment for yew
poisoning in horses and in most cases
death is likely to occur within
12 hours. Veterinary attention should
be immediately sought if it is suspected
that a horse has suffered yew tree
poisoning and supportive care may help
with survival and subsequent recovery.
The horse should be conned to a
quiet area and handling should be
minimised, as stress can precipitate
heart failure. The administration of
activated charcoal may stop further
absorption of toxins from the gut.
The placement of a stomach tube
would likely be too stressful for
the affected horse, so the activated
charcoal should be added to feed
and the horse should be gently
encouraged to eat.
If the animal survives beyond 12
hours and symptoms improve there is
a chance of full recovery.
English yew
Taxus baccata [Taxaceae]
English yew is native to Europe
English yew is an evergreen tree that can grow
to 20 m in height. The tree has a dark trunk that
is quite thick in mature plants. The needle-like
leaves are dark green and are glossy on the upper
surface and paler green on the lower surface.
English yew owers in spring. Male and female
owers are borne on separate plants. The male
owers appear as clusters of small scaly cones
that turn yellow on maturity. The female owers
are very small solitary green cones. The female
trees produce berries that are up to 1.2 cm in
diameter. The berries are cup-shaped, eshy and
red in colour.
Management notes
Yew trees are not suitable for planting in
paddocks, along paddock fences or in areas
where horses are kept.
Do not dispose of yew tree clippings in areas
where horses could access them.
Yew trees and shrubs

are commonly grown in
cool temperate areas of
Australia as hedges, garden
ornamentals, park trees and
street trees.
Photo: Ken Harris
21
Alkaloids
Tropane
Tropane alkaloids
Tropane alkaloids are found in
several plants that commonly grow in
Australia. Some of these plants grow
as weeds and some are grown as garden
ornamentals.
Cases of horse poisonings by tropane
alkaloid plants are uncommon
because horses will not usually eat the
unpalatable plants. Most reported
cases occur through the ingestion of
contaminated hay or other feedstuffs.
Horses may eat the plants if no other
forage is available.
Tropane alkaloids are anticholinergenic,
which means that they reduce the
metabolic effects of an important
compound called acetylcholine. This
compound stimulates muscles to
contract and it is important for brain
activity and normal nerve function.
The properties of the tropane alkaloids
in some plants have made them useful
in human medicine.
Signs of tropane alkaloid poisoning
The signs and severity of tropane
alkaloid poisoning varies between cases
because of the variability in the type
and amount of tropane alkaloids in
particular plants. The signs that may
be seen in a case of poisoning include:
Loss of appetite
Depression
Colic
Rapid pulse and respiratory rate

Dilated pupils
Excessive thirst
In severe cases death may occur
within minutes, hours or days of
ingesting the toxic plant material.
Death can be due to respiratory
paralysis, heart failure or rupture
of the stomach.
A full recovery is the usual outcome

in mild cases. Veterinary attention
should be sought if tropane alkaloid
poisoning is suspected in a horse. The
treatment options may include the
administration of activated charcoal
to stop further absorption of toxins
and the administration of drugs and
supportive therapy.
Field bindweed
(common bindweed, morning glory, eld morning glory)
Convolvulus arvensis [Convulvulaceae]
stalks that are up to 6 cm long. The owers are
white to pale pink and they can sometimes have
a streaked appearance. Each ower is only open
for one day.
The plants produce fruit that is a smooth, egg-
shaped capsule with a slightly pointed tip. The
capsule is up to 8 mm across and it turns brown
as it matures.
Field bindweed is native to Europe, Asia and
northern Africa. Field bindweed is a declared
noxious weed in Victoria, South Australia and
Western Australia.
No cases of eld bindweed poisoning have been
reported in Australia. The plant is suspected of
causing tropane alkaloid poisoning in a group of
thirteen horses in the United States and has been
shown to be toxic to mice when fed in high doses
in toxicity studies.
Field bindweed is a creeping vine that can grow
along the ground or on support. The ribbed
climbing stems are usually 1 3 m long but can
be up to 7 m long. The vine produces seeds that
can be spread by animal and vehicle movements
and as contaminants of hay or grains.
Root segments can spread by cultivation or other
practices that move soil.
The leaves are alternately arranged along the stem
and they can be up to 6 cm long by 3 cm wide. The
leaves are triangular or shaped like an arrowhead.
The vine owers in spring to early autumn with
most owers appearing in summer. The owers
are tubular and they grow where the leaves meet
the stem. They have 5 fused petals and are on
Weed of pastures,
grasslands, crops, gardens
and roadsides.
Photo: Ken Harris
Identication note: Vines in the genus Ipomoea
are, like eld bindweed, known by the common
name morning glory. These plants should not
be confused with Convolvulus arvensis. See
22
Alkaloids
Tropane
Thornapples
Datura spp [Solanaceae]
The plants in the Datura genus are commonly
known as thornapples. There are several native
thornapples but most of the species that grow in
Australia were introduced as garden ornamentals.
Some are still cultivated for gardens but many
species have escaped to become important
weeds of pastures and crops. The following
thornapples are declared noxious weeds in several
states: erce thornapple (Datura ferox), downy
thornapple (Datura inoxia), native thornapple
(Datura leichhardtii), hindu thornapple (Datura metel),
common thornapple (Datura stramonium) and hairy
thornapple (Datura wrightii).
Thornapples are unpalatable to horses but they
may be eaten if other forage is scarce. The plants
can sometimes be found as contaminants of hay.
Thornapples are summer growing annuals. They
range in height from 50 cm to 2 m but most grow
to around 1 m.
The stems and leaves can be hairless or hairy,
depending on the species. The leaves are
alternately arranged along the stem. The edges
of the leaves are usually smooth or they are lobed
in some species. The leaves of most species are
egg-shaped or triangular and the leaves have an
unpleasant odour when damaged.
The characteristic features of thornapples are
the showy trumpet owers and the large seed
capsules that appear after owering. The tubular
Management notes
Ornamental thornapples are not suitable for planting in paddocks, along paddock fences or in
areas where horses are kept.
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with thornapples.
Check hay for thornapple contamination.
Isolated small plants can be pulled out by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide, preferably before
the plant has set seed.
owers appear singly in the forks of the branches.

The owers of most species have 5 lobes, although
the number of lobes can range from 3 to 9. The
owers can be a range of colours depending on
the species. Most of the thornapples that grow as
weeds have white owers but some species have
purple or lilac owers.
Thornapples produce seed capsules that are
usually rounded or egg-shaped and they can
be up to 5 cm across. The capsules are usually
covered in spines.
This map shows the
general distribution of
the thornapples that are
commonly found as pasture
weeds. Individual Datura
species may not occur in
all of the areas shown on
the map.
Thornapples can be
found in pastures, crops,
grasslands, roadsides
and waterways. Some
thornapples are grown as
garden ornamentals.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with eld bindweed.
Check hay for eld bindweed contamination.
Individual plants can be pulled by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide. Ensure all plant material
is removed as the vine can regrow from root fragments.
The use of herbicides can be an effective control measure for larger infestations. For best results
the plant should be treated when actively growing. Seek advice from a local agronomist or weed
management agency to select the most appropriate herbicide and spray program for your property.

23
Alkaloids
Tropane
Angels trumpet
Brugmansia spp [Solanaceae]
Brugsmansias are natives to South America and
most are known by the common name angels
trumpet. They are grown in Australia as garden
ornamentals and some species have naturalised in
some areas of Australia.
Angels trumpets are perennial shrubs or small
trees that can grow to 5 m but most are around
3 m in height. They have a spread of up to 4 m,
depending on the species.
The leaves are large and may be up to 30 cm long
in some species. The leaves are oval or oblong
in shape and they usually have toothed or wavy
edges.
The owers usually appear in spring or summer
and they are distinctly trumpet shaped. The
owers can be up to 30 cm long and the colours
include white, red, purple, orange, pink or yellow.
Garden ornamentals.
Management notes
Angels trumpets are not suitable for planting in paddocks, along paddock fences or in areas
Poison corkwood is native to Australia.

Poison corkwood is a shrub or tree that can grow
to 9 m in height.
The leaves are elliptical in shape and they are
4 15 cm long by 1 4 cm wide. The leaves are
arranged alternately along the stem.
The bark of the tree is thick and corky and is
yellowish-brown to pale grey in colour.
Poison corkwood owers in winter and spring.
The clustered owers usually form a broad
pyramid shape at the ends of the branches. The
numerous small owers are white with mauve
streaking on the inside surface. The owers have
Poison corkwood
(corkwood, eye opening tree, yellow basswood)
Duboisia myoporoides [Solanaceae]
Grows in native bushland
and on the edges of
rainforests. It is sometimes
cultivated in gardens.
5 petals. The plant produces a rounded berry
that is dark purple-black.
24
Alkaloids
Tropane
Corkwood
(poisonous corkwood, Queensland Duboisia, yellow basswood)
Duboisia leichhardtii [Solanaceae]
Corkwood is native to Australia.
Corkwood is a shrub or tree that can grow to
7.5 m in height.
The leaves are elliptical in shape and they are
3 8.5 cm long by 0.5 2 cm wide. The leaves
are arranged alternately along the stem. The bark
of the tree is thick and corky.
Management notes
Corkwoods are not suitable for planting in paddocks, along paddock fences or in areas where
horses are kept.
Corkwoods should be removed from horse paddocks if present.
Grows in native bushland

and on the edges of
rainforests. It is sometimes
cultivated in gardens.
Corkwood owers mainly in winter. The
owers appear in open clusters at the ends of
the branches. The numerous small owers are
creamy white. The owers have 5 petals that
are longer and more slender than the petals of
poison corkwood.
The plant produces a rounded berry that is dark
purple-black.
25
Alkaloids
Piperidine
Piperidine alkaloids
Piperidine alkaloids occur in plants of
the genera Nicotiana and Lupinus and in
the plant Conium maculatum (hemlock).
Only hemlock will be discussed in this
section. Nicotiana plants contain mostly
pyridine alkaloids and these plants are
discussed on page 29. Lupins contain
mostly quinolizidine alkaloids and these
plants are discussed on page 26.
Hemlock contains several piperidine
alkaloids and the plant is highly
poisonous to all species, including
humans. The plant is unpalatable and
cases of hemlock poisoning in horses
are uncommon.
Ingested piperidine alkaloids in hemlock
are rapidly absorbed from the gut into the
bloodstream. The alkaloid initially has a
stimulating effect, followed by a longer-
lasting depression of nerve function.
Signs of piperidine alkaloid poisoning
Muscle weakness
Incoordination staggers
Slobbering
Rapid pulse
Dilated pupils
Frequent urination and defecation
A distinctive mousey odour on
the breath
In severe cases the horse may die

from respiratory failure
There is no specic treatment available
for hemlock poisoning in horses but
supportive veterinary care can assist
with survival and subsequent recovery.
An affected animal should be kept calm
and should be contained in a safe area
to avoid injury brought about by its
incoordination. Veterinary attention
should be immediately sought if it is
suspected that a horse has suffered
hemlock poisoning. If the symptoms
improve and respiratory failure does
not occur there is a good chance that
the horse will make a full recovery.
Hemlock
(fools parsley, poison root, carrot fern, winter fern, California fern, wild carrot, wild parsnip, wode whistle)
Conium maculatum [Apiaceae]
Hemlock is native to Europe, Asia and Africa.
Hemlock is a declared noxious weed in Victoria,
New South Wales and Western Australia.
Hemlock is rarely grazed and the main danger to
horses is through contamination of hay, chaff or
other feedstuffs. Horses may consume hemlock
if other forage is scarce.
Hemlock is a short-lived biennial or annual plant
that grows 1 2 m tall. The plant produces seed
that can be spread by vehicle movements, water
run-off, wind, or as contaminants of transported
hay and grain. The seeds germinate in autumn
and can grow rapidly after autumn rains,
crowding out other species.
The upright, branched stems of hemlock are
hollow and are pale green with distinct purple
blotches. The hairless leaves are carrot-like and
are alternately arranged along the stem. The
leaves can grow up to 50 cm long by 40 cm wide
and they have long, hollow leaf stalks. The upper
surfaces of the leaves are dark green and the
undersides are light green or greyish-green.
The stems and leaves of hemlock give off a
strong odour when damaged. Some describe it as
a mousey smell.
Flowering occurs in spring and summer. The
owers are white or greenish-white and are
2 4 mm across. The owers are arranged at the
ends of stalks in clusters that form an umbrella
shape. Individual owers have 5 petals.
Identication note: Hemlock is often confused with
Bishops weed (Ammi majus). The main differences
are that Bishops weed has solid stems that do not
have purple blotches and the plant does not have a
mousey smell when damaged.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with hemlock.
Check hay and other feedstuffs for hemlock contamination.
Individual plants can be pulled by hand or spot sprayed with herbicides. Use heavy rubber gloves
to prevent contamination from plant toxins.
Hemlock does not persist in cultivated ground. Disk plough heavily infested paddocks before the
weed has owered and topdress to encourage new growth of desirable pasture species.
Weed of oodplains,
marshes, moist gullies,
forest edges, crops,
pastures, roadsides and
waterways.
Above: Hemlock ower.s
Right: Bishops weed owers
26
Alkaloids
Quinolizidine
Quinolizidine alkaloids
Quinolizidine alkaloids occur in many
plants in the legume family. The
quinolizidine-containing plants that can
be found in Australia are from the genera
Lupinus (excluding those grown for food),
Laburnum, Cytisus and Genista (the plants
in the latter two closely-related genera are
generally known as brooms).
The seeds and seedpods contain
the highest concentration of toxic
quinolizidines but the leaves are also
toxic. Some of these plants also contain
piperidine alkaloids, see page 25.
Plants containing quinolizidine alkaloids
are usually unpalatable to horses
and poisoning cases are uncommon.
There have been no reported cases of
quinolizidine alkaloid poisoning of
horses in Australia. The toxins most
commonly affect sheep and major
losses in this species can occur though
quinolizidine alkaloid poisoning,
especially in the northern hemisphere.
Lupins and brooms that grow as weeds
in pasture can sometimes be found
as contaminants of hay and this can
pose a risk to horses as the toxicity of
quinolizidine alkaloids is not lost in
dried plants.
Quinolizidine poisoning in horses is
not fully understood but the toxins are
thought to affect the normal function
of the nervous system and possibly the
gastrointestinal system.
Signs of quinolizidine alkaloid poisoning
Poisoning of horses by quinolizidine
alkaloids has not been well described
in the literature and this probably
reects the infrequency of its
occurrence. The signs that may be
seen in horses include:
Muscle tremors
Loss of appetite
Incoordination
Diarrhoea
Severely affected animals may die
from respiratory failure
Veterinary attention should be sought

if quinolizidine poisoning is suspected
in a horse. Treatment and supportive
care will help with recovery.
Lupins
Lupinus spp [Fabaceae]
Lupins are native to North and South America
and the Mediterranean region. Several species
of lupins grow in Australia, some as ornamental
garden plants and some introduced lupins have
naturalised to become weeds. The lupins grown
for human or livestock feed are low-alkaloid
varieties and they do not cause quinolizidine
poisoning.
Management notes
Ornamental lupin species should not be grown in areas where
horses are kept.
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with lupins.
Check hay for lupin contamination.
Individual plants can be pulled out by hand or spot sprayed with
herbicide.
The use of herbicides can be an effective control measure for
larger infestations. Seek advice from a local agronomist or weed
management agency to select the most appropriate herbicide and
Lupins that contain

quinolizidine alkaloids can
be found growing as weeds
in pastures, crops, roadsides
and waterways. Lupins
are also commonly grown
in gardens as ornamental
species.
Lupins are adaptable plants
that can be found growing
in most areas of Australia.
Lupinus arboreus. Photo: Sheldon Navie
Lupinus cosentinii. Photo: Sheldon Navie
Lupinus luteus, a low-alkaloid species of lupin.
Lupins can be annual or perennial and can grow
to 1 m in height. The leaves are alternately
arranged along the stem on long stalks. The
leaves are fan-shaped and have 5 13 leaets.
Lupins ower in summer. The colourful pea-
shaped owers are arranged along a centre stem
that can be up to 40 cm long. The plant forms
pods that are at and oblong in shape.
27
Alkaloids
Quinolizidine
Golden chain tree
Laburnum anagyroides [Fabaceae]
Golden chain tree is native to Europe and it is
grown in Australia as an ornamental garden tree.
Golden chain tree is deciduous and it usually
grows to around 7 m in height.
and they can be up to 8 cm long. The leaves
consist of 3 oval-shaped leaets.
Management notes
Golden chain tree is not suitable for planting in paddocks, along paddock fences or in areas where
horses are kept.
Do not dispose of golden chain tree clippings in areas where horses could access them.
Brooms
Plants in the genera Cytisus and Genista are
generally known as brooms and they are similar
in appearance. Some plants in these genera are
cultivated as garden ornamentals and some are
important weeds of pastures.
The plants are usually unpalatable and are
generally thought to be low in toxins. The main
English broom
(Scotch broom, broom)
Cytisus scoparius [Fabaceae]
English broom is native to Europe, Asia and
Russia. The plant is invasive and is an important
weed in pastures. It is a threat to Australian
native bushland areas and it has been declared a
noxious weed in all states except the Northern
Territory and Queensland.
English broom is an upright perennial shrub that
usually grows 1 - 2 m in height but can be up to
4 m. The plant produces seedpods that burst
open to spread the seed. Seed can also be spread
by water run-off, as dumped garden waste, as
through animal and vehicle movements.
The stems are numerous, woody and green to
brownish in colour. The stems are ridged and
angular.
The leaves appear singly or in clusters and are
attached to the stem by short stalks. The leaves
are covered in soft hairs underneath and have
scattered hairs on the top surface. The leaves
are bright green and are composed of 3 leaets,
with the centre leaet being the largest. Where
new growth occurs the leaves appear singly. The
leaets are oval to lance-shaped and the largest
leaets are up to 2 cm in length.
Flowering usually occurs from spring to early
summer but owers may appear at any time
throughout the year. The plant has bright yellow
pea-shaped owers and some owers may have
red markings in the centre. Flowers occur singly
or in pairs and grow from the angle between the
leaf stalks and the stem. The plant produces
seedpods that are hairy on the edges. The
seedpods are at and green, turning to black
or brown as they mature. The seedpods ripen
in summer and burst open to release the seed.
Some seedpods curl once the seed has been
released.
risk for horse poisoning is through their potential
to contaminate hay.
All plants in these genera should be considered
unsuitable to be grown in areas where horses are
kept. Described below are two species of broom
that are commonly found as pasture weeds in
Australia.
Most common in
cool, humid areas in
the southern states of
Australia. Grown as a
garden ornamental and
street tree.
woodlands, bushland,
Despite its declared weed
status the plant is often
grown in gardens as an
ornamental species and a
hedge plant.
Golden chain tree owers from spring to early
summer. The tree is known for its distinctive
showy yellow owers. The pea-shaped owers
grow in drooping clusters that can be up to 30
cm long.
The tree produces seedpods that can be up to 6
cm long.
28
Alkaloids
Quinolizidine
Montpellier broom
(cape broom, canary broom, French broom, Madeira broom, broom)
Genista monspessulana (also known as Cytisus monspellulanus, Teline monspessulana) [Fabaceae]
Montpellier broom is native to the Mediterranean
and Middle Eastern regions. It is invasive and
is an important weed in pastures. It has been
declared a noxious weed in all states except the
Northern Territory and Queensland.
Montpellier broom is an upright and spreading
shrub that usually grows 1 2 m in height but
can be up to 3 m. The plant produces seedpods
that burst open to spread the seed. The seeds can
be ejected to a distance of up to 3 m from the
plant. Seed can also be spread by water run-off,
as dumped garden waste, as contaminants of
vehicle movements
Montpellier broom usually has one main woody
stem that has many branches. The young stems
have ridges along their length and are
covered in soft hairs.
The leaves are alternately arranged along
the stems on short stalks. The leaves
are covered in soft hairs underneath and
have scattered hairs on the top surface or
may have a hairless surface. The leaves
are composed of 3 leaets and the centre
leaet is usually the largest. The leaets are
oval to egg-shaped and the largest leaets
are up to 3 cm in length.
Flowering usually occurs in late winter and
spring. The plant has bright yellow pea-shaped
owers that occur singly or in small clusters.
The owers occur at the tips of the stems and
along the branches of the main stem. The plant
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with broom.
Check hay for broom contamination.
Broom should not be grown as an ornamental plant in areas where horses are kept.
Isolated small plants can be pulled out by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide, preferably before the
plant has owered. Mature plants can be cut to the base and the stump painted with herbicide.
The use of herbicides can be an effective control measure for larger infestations. The
plants should be sprayed while actively growing. Seek advice from local agronomist or weed
management agency to select the most appropriate herbicide and spray program for your
property.
Some success can be achieved with controlled burning followed by herbicide treatment of new
seedlings. Seek advice from the local council regarding regulations and from a local agronomist
or weed management agency regarding the best method and timing for this technique.
Slashing pastures when broom seedlings are between 5 and 10 cm high can provide some degree
of control of the weed.
produces brown or black seedpods that are

covered in soft hairs. The seedpods contain 5 8
seeds and the pods become distinctly coiled after
they burst to release the seeds.
woodlands, waterways and
roadsides.
29
Alkaloids
Pyridine
Pyridine alkaloids
Pyridine alkaloids occur in many plants
in the genera Nicotiana and Lobelia.
Some Nicotiana species (tobaccos) also
contain piperidine alkaloids, see
page 25.
Poisoning of horses by pyridine
alkaloid plants is very rare and the
only documented case occurred in the
United States when horses were housed
in barns containing harvested tobacco
plants (Nicotiana tabacum). Cattle and
sheep have reportedly been poisoned
after the ingestion of native tobacco
plants in Australia. There have been no
reports of lobelia poisoning in horses.
Although poisoning of horses by
pyridine alkaloids is rare, all plants
containing these toxins should be
considered poisonous. The plants are
unpalatable but may be consumed by
hungry horses if no other forage is
available.
The main pyridine alkaloid in tobaccos
is nicotine. Lobelias contain similar
toxins to those in tobaccos but they are
considered to be less toxic.
A high dose of pyridine alkaloids mainly
affects the central nervous system but
the heart and gastrointestinal tract are
also affected.
Signs of pyridine alkaloid poisoning
Muscle tremors and weakness
Excitement
Increased breathing rate
Incoordination
Coma, paralysis and death in severe

cases
Mildly to moderately affected animals
usually make a complete recovery.
Affected animals should be kept
in a quiet, safe area and veterinary
attention should be sought.
Tobacco
Nicotiana spp [Solanaceae]
Around seventeen species of tobacco grow in
Australia.
Tobaccos are annuals or short-lived perennials.
The plants can be low growing herbs or spindly
shrubs. The leaves of tobacco are variable in size
and shape depending on the species but they are
usually dull green in colour.
The owers occur singly in the fork of the leaves
or they may be borne on a ower spike. The
owers are enclosed at the base by a tubular fused
bract that has 5 lobes. The owers are tubular
and they have 5 lobes. The owers can be pale
green, white, cream or yellow in colour.
The plants produce fruit capsules in the ower
bracts as owering nishes.
Management notes
Do not graze horses on pastures infested with tobaccos or lobelias.
Tobaccos and lobelias should not be grown as ornamental plants in areas where horses are kept.
Lobelia
Lobelia spp [Lobeliaceae]
Around twenty species of native lobelia grow in
Australia. Some of these are cultivated as garden
ornamentals and some are considered weeds in
some areas.
Plants in the Lobelia genus can be annual or
perennial herbs. Lobelias are usually hairless and
the stems are upright or they can be prostrate.
and the edges of the leaves are usually toothed.
The owers appear at the ends of the stems and
they can appear in a group of owers or they can
be solitary. The owers have a short tube that
spreads into lobes. The tube is split almost to
the base on the upper side to form 2 lips. The
upper lip is erect or it bends back towards the
stem. The lower lip has 3 spreading lobes.
The plants produce a fruit capsule that contains
many seeds.
Tobaccos can be found
in all states. Cultivated
tobacco (N. tabacum) are
grown in subtropical and
warm temperate regions.
Garden ornamentals,
weeds and native bushland
plants. Lobelias can be
found in all states.
Nicotiana glauca (tree tobacco). Photo: Ken Harris
30
Glycosides
Cyanogenic
Glycosides
Cyanogenic glycosides
Cyanogenic glycosides are responsible
for plant-related cyanide poisoning.
The toxins are present in varying
amounts in many plants and under
certain conditions some plants can
accumulate the toxins.
Plants containing cyanogenic glycosides
are usually unpalatable but cases of
poisoning in horses have been reported
in Australia. Cyanogenic glycosides
can convert to the deadly toxin cyanide
(also known as prussic acid). This
conversion takes place under the
inuence of certain plant enzymes.
The enzymes and cyanogenic glycosides
are both present in the plant material
but they are found in separate cell
compartments. Chewing, crushing,
trampling or grinding the plant material
exposes the cyanogenic glycosides to
the enzymes, leading to the production
of cyanide.
Cyanide is quickly absorbed from
the gastrointestinal tract into the
bloodstream. Once in the blood it
travels all over the body and inhibits
blood cells from delivering oxygen
to tissue cells. The blood becomes
supersaturated with oxygen and appears
bright red. However tissue cells are
simultaneously starved of this oxygen.
Factors that affect the toxicity of plants
containing cyanogenic glycosides:
A high nitrogen to phosphorus
ratio in the soil favours cyanogenic
glycoside formation in plants.

Plant species containing cyanogenic
glycosides have different levels of
the toxins depending on the stage
of growth. In general the highest
toxin levels are present when the
plant is young and/or rapidly
growing.
Wet leaves, such as from dew or
rain, are considered more toxic
than dry leaves.
Some herbicides can increase both
the toxicity and the palatability of
cyanogenic glycoside plants.
Environmental stresses such as
drought or frost can promote the
formation of cyanogenic glycosides.
Signs of cyanogenic glycoside poisoning

Acute poisoning - signs develop
rapidly after ingestion of the toxic
plant material, with the rst signs
appearing within 10 minutes to an
hour. Cases of acute cyanogenic
glycoside poisoning are more
commonly seen in cattle than in
horses.
The signs that may be seen with acute
cyanide poisoning in horses include:
Rapid breathing (hyperventilation)
Low blood pressure
Mucous membranes are
characteristically bright red
Convulsions
Coma, respiratory failure and
death
In the most severe cases it may only be
a matter of minutes between the onset
of symptoms and death and in other
cases there may be 1-2 hours before
death occurs. In many reported cases

of acute cyanogenic glycoside poisoning
paddock.
If a veterinarian attends the horse in
the early stage of acute poisoning there
are steps that can be taken that may
save the horse. Among the treatment
options is the administration of either
sodium nitrate or methylene blue.
These compounds can remove cyanide
from the blood to allow the delivery of
oxygen to the tissues. If either of these
compounds is rapidly administered
there is a chance the horse will recover.
Once the horse shows signs of severe
breathing difculties it is unlikely to
survive.
Chronic poisoning - chronic cyanide
poisoning can occur if a horse
consumes small amounts of cyanogenic
glycoside plants over time. It is thought
that low levels of cyanide damage
parts of the spinal cord and long
nerves.
The signs that may be seen with
chronic cyanide poisoning include:
Hindlimb incoordination that is
more noticeable when the horse is
backed or turned
Urinary incontinence
Constipation
Weight loss
The horse may develop urinary
tract infections that can be severe
Animals affected by chronic cyanide
poisoning usually make a slow
recovery once access to cyanogenic
glycoside plants has been removed.
The prognosis may not be so good if
hindlimb incoordination is advanced
and/or serious urinary tract/kidney
problems have developed.

31
Glycosides
Cyanogenic
Prunus
(includes plums, peaches, apricots, cherries, nectarines and almonds)
Prunus spp [Amygdalaceae] [Amygdalaceae]
Many species of Prunus are grown in Australia,
either as orchard fruits or as garden ornamentals.
The ingestion of only small quantities of prunus
leaves can be enough to cause poisoning in
horses. Estimates on exactly how much is too
much varies but the consensus in the literature is
that horses should be restricted from ingesting
any amount of prunus leaves. Cyanogenic
glycoside levels are highest in prunus leaves when
they are damaged or stressed from frost, storms,
drought or seasonal wilting.
The Prunus genus contains trees or shrubs that are
mostly deciduous. The plants produce blossoms
that are usually pink or white. The blossoms
appear in spring before the appearance of new
leaves. The plants produce eshy fruit that is
usually indented on one side and many of these
fruits are edible.
Management notes
Prunus trees or shrubs are not suitable for
planting in paddocks, along paddock fences
or in areas where horses are kept.
Do not put fallen leaves or clippings of prunus
in areas where horses could access them.
Sorghums
All sorghums contain cyanogenic glycosides
but there is much variation between species and
varieties. Sorghums that have been associated
with poisoning in horses either in Australia or
overseas include the forage or weed sorghums
(Johnson grass, Sudan grass, Columbus grass)
and grain sorghum. There is some confusion
over sorghum names and for the purposes of this
book we will refer to sorghums by their common
names and note the species name by which they
are usually known. A taxonomic review of
sorghums in 2003 showed that there are many
hybrids and types of sorghum that are difcult
to classify. There may be further changes to the
naming of these plants in the future.
Horses may be at risk of chronic cyanide
poisoning if they are grazed on sorghum-
dominant pastures or if they are fed hay
containing sorghum species. Sorghum grain has
very low levels of cyanide and is considered safe.
Identication note: distinguishing between
different grasses can be extremely difcult and
only a very basic description is given here. See
Johnson grass
Usually known as Sorghum halepense [Poaceae]
Johnson grass is native to the Mediterranean
region, Europe, Asia and Africa. It is a major
weed in pastures and crops and it is declared
noxious weed in New South Wales, the Northern
Territory and Western Australia.
Johnson grass is a long-lived perennial grass
that competes vigorously with crop and pasture
species. It reproduces by seed and by creeping
underground stems. The seeds can spread by
wind, water run-off, as contaminants of hay and
grain or through animal and vehicle movements.
The grass can grow to 1.5 m. It has stout upright
stems with alternately arranged leaves that are
glossy in appearance. The leaves have a prominent
midrib that is almost white and the edges of the
leaves are rough. The owering stems have joints
that may have tufts of downy hairs.
The owering seed heads can be pale green, red
or purple in colour and they appear at the top of
a owering stem. The seeds are borne on many
slender branches that divide into ner branches.
The seed heads can be up to 30 cm long and
30 cm wide.
Orchard trees, garden
ornamentals, summer
shade trees.
Most suited to temperate
climates. Varieties of
fruiting Prunus have been
developed for subtropical
and tropical climates.
Prunus spp can be found
growing in most parts of
Australia.
roadsides and waterways.
Sorghums are usually
a low-moderate risk to
horses. Young sorghum-
dominant pastures affected
by frost or storms, and
sorghum hay that has not
been cured can pose a very
high risk to horses.
32
Glycosides
Cyanogenic
Sudan grass
Known a Sorghum sudanense or Sorghum drummondii [Poaceae]
Sudan grass is very similar to Johnson grass. The
main differences are that Sudan grass does not
produce underground shoots (rhizomes), it is an
annual and the seed head is longer.
Columbus grass
May be a hybrid of Sorghum halepense x almum [Poaceae]
Columbus grass is very similar to Johnson grass.
The main difference is that the sections between
the nodes of the underground stems (rhizomes)
are thicker and shorter in Columbus grass.
Declared a noxious weed in New South Wales
and Western Australia.
Grain sorghum is similar to Johnson grass but it
does not have underground stems. The ower
head of grain sorghum is denser than that of
Johnson grass. It can be an annual or a short-
lived perennial.
Management notes
Young sorghum pastures are not safe for grazing, especially if damaged by frosts, drought or
storms. Pasture over 50 cm high is usually considered safe for grazing.
If feeding sorghum hay to horses, ensure that it is properly cured. Fresh or green sorghum hay
has the potential to contain high levels of cyanogenic glycosides.
Select low-risk cultivars if planting sorghums as pasture grasses.
Other plants that can accumulate cyanogenic glycosides:

Spotted fuchsia
(native fuchsia, spotted emu bush)
Eremophila maculata [Myoporaceae]
Johnson grass has underground stems (rhizomes)
that are white or reddish-purple in colour and
are covered in brown scaly sheaths. These stems
have nodes from which new growth can occur.
Grain sorghum
Sorghum bicolor [Poaceae]
Densely branched perennial shrub growing to
2 m. Alternately arranged, narrow leaves that
can be up 5 cm long by 1 cm wide. The leaves
are dark green and glossy. Flowers in winter and
spring. The tubular owers appear in the forks
of the leaves on S-shaped stalks. Flowers can be
shades of yellow or red. The inside surface of
the owers is spotted.
Pasture grass.
Pasture grass.
Grain sorghum is mainly
cultivated in the eastern states.
Its hybrids can be found
growing as weeds in all states.
The following plants may, under certain conditions, contain high levels of cyanogenic glycosides.
The seedheads of Johnson grass, Sudan grass
and Columbus grass are very similar.
Grain sorghum
33
Glycosides
Cyanogenic
Birdsfoot trefoil
Lotus corniculatus [Fabaceae]
Annual or perennial plant growing to 40 cm. The
stems lie along the ground and grow upwards at
the tips (decumbent). The alternately arranged
leaves have 5 egg-shaped leaets that are each
up to 1.5 cm long. The 2 lower leaets are
sometimes very small. The pea-shaped owers
appear in a group of 2 8 and the ower stalks
of each group arise from a single point on the
stem. The spring - summer owers are usually
yellow with red veins. Produces brown pods.
Wattles
Acacia spp [Fabaceae]
Acacia is the largest genus of owering plants in
Australia with 960 species. Acacias can be trees
or shrubs. Young leaves are bi-pinnate, which
means that the main leaf stem has opposite pairs
of stems and these smaller stems have opposite
pairs of leaets. Older leaves might retain this
form, be cylindrical or be a attened, leaf-like
stem. Acacia owers are small and round, oval or
cylindrical. The owers are usually yellow. Pods
are usually leathery or woody.
Couch grasses
Cynodon spp [Poaceae]
Particularly African star grass (Coondai couch) Cynodon nlemfuensis and Cynodon plectostachyus
Cynodons are perennials. They produce
underground (rhizomes) and aboveground
(stolons), root-like stems that can take root and
produce new growth. The leaves are sheathed.
The inner junction of the leaf sheath and leaf
blade is thin and translucent. The owers have
2 6 narrow spikes spreading from the top of
the owering stem and all of the spikes arise
from the same point. The small spikelets appear
in 2 rows on the underside of the ower stems.
Native couch
(spider grass)
Brachyachne convergens (also known as Cynodon convergens) [Poaceae]
Upright or semi-upright annual that grows to
50 cm. The branched stems are bent (like a knee
or elbow joint) at the base. The leaves have a
loose overlapping sheath. The ower has 3 5
narrow spikes spreading from the top of the
owering stem. All of the spikes arise from the
same point and they can be 3 5 cm long.
Pasture legume.
Occurs naturally in most
environments in Australia.
Grown as garden plants,
street trees and park trees.
Pasture grasses. African star
grass is found in the areas
shown in dark green on the
above map. Other couch
grasses are widely distributed
throughout Australia.
Native pasture grass.
African star grass
34
Glycosides
Cyanogenic
Linseed (ax)
Linum usitatissimum [Linaceae]
Linseed meal was once a common protein
supplement for horses but it is not as commonly
used today. Heat pressed linseed meal does not
contain cyanogenic glycosides and is not a risk
to horses. Cold pressed linseed meal that has
not been treated with heat contains cyanogenic
glycosides and poses some risk to horses. Whole
linseed seed is sometimes fed to horses as a coat
conditioner and laxative. Whole linseed seed
is safe to feed dry and untreated if using small
amounts in the ration (less than half a cup, or
75 g). Larger amounts of whole linseed seed
should be heat treated to remove cyanogenic
glycosides before being fed to horses. Method:
add the seeds to boiling water and continue boiling
for at least 5 minutes. Do not soak linseed seeds
in cold water as this will increase the amount of
cyanide in the seeds, making them more toxic.
Management factors
Some of the plants on the above list are important pasture species and are safe under most
circumstances. An observance of the risk factors listed at the start of this chapter will reduce the
risk of poisoning by pasture species that can accumulate cyanogenic glycosides.
The ornamental plant species on the above list are usually unpalatable but horses may eat them if
other forage is scarce. In some circumstances these ornamentals may accumulate large amounts
of cyanogenic glycosides and the ingestion of only small amounts may be enough to cause
poisoning. These plants should be considered unsuitable for planting in paddocks, along paddock
fences or in areas where horses are kept.

35
Glycosides
Cardiac
Cardiac glycosides
Cardiac glycosides are found in several
plant families. Cardiac glycosides
are extremely toxic but poisoning is
relatively uncommon in horses because
the plants are generally unpalatable.
Cardiac glycosides disrupt normal heart
function by inhibiting an important
enzyme called Na
+
/K
+
ATPase. The
enzyme regulates the levels of sodium
ions (Na
+
) and Potassium ions (K
+
)
in the cells of the body. Inhibition
of the enzyme controlling sodium
and potassium levels in cells leads to
a build-up of potassium outside cells
and a build-up of sodium inside cells.
This triggers a release of calcium into
the cells. High levels of calcium in the
cells of the heart can cause problems
with normal function and can lead to
heart failure. The action of cyanogenic
glycosides also has effects on the
gastrointestinal system and the nervous
system. The properties of some
cardiac glycosides have made them
useful in human medicine.
Note: Care should be taken if the plants
in this group are removed from paddocks or
otherwise handled. They are very toxic to
humans if ingested and the sap of these plants
causes skin irritation. The ingestion of one
leaf or ower from the oleander tree can be
enough to cause death in a human.
Signs of cardiac glycoside poisoning
The ingestion of plant material
containing cardiac glycosides can
rapidly cause death in horses. In
many reported cases of acute cardiac
glycoside poisoning the horse has been
found dead in the paddock. Signs of
poisoning appear soon after ingestion
of toxic plant material and the
symptoms progress rapidly.
Colic
Lethargy and weakness
Diarrhoea
Abnormal heart beat and weak
pulse
Cold extremities
Sweating
Shortness of breath
Death from heart failure usually
occurs from 12 - 48 hours after
ingestion of the toxic plant
There is no specic treatment available
for cardiac glycoside poisoning.
Supportive care and treatments such

as activated charcoal administered
directly to the stomach, uids and
heart medications have been useful in
a small number of cases. Immediate
veterinary attention is critical for there
to be any chance of survival.
Horses that survive cardiac glycoside
poisoning may be left with permanent
damage to the heart.
Oleander
Nerium oleander [Apocynaceae]
Oleander is native to the Mediterranean region
and it is widely grown in Australia as a garden
ornamental and street tree.
The plant is extremely toxic to all species, including
humans. A study on the toxicity of oleander
showed that the ingestion of only 7 leaves could be
fatally toxic to an average sized horse. All parts of
oleander trees are toxic and this toxicity is retained
in dried leaves, owers and branches. Oleander
contains several cardiac glycosides but the most
toxic of these is called oleandrin.
Horses will not usually eat oleander leaves
because they have a bitter taste. Cases of
oleander poisoning in horses have been reported
in Australia and overseas. Some cases involved
the ingestion of fresh oleander leaves from the
tree but most documented cases of poisoning
have involved the ingestion of plant clippings
or fallen and dried leaves. Dried leaves have not
lost their toxicity but they are more palatable than
fresh leaves.
There are many cultivars of oleander grown in
Australia and there is much variation between
them.
Oleander is an evergreen shrub or tree that
can grow from 2 5m tall. Some newer dwarf
varieties grow to 1.5 m tall.
The plant is upright and has many stems that may
start to branch near ground level. The stem and
branches exude a thick white sap if damaged.
The leaves are narrow and are elliptical or lance-
shaped. They are positioned on opposite sides
of the stem or in whorls of 3 to 4. The leaves
can be from 6 20 cm long and up to 3 cm wide.
The tips of the leaves are pointed and the edges
are smooth. The leaves have a leathery feel and
have a prominent midrib, with side veins that
are parallel. The leaves are usually green but can
sometimes have a variegated pattern of white or
yellow. The lower surface of the leaves is usually
paler than the upper surface.
Drought resistant and
adaptable plant that can
be found in most parts of
Australia.
Grown as garden
ornamentals, street trees,
park trees and hedges.
36
Glycosides
Cardiac
The plant owers mainly in summer but many
cultivars can also ower in spring and autumn.
The owers are usually 3 - 4 cm in diameter. The
owers can have a single or double layer of petals
and are most commonly pink but can be white,
red, or yellow.
The plant produces a pair of narrow brown pods
that can be up to 20 cm long. The pods droop
downwards and they contain many silky seeds.
Management notes
Oleander is not suitable for planting in

Do not put fallen leaves or clippings of oleander in areas where horses could access them.
Yellow oleander
(Captain Cook tree, Cook tree, lucky nut, Mexican oleander, dicky plant)
Cascabela thevetia (also known as Thevetia nereifolia or Thevetia peruviana) [Apocynaceae]
Yellow oleander is native to South America. The
plant contains several cardiac glycosides with the
major ones being thevetin A and B and peruvoside.
Yellow oleander is widely grown as a garden
ornamental. However, the plant has spread
beyond gardens and naturalised populations that
are considered weeds occur mostly on the east
coast, especially in Queensland and northern
New South Wales. Some populations of
naturalised yellow oleander are recorded in the
Northern Territory and Western Australia. It is a
declared noxious weed in Queensland.
Yellow oleander is an evergreen shrub or tree that
can grow from 2.5 3 m tall. Occasionally the
plant can grow as high as 10 m.
The plant is upright and has many stems that may
start to branch near ground level. The stem and
branches exude a thick white sap if damaged.
The leaves are lance-shaped and are arranged along
the stems in a spiral pattern, often in dense clusters.
The leaves can be from 5 15 cm long and up to
1.5 cm wide. The tips of the leaves are pointed and
the edges are smooth and may curve downwards.
The leaves have a prominent midrib. The leaves are
glossy and green on the upper surface and dull and
paler green on the lower surface.
The plant owers mostly in summer and autumn
but can ower at any time of the year. The
owers are tubular in shape and are 5 7 cm
long. The owers are usually bright yellow
or occasionally orange. The plant produces a
slightly eshy fruit that is up to 5.5 cm across.
The fruit is roughly triangular and it droops from
the branch. The fruit is glossy green turning to
black with maturity.
Management notes
Yellow oleander is not suitable for planting in paddocks, along paddock fences or in areas where
horses are kept.
Do not put fallen leaves or clippings of yellow oleander in areas where horses can access them.
Individual plants found as weeds in paddocks should be removed. Small seedling can be removed
by hand. Wear thick gloves and take extreme caution to avoid the sap of this plant.
Larger plants may need to be cut at the base and the stump painted with herbicides. Seek advice
from a local agronomist or weed management agency to select the most appropriate herbicide.
Drought resistant and

adaptable plant that can
be found in most parts of
Australia.
Grown as garden
ornamentals, street trees
and park trees. It grows as a
weed in some areas.
Photos: Sheldon Navie
37
Glycosides
Cardiac
The plant produces seeds that are spread by wind,
water run-off or through animal and vehicle
movements.
The stems of the plant are grey-brown and are
covered in raised spots. The stems exude a thick
white sap if damaged. Young stems are green and
are of two types: leafy and branched or leaess and
unbranched whips. The whip stems can grow
up to 8 m and may nd support for climbing.
The leaves are thick and leathery and are arranged
on opposite sides of the stem. The leaves are
glossy dark green on the upper surface and they
are pale and dull on the lower surface. The leaves
are oblong in shape and can be up to 10 cm long
by 6 cm wide. The leaves have smooth or slightly
wavy edges and they have green or red-purple
stalks that can be up to 1.5 cm in length.
Rubber vine owers mainly in summer. The
owers are white or shades of purple or pink. The
usual colour is pale pink with a darker centre. The
owers are tube-shaped and are 4 6 cm long and
5 9 cm wide. The plant produces fruit that can
be green or brown in colour. The fruit is produced
in pairs and resemble pods. The seeds inside the
fruit are brown and at and are topped with a tuft
of white hairs that are up to 4 cm long.
Rubber vine
(Indian rubber vine)
Cryptostegia grandiora [Asclepiadaceae]
Rubber vine is native to Madagascar. The plant
is a notorious invader and it thrives in Australian
conditions, particularly in northern Australia.
The plant creates dense thickets and chokes out
native species. It is considered one of Australias
worst weeds and it is on the list of the Weeds
of National Signicance. It is declared noxious in
Queensland, Western Australia, the Northern
Territory and South Australia.
Rubber vine contains cardiac glycosides and is
very toxic. Reports of poisonings are uncommon
but rubber vine was implicated as the cause of
poisoning in several horses in Australia in 1990.
Rubber vine is a woody shrub or climber. It can
grow to 1 3 m high without support but it can
reach up to 30 m high when growing on vegetation.
Purple rubber vine
(rubber vine, Madagascar rubber vine)
Cryptostegia madagascariensis [Asclepiadaceae]
Purple rubber vine is native to Madagascar. It is
a declared noxious weed in Western Australia, the
Northern Territory and Queensland.
Purple rubber vine is very similar to rubber vine.
The owers of purple rubber vine are slightly
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses in areas where rubber vine grows.
Control of these plants, especially large infestations of rubber vine, requires an integrated weed
management approach.
Isolated small plants can be pulled out by hand. Wear thick gloves and take extreme caution to
avoid the sap of these plants.
The strategic use of herbicides is effective in controlling individual plants or small infestations.
If the stems are greater than 90 mm across, cut the plants at the ground and apply herbicide to
the stumps. Seek advice from a local agronomist or weed management agency to select the most
Fire is often used as a control method for large infestations of rubber vine. Follow-up burns and
removal of seedlings will be required. Seek advice from the local council regarding regulations
and also seek advice from a local agronomist or weed management agency regarding the best
method and timing for this technique.
smaller and are a deeper pink colour than those

of rubber vine.
Identication note: There are several cultivated
plants available in nurseries that go by the name
rubber vine. These are unrelated plants and
should not be confused with Cryptostegia grandiora
or Cryptostegia madagascariensis.
Weed of waterways, open
woodlands, grasslands,
pastures, forests and
roadsides.
Weed of waterways, open
pastures, forests and
roadsides.
Grown as an ornamental
garden plant in some areas
of Australia.
38
Glycosides
Cardiac
Mother of millions
Bryophyllum spp [Crassulaceae]
The leaves are arranged on opposite sides of the
stem and can be single or compound, with up
to 5 leaets. The leaves vary between species in
shape and colour.
The owers grow in drooping clusters at the top
of the upright stems. The owers are contained
within a tube that can be coloured and mottled
and can be up to 4 cm long. The petals extend
from the tube and are fused for more than half
their length. There are 4 petal lobes near the tip
of the ower. The owers can be red, orange-
red, pink or greenish-yellow. Flowering occurs in
winter to early spring.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with mother of millions. This is especially important
when the plant is owering and when other fodder is scarce, for example during drought
conditions.
Check hay for mother of millions contamination.
Mother of millions should not be grown as an ornamental plant in areas where horses are kept.
Do not put clippings of the plant in areas where horses could access them.
Individual plants can be removed from the paddock by hand. Ensure all plant material is removed
and dispose of plants by burning or place them in bags. Wear thick gloves and take care to avoid
the sap of these plants.
Most species of Bryophyllum are known as mother

of millions.
Mother of millions and hybrid mother of
millions are native to Africa and Madagascar.
The plants are drought tolerant and can quickly
dominate pastures that have been affected by dry
conditions. Several species of Bryophyllum have
been declared noxious weeds in Queensland,
New South Wales and Western Australia.
All species of Bryophyllum contain highly toxic
cardiac glycosides. There are no conrmed
reports of horse poisonings by this plant in
Australia. The plants are usually unpalatable
but they can heavily invade pastures and they
should be considered a risk to horses. It has been
reported that the owers are the most palatable
part of the plant and they may be eaten when
other fodder is scarce. Mother of millions can
sometimes be found as a contaminant of hay.
All parts of mother of millions plants are toxic
but the owers contain the highest levels of
toxins.
Mother of millions and its hybrid species are very
similar in their growth habit and appearance.
The plants are erect perennial succulents that can
grow up to 1.8 m but are usually around 1 m in
height. Mother of millions produce numerous
seeds that can be dispersed by water run-off, as
contaminants of hay and grain or through animal
and vehicle movements. The plant also produces
numerous tiny plantlets at the edges or tips of
the leaves. Each of these plantlets can grow if
dislodged from the leaves or dumped as garden
waste. This feature of the plant gives it the
common name mother of millions
A pasture infested with mother of millions.
Mother of millions seedling showing plantlets.
Weed of pastures,
grasslands, open woodlands,
roadsides and forests.
Mother of millions hybrids
are commonly grown as
garden ornamentals.
39
Glycosides
Cardiac
Cape tulips are native to Africa. There are two
species of cape tulip and both are declared
noxious weeds in all states except Queensland,
the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital
Territory.
Cape tulips contain highly toxic cardiac glycosides
but there are no conrmed reports of horse
One leaf cape tulip
Moraea accida [Iridaceae]
One leaf cape tulip is an upright plant that
usually grows to 60 cm tall but can occasionally
grow to 75 cm. The plant produces perennial
underground bulbs (called corms). The
leaves and stems die back annually. The plant
spreads mostly by seed. It can also spread in
its immediate area by the production of the
underground corms. These corms can be spread
to other areas by cultivation or other practices
that move soil.
The rounded stems may appear to grow in a
zigzag manner and the stems may branch near
the top of the plant. Each plant has 1 leaf that
sheaths the lower part of the plant.
This leaf is folded when young and
matures to be strap-like and slightly
ribbed.
The plant owers in late winter to early
spring. The owers are usually pink
or orange with a yellow centre. The
owers appear at the end of the branches and each
ower has 6 elongated petals that can be up to 4
cm long. The plant produces a green fruit capsule
that turns brown as it matures. The fruit capsule is
elongated and is around 5.5 cm long, with a short
beak at its tip. Each fruit capsule contains up to
150 small seeds.
Two leaf cape tulip
Moraea miniata (previously known as Homeria accida and Homeria miniata) [Iridaceae]
poisonings caused by the plant in Australia.
There are reports of cape tulip poisoning in other
livestock species in Australia. The plants are
usually unpalatable but they can invade pastures
and they should be considered a risk to horses.
Cape tulips are a common contaminant of hay
that has been cut in areas where the weed grows.
Cape tulips
Two leaf cape tulip is an upright plant that
usually grows to 60 cm tall. The plant produces
numerous perennial underground bulbs (called
corms). The leaves and stems die back annually.
The plant spreads through the distribution
of a large number of bulb-like structures that
form in the forks of the leaves after owering
has nished (called cormils). Mature cormils
have a hard black covering and can be spread by
machinery, contaminated crops and feedstuffs
or by cultivation and other practices that move
soil. It has been estimated that up to 20,000
cormils can accumulate per square metre of
land in heavily infested areas. The plant also
spreads in its immediate area by the production
of underground corms and these corms can
be spread to other areas by cultivation or other
practices that move soil.
The rounded stems may appear to grow in a
zigzag manner and the stems may branch near
the top of the plant. Each plant has 2, or less
commonly 3, large alternately arranged leaves.
The leaves are folded when young and mature to
be strap-like and slightly ribbed.
The plant owers in late winter to early spring.
The owers are usually pink or orange with a
yellow centre. Flowers appear at the end of the
branches and each ower has 6 broad petals that
can be up to 2.5
cm long. The
plant produces
a small green
fruit capsule that
turns brown as it
matures. The fruit
capsule does not
produce seeds.
woodlands, roadsides and
crops.
crops.
40
Glycosides
Cardiac
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with cape tulips.
Check hay for cape tulip contamination.
Reducing the chance of introducing cape tulips to a property is important because, once established,
the weeds are very hard to control.
Check hay that is to be fed on the ground for cape tulip contamination.
Seed can be carried onto a property in mud on vehicles. Clean vehicles after visiting cape tulip
infested areas.
Control of established infestations is a difcult and ongoing process because of the high dormancy
rate of underground corms of both species and the cormils of two leaf cape tulip.
Individual plants found growing as weeds can be removed by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide.
Dig around the base of the plants to ensure that all of the underground corms are removed.
The use of herbicides is the main control technique for managing cape tulip infestations. The
timing and type of herbicide used are critical to the success of a control program. Seek advice
from a local agronomist or weed management agency on the best method and timing for
herbicide control of cape tulip.
Cotton bushes
Gomphocarpus spp and Asclepias spp [Apocynaceae]
Cotton bushes are those plants in the genera
Gomphocarpus and Asclepias. Cotton bushes are
also known as milkweeds and some are known as
swan plants. They were introduced to Australia
as garden plants. Some are still grown in
gardens today and some have become important
agricultural weeds. Narrow leaf cotton bush
(Gomphocarpus fruticosus) is a declared noxious
weed in Western Australia.
Above and right: balloon cotton bush (Gomphocarpus
physocarpus, also known as Asclepias physocarpus).
The owers of red headed cotton bush (Asclepias curassavica).
Cotton bushes contain highly toxic cardiac
glycosides but there are no conrmed reports
of horse poisoning cases caused by the plants in
Australia. The plants are usually unpalatable to
horses but they may be ingested if other forage
is scarce. Cotton bushes are sometimes found
as contaminants of hay. There are reports from
other countries of horse deaths caused by the
ingestion of cotton bushes.
Cotton bushes are perennial upright plants that
are usually 1 2 m tall. The stems are usually
thin, stiff and woody.
The leaves are usually lance-shaped and they are
arranged on opposite sides of the stem. All parts
of the plant release a milky sap when damaged.
Weeds of waterways,
roadsides, pastures and open
woodlands.
Grown as garden
ornamentals in some areas.
41
Glycosides
Cardiac
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with cotton bushes.
Cotton bush species should not be grown as ornamental plants in areas where horses are kept.
Do not put clippings from ornamental cotton bush species in areas where horses could access
them.
Check hay for cotton bush contamination.
Individual plants can be easily removed from the paddock by hand as they have shallow root
systems. Ensure all root material is removed from the ground. Wear thick gloves and take care to
avoid the sap of this plant.
The use of herbicides can be an effective control measure for larger infestations. The plant
should be sprayed while actively growing. Seek advice from a local agronomist or weed
property.
Foxglove
Digitalis purpurea [Scrophulariaceae]
Foxglove is native to Europe and is widely grown
in Australian gardens. In some areas of Australia
the plant grows as a weed in pastures and it
has the potential to contaminate hay and other
feedstuffs.
Foxglove contains several highly toxic cardiac
glycosides and it has been reported to cause
poisoning in horses in some countries, although
there has been no conrmed horse poisoning
cases in Australia.
Foxglove is an erect perennial or biennial plant
that grows to around 1.5 m. The plant produces
a large number of seeds that can be spread by
wind or water run-off.
The stem and leaves of the plant are covered in
dense hairs. The leaves are egg-shaped and form
a rosette. A showy ower spike grows from the
centre of the rosette in spring to early summer.
The owers are produced at the top of the spike
and owers hang from all sides. The owers are
tubular and bell shaped and can be white, purple
or pink with mottled patterns.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with foxgloves.
Foxgloves should not be grown as an ornamental plant in areas where horses are kept.
Do not put clippings from foxgloves in areas where horses could access them.
Individual plants found growing as weeds can be removed by hand. Wear thick gloves and take
care to avoid the sap of this plant.
The use of herbicides can be an effective control measure for larger infestations. The
plant should be sprayed while actively growing. Seek advice from local agronomist or weed
property.
The owers are white in most species and they

are produced in clusters of 3 10. Red headed
cotton bush has red and orange owers. The ower
clusters droop on a stalk from the forks of the
leaves. Flowering can occur from spring to autumn.
The plants produce distinctive balloon-like green
fruit that has thin walls. The fruits are covered
in soft bristles and they are usually rounded or
slightly oval. The fruits of some species may
taper to a short curved projection at one end.
The seeds inside the fruit are brown or black and
are topped with numerous white silky hairs.
Weed of pastures, grasslands
and roadsides in eastern
New South Wales, eastern
Victoria and Tasmania.
Foxgloves are grown
throughout Australia as
garden ornamentals.
The hairy seeds of narrow leaf cotton bush
(Gomphocarpus fruticosus)
42
Glycosides
Cardiac
Ornithogalums
Ornithogalum spp [Hyacinthaceae]
Some species of Ornithogalum are considered
weeds in some areas of Australia where
they invade crops and pastures, for example
Ornithogalum umbellatum (star of Bethlehem),
Ornithogalum longibracteatum (pregnant onion)
and Ornithogalum thyrsoides (Chinkerichee).
Ornithogalums are cultivated as garden plants
throughout most of Australia. The plants
are usually unpalatable to horses but they can
sometimes be found as contaminants of hay.
Ornithogalums are erect annual plants. The
plants grow from bulbs, around which smaller
bulbs are produced. These bulbs can be spread
though machinery movements or cultivation and
other practices that move soil. The plant can also
reproduce by seed.
The leaves are usually dark green and shiny and
some species have leaves with a distinctive white
midrib. The leaves are strap-like.
The owers grow on a long stem that is hollow.
There can be many owers on the branches of
each stem. Each white ower has 6 petals (not
all are true petals) and there is usually a green
midvein on the outer surface of the petals.
Flowering occurs mostly in spring but can occur
at other times of the year.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with ornithogalums.
Ornithogalums should not be grown as ornamental plants in areas where horses are kept.
Do not put clippings from ornithogalums in areas where horses could access them.
Individual plants found growing as weeds can be removed by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide.
Dig around the base of the plants to ensure that all of the bulbs are removed. Wear thick gloves
and take care to avoid the sap of this plant.
The use of herbicides can be an effective control measure for larger infestations. The plant should
be sprayed while actively growing. Seek advice from local agronomist or weed management agency
to select the most appropriate herbicide and spray program for your property.
Blue periwinkle
(greater periwinkle)
Vinca major [Apocynaceae]
Blue periwinkle is native to Europe and North
Africa. It grows as a weed in many parts
of Australia, particularly adjacent to urban
developments. Blue periwinkle grows vigorously
to form a mat that can choke out pastures.
The plant is usually unpalatable to horses but it is
commonly found in horse paddocks, especially in
semi-rural areas. It can occasionally be found as a
contaminant of hay.
Blue periwinkle is a spreading perennial that
grows to a height of 50 cm.
The plant produces seeds but under Australian
environmental conditions the seeds produced
are not usually viable. The plant can grow from
Weeds of crops and
pastures in southern New
South Wales, southeastern
South Australia, Victoria
and southwestern Western
Australia.
Grown throughout Australia
as garden ornamentals.
Weed of pastures,
particularly pastures that are
adjacent to urban areas.
Grown as a garden
ornamental.
Ornithogalum umbellatum
(star of Bethlehem)
Photos: Ken Harris
nodes that occur along the stem and roots.
Dispersal of plant material is usually via stem
fragments that are discarded as garden waste.
Photo: Ken Harris
43
Glycosides
Cardiac
Stem fragments can also be spread by water run-
off or through cultivation and other practices
that move soil.
The plant has broad oval leaves that are glossy
dark green and are arranged on opposite sides of
the stem. The leaves can be up to 5 cm in length.
The owers are mauve or purple and the petals
have a distinctive twist. The owers are usually
3 6 cm wide and are tubular, with 5 spreading
petals that can be up to 2.5 cm long. Cylindrical
paired fruit after owering has nished.
Flowering occurs in spring and summer.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with blue periwinkle.
Blue periwinkle should not be grown as an ornamental plant in areas where horses are kept.
Do not put clippings from blue periwinkle in areas where horses could access them.
Individual plants found growing as weeds can be removed by hand. All parts of the plant must
be removed to ensure the weed does not regrow from stem or root fragments. Wear thick gloves
and take care to avoid the sap of this plant.
The use of herbicides can be an effective control measure for larger infestations. The plant
should be sprayed while actively growing. Seek advice from a local agronomist or weed
property.
Pheasants eye
(small fruited pheasants eye, red chamomile, adonis, autumn pheasants eye)
Adonis microcarpa [Ranunculaceae]
Pheasants eye is native to central Europe and
the Mediterranean region. It is a major weed of
crops and pastures in Australia. Pheasants eye is
a declared noxious weed in South Australia and
Western Australia.
The plant is unpalatable and cases of poisoning
caused by pheasants eye or its close relatives are
rare. All reported cases of poisoning in horses
by plants in the Adonis genus have involved the
ingestion of contaminated hay.
Pheasants eye is an upright annual that usually
grows 20 40 cm but can occasionally grow to
60 cm in height. The plant produces seeds in
a small fruit that can attach to clothing and
animals. The seeds can also be spread through
contaminated hay or grains.
The slender stems have many branches and they
are covered in soft hairs near the base of the
plant. The leaves are alternately arranged along
the stem and they usually have stalks up to 7 cm
in length but some leaves do not have stalks.
The leaves are up to 6 cm long. They are deeply
divided and look somewhat like carrot leaves.
The plant owers in late winter to early summer.
The owers are bright red or occasionally yellow
and they appear at the tips of the stems. The ower
has 5 10 petals and the centre of the ower
appears black. The plant produces a small fruit that
can be up to 4 mm across. The fruit is wrinkled and
has a beak at the top that is around 1 mm long.
Management notes
Check hay for pheasants eye contamination.
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with pheasants eye.
Individual plants found growing as weeds can be removed by hand.
Establish competitive pastures.
Weed of pastures, crops

and roadsides.
44
Glycosides
Protoanemonin
Protoanemonin
Protoanemonin is a toxin formed from
glycosides that are found in several
plant genera including Ranunculus,
Helleborus, Clematis and Caltha. These
plants are usually unpalatable to horses.
Most of the plants in these genera
that grow in Australia are cultivated as
garden species and they pose very little
risk to horses. Celery-leaf buttercup
is of some risk to horses because it
is considered to be the most toxic of
the buttercups and it grows as a weed
in pastures. Reports of celery-leaf
buttercup poisoning are uncommon.
The primary effect of protoanemonins
is irritation of the digestive tract.
Protoanemonins are only poisonous
in fresh plants because the toxins
have converted to the non-toxic
form, anemonin, in dried plants. The
level of toxins is highest in owering
plants and the irritant effects of toxic
protoanemonins start soon after
ingestion of fresh plant material.
Signs of protoanemonin poisoning
Blistering and swelling of the skin
in and around the mouth
Diarrhoea
Colic
In mild cases of protoanemonin

poisoning the affected horse will usually
recover within a few days.
In more severe cases veterinary
attention should be sought and
treatment will aid recovery.
Celery-leaf buttercup
(poison buttercup, cursed crowsfoot)
Ranunculus sceleratus [Ranunculaceae]
Celery-leaf buttercup is native to Europe. The
plant is a declared noxious weed in South
Australia and Western Australia.
Celery-leaf buttercup is an upright annual that
usually grows to 60 cm in height. The branched
stems of the plant are thick and hollow.
The plant forms a rosette of leaves and each leaf
can be up to 6 cm long by 8 cm wide. The leaves
have stalks that can be up to 15 cm long. The
leaves are kidney-shaped or egg-shaped and they
have 3 or 5 lobes that have toothed edges. The
leaves on the stem do not have stalks and they are
alternately arranged along the stem. The stem
leaves are smaller than the rosette leaves.
Flowering occurs in spring. The centre of the
ower contains numerous fruitlets that develop
as the ower matures. The ower has 5 yellow
petals and 5 hairy bracts that are bent downwards.
Management notes
with celery-leaf buttercup.
Individual plants can be pulled out by hand
or spot sprayed with herbicide.
The use of herbicides can be an effective
control measure for larger infestations. Seek
advice from a local agronomist or weed
management agency to select the most
appropriate herbicide and spray program for
your property.
A weed that grows mainly

in damp areas, such as the
edges of dams, drainage
channels and moist areas of
pastures.
45
Glycosides
Steroidal saponins
Steroidal saponins
A number of plants that contain
steroidal saponins grow in Australia
and some of these plants have been
reported to cause poisoning in some
livestock species, most commonly in
sheep.
Steroidal saponins in grasses of the
Panicum species may be toxic to horses,
although reports of poisoning cases
are rare. A small number of cases have
been reported in the United States but
there have been no conrmed cases in
Australia.
The ingestion of large amounts of
steroidal saponins can disrupt normal
liver function and in horses this may
lead to liver disease with secondary
photosensitisation.
There may be other interacting
factors involved in the development
of poisoning after ingestion of
steroidal saponin-containing plants.
Some researchers suggest that these
factors may be environmental, or that
mycotoxins may contribute to the
condition.
Signs of steroidal saponin poisoning
would usually only occur after a horse
has been grazing panic grasses for
several weeks or longer.
Signs of steroidal saponin poisoning
The signs of steroidal saponin
poisoning in horses are not well
described in the literature and this
probably reects the infrequency of
its occurrence. The toxins reportedly
cause liver disease with secondary
photosensitisation in horses. The
signs that may be seen include:
Weight loss
Feed refusal
Photosensitisation - redness
and swelling of the skin in
unpigmented areas. The nose,
crack and weep uid
Lameness associated with
photosensitisation of the skin
near the coronary band has been
reported to occur in some cases
Panicum spp
[Poaceae]
There are as many as 500 species of Panicum
found worldwide and 33 are known to occur
in Australia. Five species of Panicum have been
associated with steroidal saponin poisoning in
livestock and these are giant panic grass (Panicum
Common pasture species
in all states of Australia.
Incoordination may develop in
severe cases and death could
occur in rare cases where liver
damage is severe
Affected animals should be removed
from the pasture that contains panic
grasses and veterinary advice should
be sought. The horse should be kept
in an area that is out of direct sunlight
to allow the skin to heal.
antidotale), coolah grass (Panicum coloratum), guinea

grass (Panicum maximum), millet panic (Panicum
miliaceum) and red switch grass (Panicum virgatum).
different panic grasses can be extremely difcult
and only a very basic description of the genus
is given here. See page 5 for more information
on obtaining a precise identication of a plant
species.
Panicum species are grasses that can be annual or
perennial.
The long narrow leaf blades often have hairs at the
junction between the leaf sheaf and blade and the
leaf blades are rolled when immature.
Panics usually have an open, branched seed head
but some species have a compact seed head.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses for
long periods on panic
grasses. Rotate between
pastures containing panic
grasses and those not
containing panic grasses
every few weeks if possible.
Observe horses grazing on
panic grasses for signs of
photosensitivity.

46
Glycosides
carboxyatractyloside
Carboxyatractyloside
Carboxyatractyloside is a diterpenoid
glycoside that can be found in plants
of the Xanthium genus. Two species of
the Cestrum genus contain toxins that
are very similar to carboxyatractyloside
in their structure and their potential
toxicity to animals. These toxins are
called carboxyparquin and parquin and
they are found in green cestrum and
night cestrum.
The toxins in xanthiums, green
cestrum and night cestrum are
absorbed from the digestive tract and
they disrupt normal cell metabolism,
causing cells to die. Cells of the liver
are particularly affected.
Cases of poisoning by xanthiums, green
cestrum and night cestrum in horses
are uncommon and no conrmed cases
have been reported in Australia.
The seeds and rst seedling leaves
of xanthiums are the only parts of
the plants that are toxic. The seeds
are encased in a hard burr and horses
Signs of carboxyatractyloside poisoning
will not eat the burr. The risk for
poisoning in horses is through seed
contamination of processed feeds or
processed supplements, contamination
of hay (although horses will usually
selectively leave the burrs) or through
the ingestion of xanthium seedlings.
Green cestrum and night cestrum are
usually unpalatable to horses, however
they may be eaten if other forage is
scarce. Green cestrum is a common
weed in many parts of Australia.
Poisoning of horses through the
ingestion of carboxyatractylosides
has not been well described in the
literature and this probably reects
the infrequency of its occurrence.
Ingestion of these toxins causes
severe liver damage in other species
and most likely has the same effect in
horses if the plants are eaten in large
enough quantities to cause poisoning.
The signs that may be seen in horses
include:
Depression
Increased respiratory rate
Incoordination
Rigidity of limbs
Neck and limb muscle contractions
Convulsions, coma and death may
occur in severe cases
There is no known treatment for

carboxyatractyloside poisoning in
horses. Veterinary care should be
sought if poisoning is suspected.
In mild cases, the horse may make
a full recovery with supportive
veterinary care. In cases of severe
liver disease there is very little chance
of survival.
Noogoora burr
(cockle burr, hedgehog burweed, sheeps burr, ditchbur, Italian cocklebur, hunter burr, Californian burr,
European cocklebur, large cocklebur, rough cocklebur)
Xanthium strumarium [Asteraceae]
The naming of some xanthium species is
rather complicated and several species have
been grouped under the name Noogoora burr
complex. The Noogoora burr complex goes
by the scientic name Xanthium strumarium and it
includes Xanthium cavanillesii, Xanthium italicaum,
Xanthium orientale and Xanthium occidentale. For the
purposes of this book we will refer to all of these
species as Noogoora burr.
Noogoora burr is most likely native to America
but it is found all over the world. It is a declared
noxious weed in all states except Queensland.
Noogoora burr is an upright or spreading annual
that usually grows to around 1 m in height, but
can occasionally grow to 2.5 m. The plant is
dispersed via seed that is contained in a burr.
The burrs are covered in hooked spines and
they can attach to clothing or animal coats.
Seeds can also be spread by water run-off or as
contaminants of hay and other feedstuffs.
The thick, hairy stems have many branches and
they are green with purple blotches or streaks.
The lower leaves are arranged opposite each other
Developing burr
47
Glycosides
on the stem and the upper leaves are alternately
arranged. The triangular or egg-shaped leaves can
be up to 20 cm long and
18 cm wide. The leaves have deeply toothed edges
and may be divided into 3 or 5 lobes. The leaves
grow on stalks that can be up to 20 cm long.
The plants produce two types of owers in late
summer and autumn. Male owers appear in
clusters at the tips of the branches and some
female owers appear below these clusters. Most
of the female owers grow where the leaf stalk
meets the stem of the plant. As owers nish
a green burr develops and it turns brown as it
matures. The burr can be up to 3 cm long and it
is covered in hooked spines with 2 larger spines
or beaks at the end.
Bathurst burr
(common cocklebur, spiny cocklebur, daggerweed, Spanish thistle, burrweed, prickly burrweed, thorny
burweed, spiny burweed, clotbur)
Xanthium spinosum [Asteraceae]
Bathurst burr is native to South America. It
is a declared noxious weed in all states except
Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory.
Bathurst burr is an upright annual growing to 60
cm in height but it can occasionally grow to 1.2 m.
The plant is dispersed via seed that is contained
in a burr. The burrs are covered in hooked
spines and can attach to clothing or animal coats.
Seeds can also be spread by water run-off or as
contaminants of hay and other feedstuffs.
The stems are greenish-yellow and are covered
in ne hairs. Three-pronged spines occur at
the base of the leaf stalks are these spines can
be up to 5 cm long. The leaves are arranged
alternately along the stems. The leaves have 3
or sometimes 5 lobes, with the centre lobe being
the largest. The leaves can be up to 10 cm long
and 3 cm wide and are dark green and shiny with
prominent white veins. The lower surface of the
leaves is paler than the top and is densely covered
in hairs.
The plants produce two types of owers in late
spring through to early autumn. Male owers
appear in dense clusters at the tips of the
branches. Female owers grow where the leaf
stalk meets the stem. As owers nish a green
burr develops and it turns brown as it matures.
The burr can be up to 1.5 cm long and it is
covered in hooked spines.
Mature burr
Growing plant. Photo: Sheldon Navie
Male owers at the tip of the branch and immature burrs
along stem.
48
Glycosides
Green cestrum
(green poisonberry, willow jasmine, willow leaved jessamine)
Cestrum parqui [Solanaceae]
Green cestrum is native to South America. The
leaves and ripe berries of the plant may also
contain tropane alkaloids, see page 21. The green
berries may contain solanine, see page 72. Green
cestrum is a weed that competes vigorously with
pasture species and it can become the dominant
species if not controlled. Green cestrum is a
declared noxious weed in New South Wales,
Victoria and Western Australia.
Green cestrum is an evergreen shrub that grows
to 3 m in height. The leaves are alternately
arranged along the stem and can grow to 14 cm
long by 4 cm wide. The leaves are shiny, green
and are lance-shaped. Green cestrum produces
seeds that can be spread by birds and water run-
off. The plant also produces underground root
suckers.
The plant owers throughout the year but most
owers appear in spring. The tubular owers are
yellow. The owers grow in clusters and each
ower is around 2.5 cm long.
The plant produces eshy berries that are small
and green when young. The berries are black or
purplish-black when ripe. The egg-shaped or
oval berries are around 1.5 cm across.
Weed of pastures, parklands,
gardens and roadsides.
Green cestrum growing in a horse yard
Green cestrum owers
Green cestrum unripe berries
Management notes
or spot sprayed with herbicide. Ensure all
parts of the plant are removed from the
ground as green cestrum can regrow from
root fragments.
your property.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with xanthiums.
Individual plants can be pulled out by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide. Wear gloves to avoid
the burrs of all plants and the spines of Bathurst burr.
Graze sheep on xanthium infested pastures to help suppress the weeds. Extreme care must be
taken to ensure the sheep only graze the plants between the stages of early growth and owering.
Newly germinated seedlings and seeds formed on the plant are toxic to all livestock species.

49
Glycosides
Night scented jasmine
(lady of the night, night jessamine)
Cestrum nocturnum [Solanaceae]
Night scented jasmine is native to South America.
The leaves and ripe berries of the plant may also
contain tropane alkaloids, see page 21. The green
berries may contain solanine, see page 72.
Night scented jasmine is an evergreen shrub that
grows to 2.5 m in height. The leaves of the plant
can grow to 15 cm long by 7 cm wide. The leaves
are shiny, green and are lance-shaped.
The plant owers in summer and autumn. The
tubular owers are greenish-white to yellow and
they are fragrant during the night. The owers
grow in clusters and each ower is around 2.5 cm
long.
Management notes
Night scented jasmine is not suitable for planting in paddocks, along paddock fences or in areas
The plant produces eshy berries that are small

and white, or occasionally black, red or purple.
The oval berries are around 1 cm across.
Garden ornamental.
Unopened owers of night scented jasmine
Photo: Pat Offord
50
Glycosides
Calcingenic
Calcinogenic glycosides
A small number of plants contain
a glycoside that is very similar to
calcitriol, which is the active form
of vitamin D. Calcitriol acts to
increase calcium absorption from
the gastrointestinal tract, increase
the mobilisation of calcium from
bones and decrease the excretion of
calcium. The ingestion of calcitriol-
like compounds in plant matter can
cause an excess of calcium in the
bloodstream. If calcium levels are
elevated for a prolonged period the
calcium can mineralise in muscles and
organs such as the heart, lungs, kidneys
and gastrointestinal tract.
The calcinogenic glycoside plant
present in Australia that may pose a
risk to horses is the day jasmine. There
are no conrmed reports of this plant
causing poisoning in Australian horses
but it has caused poisoning in horses
in the United States and several other
countries. The effects of ingested
calcinogenic plants are cumulative and
signs of poisoning may occur after a
horse has been grazing the plant for
several weeks or longer.
Signs of calcinogenic glycoside poisoning
The early signs of poisoning are
subtle and may go unnoticed. As the
condition progresses the signs that
may be seen in horses include:
Depression
Weakness
Weight loss
Loss of appetite
Irregular and rapid heartbeat

Stilted gait progressing to lameness
A horse may lie down for
prolonged periods
In severe cases death can occur
from heart and lung complications
Mildly affected horses usually recover
once the source of calcinogenic
glycosides has been removed from the

diet. Severely affected horses rarely
recover to their previous level of
performance and lameness problems
may be permanent. Veterinary care
should be sought if calcinogenic
glycoside poisoning is suspected in a
horse.
Day jasmine
(day blooming cestrum, day jessamine, white cestrum)
Cestrum diurnum [Solanaceae]
Day jasmine is native to tropical America and
the West Indies. Its relatives, night jasmine and
green cestrum, contain tropane alkaloids and
glycoalkaloids and although poisonous, they
do not cause calcinosis in horses. Day jasmine
contains several other toxins besides calcinogenic
glycosides. The green berries of the plant
contain glycoalkaloids (see page 72) and the
leaves and ripe berries contain tropane alkaloids
(see page 21).
Day jasmine is an evergreen shrub that grows to
2.5 m in height. The leaves of the plant can grow
Management notes
Day jasmine is not suitable for planting in paddocks, along paddock fences or in areas where
horses are kept.
Garden ornamental.
to 10 cm long by 4 cm wide. The leaves are shiny,
green and oval or oblong-shaped.
The plant owers throughout the year. The
tubular owers are white or occasionally
greenish-white and they are fragrant during the
day. The owers grow in clusters and each ower
is around 2 cm long.
The plant produces small greenish-white eshy
berries that turn purple and then black with
maturity. The oval berries are around 0.5 cm
across.
51
Alcohols and acids
Soluble oxalates
Identication note: distinguishing between the different grasses that grow in pastures can be extremely
difcult and only a basic description is given here. See page 5 for more information on obtaining a precise
identication of a plant species.
Alcohols and Acids
Soluble oxalates
Nutritional Secondary Hyperparathyroidism or big head
Introduced tropical grasses that
contain soluble oxalates are associated
with a condition in Australian horses
known as nutritional secondary
hyperparathyroidism or big head. This
condition is primarily a problem in
the northern areas of Australia where
introduced tropical grasses are most
common. Horses are most at risk of
developing big head if the tropical
grasses are the dominant species in
the pasture. Native grasses and many
introduced temperate grasses are not
associated with big head and are safe to
use as pasture species for horses.
The soluble oxalates in introduced
tropical grasses combine with calcium
to form insoluble calcium oxalate
crystals. The formation of these
crystals reduces the absorption of
calcium from ingested fodder and it
alters the calcium to phosphorus ratio
in the diet. In effect, the horse suffers
a calcium deciency. This deciency
causes mobilisation of bone calcium
to compensate for low blood calcium
levels. Over time the bones lose so
much calcium that they become soft
and misshapen.
Some or all horses grazing the same
pasture may be affected. Mares and
foals have been reported to be more
susceptible than stallions or geldings
but all horses can be affected. The
soluble oxalate content of tropical
grasses is highest in periods of rapid
pasture growth.
Signs of big head
Signs of the condition usually develop
after 6 - 8 months of grazing soluble
oxalate pastures. Some cases have
been reported to occur after only 2
months.
Stiff and shortened gait
Joint tenderness
Loss in condition even when plenty
of pasture is available
Swollen jawbones - the upper, lower
or both jawbones can be affected
Removal of the horse from the

soluble oxalate pasture should see the
resolution of lameness problems and
the horse should regain condition.
Facial swelling should also resolve,
unless it is severe.
Grasses associated with nutritional secondary
hyperparathyroidism
Upright perennial that grows to 1 m. Tough
rootstock. Fringe of hairs at inner junction of
leaf sheath and leaf blade. Bristled, branched
Setaria (South Africa pigeon grass)
Setaria sphacelata [Poaceae]
Compact tufted perennial that grows to 2 m.
Fringe of dense hairs at inner junction of leaf
sheath and leaf blade. Cylindrical ower spike up
Pangola grass
Digitaria eriantha ssp. pentzii (formerly known as Digitaria decumbens) [Poaceae]
Semi-erect perennial grass that grows to 1 m.
Produces underground shoots. Fringe of short
hairs at inner junction of leaf sheath and leaf
blade. The plant produces a group of 3 10
ower spikes up to 20 cm long.
Buffel grass
Cenchrus ciliaris [Poaceae]
to 30 cm long. Fine, rigid bristles on ower spike.
Spikelets in groups of 1 4. Under each spikelet
group there are 6 10 rough hairs.
ower spike up to 15 cm long. 1 3 spikelets per
cluster.
Horses showing signs of big head
Photo: Veterinary Pathology, University of Sydney
52
Alcohols and acids
Soluble oxalates
Guinea grass
Panicum maximum [Poaceae]
Densely tufted perennial that grows to 3 m.
Produces short, stout underground shoots. The
inner junction of leaf sheath and leaf blade is
thin and translucent. Branched ower spike up to
50 cm long.
Kikuyu
Pennisetum clandestinum [Poaceae]
Perennial that grows to almost 1 m. Many
underground (rhizomes) and aboveground
(stolons), root-like stems that can take root and
produce new growth. Fringe of dense hairs at
inner junction of leaf sheath and leaf. Flower
heads on short shoots. Spikelets in cluster of 2-4.
Spikelets enclosed in a sheath.
Para grass
Brachiaria mutica (also known as Urochloa mutica and Panicum muticum) [Poaceae]
Perennial that has long stems (stolons) that can
take root and produce new growth. The stolons
can be up to 4 m long. Fringe of dense hairs at
inner junction of leaf sheath and leaf. Produces
numerous branched ower spikes up to 8 cm long.
Signal grass
Brachiaria decumbens (also known as Urochloa decumbens) [Poaceae]
Perennial that has long stems (stolons) that can
take root and produce new growth. The stolons
can be up to 1.5 m long. Fringe of dense hairs at
inner junction of leaf sheath and leaf. Produces
2 3 ower spikes up to 8 cm long.
Purple pigeon grass
Setaria incrassata [Poaceae]
Perennial that grows to 2 m. Produces
underground shoots. The base of the inner
junction of leaf sheath and leaf blade is thin,
translucent and topped by hairs. Cylindrical,
ower spike up to 18 cm long.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures dominated by soluble oxalate grasses for periods longer than
1 month. This is particularly important when the grasses are rapidly growing.
Use a mix of pasture grasses and legumes in horse paddocks. Some of the grasses NOT
associated with big head include: all native grasses, Rhodes grass, paspalums, couches, creeping
blue grass, ryegrass and sorghums.
When there is no option but to graze horses on hazardous tropical grass pastures:
Encourage the growth of the legume component of the pasture.
Feed a calcium and phosphorus supplement. Seek veterinary advice to ensure that this is the right
management technique for your horse. A supplement mix should be made available to each horse
once a week for ad lib consumption, or the supplement could be split into portions and fed daily.
The supplement mix can consist of:
1 kg rock phosphate mixed with 1.5 kg molasses or,
1 kg mix consisting of 1/3 ground limestone and 2/3 dicalcium phosphate (DCP)
mixed with 1.5 kg molasses.
Use double these amounts under veterinary supervision as part of the management of horses
showing signs of nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism.

53
Alcohols and acids
Tannic acid
Tannic acid
Tannic acid is the main toxin found in
oak trees and shrubs. Tannic acid can
cause damage to the gastrointestinal
tract and can cause liver disease when
large amounts have been ingested.
Oak poisoning in horses is rare and
there are no conrmed reports of oak
poisoning in Australian horses. The
leaves are usually unpalatable and
the main risk to horses is from the
ingestion of acorns that have
fallen to the ground. Young oak
leaves and buds may be more
palatable to horses than older
leaves.
Signs of oak poisoning
The symptoms of oak poisoning can
progress rapidly and the horse may die
within days of the onset of symptoms.
The signs of oak poisoning that may
be seen in horses include:
Depression
Weakness, incoordination
Dehydration

other surface
Sweating
Diarrhoea
Red or brown urine
Convulsions
Coma followed by death

if oak poisoning is suspected in a
horse. Treatment and supportive care
may help with survival and subsequent
recovery. In mild cases the horse may
make a full recovery with supportive
veterinary care.
Oaks
Quercus spp [Fagaceae]
There are many different species of oak grown in
Australia. The trees are deciduous or evergreen
and can range in height from 1 m to 35 m. The
leaves of oak trees are usually leathery and
toothed, lobed or heart-shaped. The leaves of
deciduous oaks can turn shades of yellow, red,
orange and other colours before they fall in the
cooler months.
The female owers of oak trees are green and
very small. The male owers appear as long, thin
drooping clusters known as catkins. Flowering
occurs in spring. In autumn the trees produce
acorns that are round or oval.
Management notes
Oak trees are not suitable for planting in
Do not dispose of oak clippings or acorns
where horses could access them.
English oak (Quercus robur) - mature tree (above), bark (top

right) and catkins (centre right). Acorns of Quercus sp
(bottom right)
Shade trees, garden
ornamentals and street trees.
54
Alcohols and acids
Quinones
Quinones
The consumption of plants containing
quinones can cause photosensitisation
in horses and cases of St Johns
wort poisoning have been reported
in Australian horses. The toxin is a
quinone called hypericin. After ingestion
of the plant, hypercin is absorbed from
the gut, enters the bloodstream and is
transported to all tissues. When hypericin
present in the skin is activated by sunlight
it interacts with cell components leading
to tissue damage. The areas of skin
most at risk are those with minimal
pigmentation and areas exposed to direct
sunlight. The toxin in St Johns wort
is highest in the plant during rapid
growth in spring through to the end
of owering. Horses grazing pastures
heavily infested with St Johns wort can
develop photosensitisation within days
of initial exposure.
Signs of quinone poisoning
Redness and swelling of the skin
- the nose, lips, lower legs and the
areas around the eyes are most
commonly affected. The skin
may blister, crack and weep uid.
The horse may appear to be
sensitive to light
Lameness may occur in severe

cases where skin damage occurs
on the coronet and around joints
Some horses may appear restless
and may develop diarrhoea
The skin usually heals when access to

St Johns wort is restricted. The horse
should be kept out of direct sunlight
while the skin heals. Veterinary
attention should be sought.
St Johns wort
Hypericum perforatum [Clusiaceae]
St Johns wort is native to Europe, Asia and
North Africa. St Johns wort is a declared
noxious weed in Victoria, New South Wales,
Tasmania and Western Australia.
Upright perennial that usually grows 30 70
cm in height. The plant produces numerous
seeds that are contained in a sticky capsule. The
seeds can be spread by wind, as contaminants of
vehicle movements. The plant can also spread by
the growth of underground stems.
The hairless stems are upright and grow from
a woody base. The stems branch in opposite
pairs at an angle of 45 to the main stem. Most
branching occurs in the upper sections of the
main stems. The stems can be reddish in colour
and they have 2 ridges that run along their length.
The stalkless leaves are arranged on opposite sides
of the stem and are around 3 cm long by 1 cm
wide. The leaves are dotted with many oil glands
containing the hypericin toxin. The oil glands can
be seen by holding the leaves up to the light.
Flowering occurs during late spring and summer.
The owers are 1 3 cm across and have 5
elongated bright yellow petals. The owers
have numerous prominent stamens. The plant
produces a reddish-brown sticky fruit capsule
containing many seeds. St Johns wort seeds are
cylindrical, small (1 mm by 0.5mm) and dark
brown or blackish in colour.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with St Johns wort, particularly when the plant is
rapidly growing and owering.
Provide plenty of shade for horses if pasture contains any amount of St Johns wort.
Individual plants can be pulled out by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide. Ensure all parts of
the plant are removed from the ground as St Johns wort can regrow from root fragments or from
underground stems.
Graze adult sheep or cattle on heavily infested paddocks. Do not use freshly shorn sheep as they have
no protection from sunlight and may suffer photosensitivity problems. Heavy grazing by these species
in winter and early spring, when hypericin levels are low in the plant, can help suppress the weed. Do
not leave these animals on the infested pasture continuously as toxicity problems can occur.

roadsides, waterways and
forests.
55
Proteins & amino acids
Lectins
Proteins and Amino acids
Lectins
Lectins are proteins that can attach to
sugar molecules. The most toxic lectins
are called ricin and abrin and these are
two of the most poisonous substances
known. Although highly toxic, ricin
and abrin do not often cause poisoning
in horses because the leaves and seeds
of plants containing the toxins are
unpalatable. Ricin is present in castor
oil plant and abrin is in the Australian
native vine crabs eye. Other lectins can
be found in most beans, black locust
tree and Jatropha spp.
Lectins contained in leaves and seeds
do not cause poisoning unless the
toxins are released from the plant
material. This only occurs if the leaves
are well chewed or if the seed coat
has been pierced. Released toxins
from ingested plants that contain
lectins are absorbed from the gut into
the surrounding tissues. The lectins
ricin and abrin bind to proteins on
the surface of cells and this allows
the toxin access to the inside of the
cells. Through a complicated process,
ricin and abrin disrupt the ability of
cells to produce new proteins and
the cells die. Ricin also disrupts the
balance of calcium in the blood. The
lectins present in beans and other
lectin-containing plants can interfere
with nutrient absorption and can cause
gastrointestinal problems.
All parts of plants containing lectins are
poisonous but most cases of poisoning
are associated with the ingestion
of seeds, as this part of the plant
contains the highest levels of toxins.
Poisoning is often the result of seed
contamination of grain.
Signs of lectin poisoning
The signs of poisoning can appear
within hours or days after ingestion
of the toxic plant material. The signs
that may be seen include:
Loss of appetite
Colic
Diarrhoea in severe cases the
diarrhoea contains blood
Weight loss
Dehydration
In cases of black locust poisoning
the horse may have dilated pupils
and develop heart irregularities
In severe cases of lectin poisoning

where the horse has not received
prompt treatment, death may
occur through hypovolemic shock
(a condition where the heart is
unable to supply blood to the body
because blood loss or uid loss has
caused low blood volume)
There is no specic treatment for lectin
poisoning. Veterinary attention should
be sought and the administration of
activated charcoal may prevent further
absorption of further toxins from
the gut. Supportive care and the
administration of uids and other
medications will help with recovery.
Horses do not often die from the
ingestion of lectin-containing plants.
Although some lectins are extremely
toxic, the seeds must be thoroughly
chewed or crushed for the toxins to
be absorbed and in most cases very
few ingested seeds will be chewed
sufciently to release toxins.
Castor oil plant
Ricinus communis [Euphorbiaceae]
Castor oil plant is native to Asia and Africa.
Castor oil plant is a declared noxious weed in
New South Wales, the Northern Territory and
Western Australia.
Castor oil plant is a perennial shrub that usually
grows to 3 m tall but can occasionally grow to
4 m. The plant produces seeds that are
explosively released from the seed capsule when
mature. The seed can be spread by water run-
off, dumped as garden waste, transported as
contaminants of hay and grain, or spread through
animal and vehicle movements.
The thick, branched stems are greyish-green and
sometimes have a reddish tinge. The stems are
hollow and hairless. The leaves can be up to
10 cm by 70 cm and they have 7 9 triangular or
elongated lobes with nely toothed edges. Each
lobe has a prominent vein along the centre. The
leaves are glossy and are often dark red when
Weed of pastures, gardens,
56
Lectins
young and green or bluish-green when mature.
Leaf stalks can be up to 30 cm long.
Flowering occurs in summer. The owers are
elongated and grow in clusters near the tips of
the branches. The male owers grow at the
bottom of the ower cluster and are cream or
yellow in colour with a uffy appearance. The
female owers are produced at the top of the
ower cluster and they have a large seed capsule
with 3 red feathery styles at the top. The seed
capsules are green, greenish-red or bright red
when young and are covered in spines. They are
brown when mature and they open to release
mottled grey and brown seeds that are around
1 cm by 1.5 cm.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with castor oil plant.
Check grain for castor oil plant seed contamination. The seeds are mottled grey and brown and
are around 1 cm by 1.5 cm.
Crabs eye
(jequirity bean, rosary bean, Gidee Gidee)
Abrus precatorius [Fabaceae]
Above: Castor oil plant ower spike showing the red feathery
styles of the female owers and the cream coloured male owers.
Left: Maturing seed pods. Remnants of the red styles can still
be seen on the pods.
Crabs eye is native to Australia.
Crabs eye is a deciduous climber that grows to
3.5 m in height. The plant has a slender twining
stem. The leaves can be up to 12 cm long and they
are fern-like. The elliptical leaets are up to 2 cm
long and they grow in pairs along the leaf stalk.
The owers are white to lilac-pink and are up to
1 cm wide. The owers appear in sprays up to
10 cm long. The at brown seedpods are around
5 cm long and they open to release red and black
seeds. Flowering occurs in summer.
Found in open forests
and coastal bushland. It
is grown as a garden
ornamental in some areas.
Photo: Ken Harris
57
Lectins
Black locust is a deciduous tree that can grow
10 20 m in height. The branches have paired
spines at the point where the leaves attach. The
leaves are 8 15 cm long and have numerous
leaets that are 2 5 cm long and 1 2 cm wide.
The bark of the tree is thick and deeply furrowed.
Flowering occurs in spring. The perfumed
owers are white, pink or purple in colour and
they are pea-like. The owers hang from the
branches in showy tresses up to 15 cm long. The
individual owers are up to 2 cm wide. The plant
produces brown seedpods that are 5 10 cm long
and 1 2 cm wide.
Black locust produces suckers and these may
grow to form dense clumps that crowd out other
plants. Black locust is used as rootstock for
grafted varieties of robinia that are sold through
nurseries. If the roots of these grafted plants are
disturbed, the black locust rootstock can produce
numerous sucker plants that are very hard to
control.
Management notes
Black locusts are not suitable for planting in paddocks, along paddock fences or in areas where
horses are kept.
Black locust should be removed from horse paddocks if present. If suckers appear after the tree
has been removed they should be cut off close to the base and the stump should be painted with
herbicide.
Take care not to tie a horse near black locust trees as the horse may chew the toxic bark.
Jatropha
Jatropha species are native to the Caribbean and
tropical Central and South America. They are
declared noxious weeds in Western Australia,
Queensland and the Northern Territory.
Jatrophas contain a toxic lectin called curcin in all
parts of the plant, particularly in the seeds.
Bellyache bush
(cotton leaf physic nut, black physic nut)
Jatropha gossypiifolia [Euphorbiaceae]
Garden ornamental, shade
tree, park tree and street
tree. Considered a weed in
some areas..
Photo: Ken Harris
Black locust
(false acacia, locust tree, yellow locust, robinia)
Robinia pseudoacacia [Fabaceae]
Management notes
Poisoning of horses through ingestion of the seeds of crabs eye is unlikely. The plant is
unpalatable and the seed coat is very hard and if ingested it will usually pass through the gut
intact. However, the plant does contain a powerful toxin and it should not be used as an
ornamental species in horse areas. The plant should be removed from paddocks if present.

Bellyache bush is an upright shrub or small tree
growing to 3 m in height and occasionally to
4 m.
The plant produces seeds that are explosively
released from the seedpods and can be spread
by water run-off. Bellyache bush also produces
suckers that originate from the roots.
The stems are thick and are densely covered
in hairs when young. The leaves are purple in
colour and sticky when young. Older leaves are
bright green. The leaves can be up to 10 cm in
58
Lectins
Physic nut
(Cuban physic nut, Brazilian stinging nut, curcas bean, purge nut, black vomit nut)
Jatropha curcas [Euphorbiaceae]
Physic nut is an upright shrub or small tree
growing to 4 m in height. It produces seeds that
are explosively released from the seedpods and
can be spread by water run-off. Physic nut also
produces suckers that originate from the roots.
The stems are thick and are sparsely covered in
hairs when young. The leaves are dark green in
colour and are smooth and shiny. The leaves
can be up to 15 cm in width and are alternately
arranged on the stems. The leaf stalks are up
to 13 cm long. The leaves are heart-shaped and
have 3 or 5 shallow lobes.
Flowering occurs throughout the year. The
owers are small and pale yellow to greenish in
colour. The owers grow in clusters from the
point where the leaves attach to the stem. The
plant produces a eshy seed capsule that is green
initially but turns to yellow and then dark brown
as it matures.
Management notes
Jatropha are not suitable for planting in paddocks, along paddock fences or in areas where horses
are kept.
Jatropha should be removed from horse paddocks if present.
Beans
Some beans contain lectins in varying amounts
and some contain other anti-nutritional factors.
Moist heat is a method commonly used to make
beans safe to include in horse rations. The beans
can be crushed and then soaked in boiling water
for 2 hours.
Be sure to correctly identify each component
when formulating feed rations for horses. This
is especially important when using peas or
beans (known as grain legumes or pulses). A
case report from the United States describes
a situation in 2003 where a batch of complete
feed included raw white kidney beans. The
bean was included in the ration in the mistaken
belief that it was from the pea family (Pisum spp).
On one farm twenty-one horses were fed the
woodlands and roadsides.
width and are alternately arranged on the stems.
The leaf stalks are up to 7 cm long. The leaves
have 3 or 5 pointed lobes and the stalks and leaf
edges are covered in sticky hairs.
Flowering occurs in summer and autumn. The
owers have 5 purple or red coloured petals and
yellow centres. The owers grow in clusters from
the point where the leaves attach to the stem.
The plant produces a seed capsule that is green
and hairy.
woodlands and waterways.
59
Lectins
Red kidney beans Phaseolus vulgaris
Lima bean Phaseolus lunatus (also known as
Phaseolus limensis)
Broad beans, faba beans Vicia faba
ration and within 4 hours of ingesting the feed
twenty horses showed signs of colic. Ten hours
after exposure one horse showed neurological
symptoms such as tremors, blindness and seizures
and this horse was euthanased. All other horses
recovered. On a second farm eighteen horses
were fed the same ration and all developed colic
within 4 hours of ingestion. All of these horses
recovered with treatment.
60
Propyl disulde
Propyl disulde
All plants from the Allium genus
contain propyl disulde.
The ingestion of propyl disulde can
lead to the formation of oxygen free
radicals that damage the membrane
of red blood cells and cause the
cells to release haemoglobin. The
haemoglobin binds to the inside of
the red blood cells to form what are
called Heinz bodies. The damaged
red blood cells are removed from
circulation, resulting in anaemia.
Poisoning of horses by these plants is
very uncommon. An overseas study
showed that the inclusion of relatively
large amounts of onion tops in the diet
of horses can induce anaemia within
a week and this anaemia can become
life threatening within less than 2
weeks. The study demonstrated that
plants from the Allium genus are toxic
to horses, especially when fed in large
amounts over time. Some species of
Allium are important pasture weeds in
Australia and may be a risk to horses.
Signs of propyl disulde poisoning
Dark red-brown urine
Pale mucous membranes
Increased heart rate
Staggering and partial paralysis in
severe cases
Onion breath is a distinctive sign

of propyl disulde poisoning
Horses generally recover over the
course of several weeks if the source
of the propyl disulde is removed.
Fluid treatment can help with
recovery in severe cases. Abortion
has been reported in pregnant mares
suffering signicant anaemia.
Allium spp
[Alliaceae]
The Allium genus of plants includes onion,
garlic, leek, shallot and chive. The genus also
contains several plants that are important weeds
of gardens, pastures and crops. Three cornered
garlic (Allium triquetrum) and crow garlic (Allium
vineale) are declared noxious weeds in several
states.
Plants in the Allium genus usually have an onion
or garlic odour when crushed. The plants grow
from bulbs that are sometimes surrounded by
small bulblets.
The leaves of allium can be solid or hollow and
they can be at, cylindrical and tapering, or they
can be triangular in cross section.
The owers are umbellate, which means that the
stalks of the individual owers arise from a single
Management notes
Onion tops from cultivated onions should not be fed to horses as an alternative feedstuff.
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with plants from the Allium genus.
Ornamental alliums are not suitable for planting along paddock fences or in areas where horses
are kept.
Alliums found as weeds in paddocks should be removed by hand (ensure that all of the bulblets
are removed from the ground) or they can be sprayed with herbicide. Seek advice from a local
agronomist or weed management agency to select the most appropriate herbicide and spray
program for your property.
point at the top of the main ower stem. The

owers are usually white or pink.
Garlic supplements
Garlic (Allium sativum) is a popular feed
supplement for horses. In a recent study
(Pearson et al, 2005), horses were fed freeze-dried
garlic at a daily dose of 0.2 g/kg over several
months and these horses developed Heinz body
anaemia.
The researchers concluded that horses would
voluntarily eat garlic in sufcient quantities to
cause toxicity. Further studies on safe dose rates
for garlic supplements are indicated. Horse
owners should take care when feeding garlic as a
supplement, especially if fed over long periods.
Native bushland species,
pasture weeds, cultivated
garden ornamentals and
food crops.
Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)
61
Thiaminase
Thiaminase
Thiaminase is an enzyme that can be
found in some plants. Thiaminase
destroys dietary thiamine (vitamin
B1) in the digestive tract before it
can be absorbed. This leads to a
thiamine deciency. Sufcient levels of
thiamine are necessary for the normal
metabolism of energy. In horses, this
disruption to energy metabolism leads
to neurological problems.
Thiaminase poisoning is not commonly
reported as the plants are unpalatable
to horses. Horses may eat thiaminase-
containing plants if other fodder is
scarce. Poisoning could occur if horses
are fed hay contaminated with plants
containing thiaminase.
Thiamine deciency can develop after
1 2 months grazing pasture infested
with thiaminase-containing plants or
after ingestion of contaminated hay. The
symptoms are progressive and appear in
the general order of the list below.
Signs of thiaminase poisoning
Rapid weight loss, even if the
horse has a good appetite
Lethargy
Irregular heart rate
Incoordination when asked to
walk, staggers
Wide stance with arched back. The
horse may appear to be crouching
Severe tremors may develop and

the horse may be unable to rise if it
falls down
Pulse becomes fast and weak
The horse may lie down, convulse
and die
After the initial symptoms appear the

disease progresses rapidly and without
veterinary attention, the horse may
die within 2 - 10 days. Fluid therapy,
the administration of activated
charcoal and intravenous thiamine
hydrochloride injections are used to
treat affected horses.
Bracken
Pteridium spp [Dennstaedtiaceae]
Bracken is native to Australia and it is considered
a weed in many parts of the country. There are
several species of bracken but the most common
is Pteridium esculentum. The hardy, persistent
underground root system (rhizomes) of bracken
give the plant a competitive edge over pasture
species and it can quickly become the dominant
species. Old, fallen leaves form a mulch cover
that can prevent the germination of desirable
species in pastures.
Bracken poisoning is uncommon in horses. The
plant is usually unpalatable but may be eaten if
other pasture is scarce. Poisoning could occur
through the ingestion of contaminated hay.
Affected horses are said to have bracken staggers.
Bracken is a true fern that does not produce
owers or seeds. The plant reproduces by
spores that occur in continuous lines on the
undersides of the fronds. The spores are tiny
and can be dispersed great distances by wind or
water run-off. Bracken also has an extensive
underground root system that gives rise to new
shoots. Sections of rhizome can be transported
to new areas during cultivation or other practices
that move soil.
The plant has stiff upright fronds that grow on
hard brown stalks. The fronds can grow
0.5 1 m in height and occasionally to 1.5
m. The plant is an annual but in some areas it
persists for 2 years. The fronds appear in spring
and they are coiled and bright green when young.
As the fronds mature they unfurl and become
harder and darker in colour.
Above left: immature bracken frond
Left: mature bracken frond
Grows in open forests,
grasslands and native
bushland. Weed of
pastures.
62
Thiaminase
Management notes
with bracken.
Check hay for bracken contamination.
To prevent the spread of bracken rhizomes
ensure that machinery is cleaned if it has been
used in bracken infested areas.
Cultivation of the soil in summer will break
up the rhizomes and bring them to the
surface where they dry out and die. This
should be done each summer over 2 3 years.
Repeated slashing to destroy fronds before
Nardoo
Marsilea drummondii [Marsileaceae]
Nardoo is a native Australian plant. It can grow
quickly after ooding to become the dominant
ground cover in pastures. The plant contains
very high levels of thiaminase in the early stage
of growth. Horses are most at risk of exposure
to nardoo after ooding. Nardoo has reportedly
caused poisoning in horses in Australia, although
cases are rare.
Nardoo is an aquatic plant that can grow in water,
in mud at the edge of inland lakes, waterholes,
roadside drains or rivers and in other areas after
ooding has occurred. The plant is a perennial
fern that produces fronds that are upright when
growing in mud and oating when growing in
water.
The fronds of the plant consist of 2 pairs of
leaets that resemble a four-leaf clover. The
plant produces spores inside an organ called a
sporocarp and this hard structure is about the
size of a pea.
The plant can produce spores and germinate
in response to changes in moisture. The plants
thrive in mud but as the ground dries out the
plant dies. The sporocarp drops off the plant
and can remain viable for 20 30 years. When
the area again oods the sporocarp opens and
new plants germinate.
Waterfowl can spread nardoo because ingested
sporocarps pass through the birds intact. The
spore cases can also be spread by oodwaters and
by wind.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on nardoo infestations.
Move animals to alternative pasture if nardoo infestation occurs after ooding.
Nardoo growing in mud

Found in and adjacent
to waterways, lakes and
waterholes. Grows
abundantly in pastures after
ooding.
they mature can decrease the production of spores. Slashing should
be done monthly from late spring through to late summer and this technique will need to be
continued over at least 3 years.
Herbicides can be used in conjunction with the above methods. Seek advice from a local
agronomist or weed management agency to select the most appropriate herbicide and spray
Nardoo growing in water
63
Thiaminase
Rock ferns
Cheilanthes spp [Adiantaceae]
Rock ferns are native Australian ferns. The plants
contain high levels of thiaminase but there are no
conrmed reports of poisoning in horses caused
by rock fern. The risk to horses from this fern is
very low.
Management notes
Remove rock ferns from paddocks if found growing as weeds.
Horsetails
Equisetum spp [Equisetaceae]
Horsetails are native to Europe, North America
and Asia. They were introduced to Australia as
ornamental garden species and in some areas
they have spread from gardens and have caused
infestations that have been difcult to control.
Horsetails are not widespread in Australia at
present but they are on the Federal Governments
Alert List for Environmental Weeds because of their
potential to cause signicant damage in this
country. Horsetails are declared noxious weeds
in all states except the Northern Territory. Cases
of horse poisoning caused by the ingestion of
horsetails in pasture or as contaminants of hay
have been reported in other countries where the
plant is more common.
Horsetails are primitive plants that do not
produce true owers. They are upright perennials
that grow to 50 cm to 1.2 m in height depending
on the species. The plants produce green sterile
shoots that branch and are hollow. The plants
also produce fertile pale brown unbranched
shoots. The fertile shoots bear fruiting cones
and they die back each year. Both types of
shoots have joints that break easily when pulled.
The shoots grow from long underground stems
(rhizomes) that can be very deep in the soil.
Sections of rhizome can be transported to new
areas during cultivation or other practices that
move soil. Horsetails can also be spread through
the dumping of garden waste containing rhizomes.
Very small leaves grow on the shoots in rings of
6 18 and the leaves are joined at the base to
form a rim of teeth around the stem.
The fruiting cones are up to 4 cm long and they
contain numerous pale green or yellow spores.
Management notes
Do not grow horsetails as ornamental plants.
Horsetails are not common in Australia but it is important to be aware of the plants both for their
potential toxicity to horses and their potential to be an invasive weed.
Control of horsetails is extremely difcult. Most herbicides have a limited effect as they can not
penetrate the plant. Hand pulling the weed is ineffective as the plants break off along the stem
and it is difcult to remove all parts of the rhizomes from the ground. The plant can regrow
from even the tiniest bit of rhizome that has been left in the ground. Control of horsetails
requires specialised techniques and expert assistance. Outbreaks of the weed should be reported
immediately to your local council or to your state or territory weed management agency.

Rock ferns are clumping plants that have green
fronds. The ferns can grow from 2 40 cm in
height and they produce spores.
Above: Young horsetail plant.
Right: Closeup of horsetail stem showing the point of
attachment of a ring of leaves. Note the joints on the stem
and on the leaves.
Most commonly found
amongst rocks, in open
forests and woodlands.
The ferns are not often
found in open pastures.
Present in some Australian
gardens. Grows as a weed
near populated areas. It is
present around Adelaide,
Sydney and scattered areas
of New South Wales.
Small outbreaks have been
recorded in Tasmania,
Victoria and Queensland.
64
Terpenes
Diterpene esters
Terpenes
Diterpene esters
Diterpene esters are present in the sap
of plants of the genus Euphorbia. The
amount of toxins contained in the sap
varies between species.
Diterpene esters are skin and
gastrointestinal tract irritants. The
toxins activate an enzyme that causes
damage to the structure of tissue cells
and they cause the dysfunction of
several other enzymes.
The sap in euphorbias is toxic in fresh
or dried plants. Most species have
relatively low toxicity and cause only
mild effects if ingested. The most
toxic euphorbias are the leafy spurges
and these plants are commonly found
as pasture weeds and can sometimes be
found as contaminants of hay. Cases
of euphorbia poisoning in horses are
not commonly reported in Australia.
The plants are usually unpalatable
to horses but may be eaten if other
pasture is scarce. Poisoning could
also occur through the ingestion of
contaminated hay.
The onset of symptoms can occur
within minutes of ingestion of
euphorbia plant material containing
high levels of diterpene esters.
Signs of diterpene ester poisoning
Irritation and blistering of the
mouth and the skin around the
mouth
Salivation
Colic and diarrhoea can occur in
severe cases
Leafy spurges
Euphorbia is a very large and diverse genus with
over 1500 species, around forty of these can be
found in Australia. The distinguishing features
of this genus are the milky sap of the plants and
the unique structure of the owers. The owers
are usually very small and consist of both male
and female owers. Bracts that look like leaves
or petals surround the owers. The bracts are
often green but can also be brightly coloured, for
example the red bracts of poinsettia.
Described below are two euphorbias that are
commonly found as weeds in pastures.
False caper
(Geraldton carnation weed, terracina spurge)
Euphorbia terracina [Euphorbiaceae]
False caper is native to the Mediterranean region.
It is a common weed in crops and pastures in
Australia and it is a declared noxious weed in
South Australia and Western Australia.
False caper is an upright perennial that grows to 1 m
in height. The plant has numerous green to reddish
stems that arise from ground level. The stems
branch towards the top of the plant above a whorl
of leaves. These smaller branches support the
owering stems that grow at the top of the plant.
The leaves are bright green or yellowish-green.
The lower leaves are alternately arranged and do
not have stalks. The upper leaves are arranged on
opposite sides of the stem and they are smaller
than the lower leaves.
owers consist of several tiny male owers and
one female ower. A pair of green leafy bracts
surrounds the owers.
Weed of pastures, roadsides,
gardens and crops.
The red ower bracts of poinsettia
Topical ointments can be used to treat
skin irritation. Veterinary attention
should be sought, especially if
symptoms are severe.
65
Terpenes
Diterpene esters
Petty spurge Petty spurge
(milk weed)
Euphorbia peplus [Euphorbiaceae]
Petty spurge is native to North America. It
is commonly found as a weed in gardens and
pastures in Australia.
Petty spurge is an upright annual that grows to
50 cm in height. The plant usually has a single
stem but it sometimes has 2 or 4 stems that arise
from ground level.
The leaves are pale green. The lower leaves are
alternately arranged along the stems on short
stalks. The upper leaves are arranged on opposite
sides of the stem and are smaller than the lower
leaves.
Flowering occurs in winter and spring. The
owers consist several tiny male owers and
one female ower. Yellow-green leafy bracts
surround the owers.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pasture infested with
Euphorbia species.
Check hay for euphorbia contamination.
Individual plants should be pulled out by
hand or spot sprayed with herbicide. Wear
gloves to avoid the irritant milky sap.
from a local agronomist or weed management agency to select the most appropriate herbicide
and spray program for your property.
Weed of pastures,
roadsides and gardens.
66
Terpenes
Meliatoxins
Meliatoxins
The tree known as white cedar contains
Meliatoxins. All parts of the tree are
extremely poisonous but it is thought
that the fruits are most toxic. The tree
contains various other toxins including
alkaloids and resins.
There are no conrmed reports of
horse poisoning due to the ingestion of
white cedar leaves or fruit in Australia.
The tree has caused poisoning in
many other livestock species and some
reports suggest that horse poisonings
have occurred in other countries.
The leaves and fruit are bitter and
unpalatable.
The mechanism by which meliatoxins
cause poisoning is presently unknown.
Signs of meliatoxin poisoning
There is little information available on
the signs of poisoning or treatment
options for meliatoxin poisoning in
horses. This lack of information
probably reects the rarity of white
cedar poisoning in horses. If a horse
were to ingest the leaves or seed of
this tree, the following signs may be
seen:
Diarrhoea and straining
Colic
Excess salivation
Incoordination and excited
behaviour
Seizures
Depression
Paralysis, coma and death
Signs of poisoning usually appear

within 2 hours of ingestion and
the symptoms are progressive.
Immediate veterinary attention
should be sought if it is suspected
that a horse has been poisoned by
white cedar. Once the symptoms
become severe there is little chance
of recovery.
White cedar
(cape lilac, Chinaberry, Persian lilac, Texas umbrella tree, tulip cedar, umbrella cedar)
Melia azedarach [Meliaceae]
White cedar is native to southeast Asia and
northern Australia. It is commonly grown as a
street tree and in gardens in Australia.
White cedar is a deciduous tree that usually grows
to around 15 m in height but can grow taller.
The furrowed bark of the tree is grey-brown in
colour.
The leaves can be up to 45 cm long and are
branched, with leaf branches bearing 3 5 pairs
of leaets. The leaets are usually around 7 cm
long by 2.5 cm wide. The edges of the leaves are
toothed.
The tree bears mauve or lilac owers in spring to
early summer. The owers appear in drooping
clusters that can be up to 20 cm long. Each
ower has 5 spreading petals.
The tree produces green fruits that dimple and
turns yellow or brown with maturity. The fruits
are about 1.5 cm wide and are eshy around a
hard centre. The fruits often stay on the tree
after the leaves have fallen in late winter.
Management notes
White cedar is not suitable for planting in
Do not put clippings of white cedar in areas
where horses may access them.
Adaptable tree that is grown

in gardens and as a street
tree and park tree. The tree
is native to the Kimberly
region and has naturalised in
other areas of Australia.
67
Other toxins
Other toxins
Black bean
(Moreton Bay chestnut)
Castanospermum australe [Fabaceae]
Black is native to Australia. The tree is most
suited to warm rainforest areas, however it is a
hardy species that has been utilised as a park tree,
shade tree and garden ornamental in many areas
of eastern Australia.
Black bean is a large tree that grows to
40 m. The leaves are 30 60 cm long and are
dark green and shiny. The leaves have leaets
arranged along a centre leaf stem. The leaets
are elliptical in shape and can be up to 12 cm
long. The branches are low and spreading when
the tree is grown in open space.
The tree owers in mid - late spring
and bears sprays of red and yellow
pea-shaped owers. The owers are 3
4 cm long. The tree produces large
cylindrical pods that can be up to 25 cm
long. The pods split in two and have up
to 5 large bean-type seeds inside.
Management notes
Black bean is not suitable for
planting in paddocks, along paddock
fences or in areas where horses are
kept.
Photos: Pat Offord

Occurs naturally in
rainforest areas. Grown
as an ornamental in
parks, along streets and in
gardens.
Black bean
The ripe seeds of this tree contain
an unknown toxin or toxins. Cases
of poisoning through the ingestion
of black bean seeds are uncommon
in all livestock species. Ingestion of
the seeds has been reported to cause
poisoning in cattle and less commonly
in horses.
The toxins in ripe black bean seeds
can cause severe irritation of the
gastrointestinal tract and in horses there
have been reports of sudden death,
however this is a very rare occurrence.
The seeds of black bean trees are
usually avoided by horses but may
be eaten when other forage is scarce,
particularly in dry seasons and during
times of prolonged drought. The
greatest risk occurs when large numbers
of ripe black bean seeds have fallen to
the ground and are accessible to horses.
The tree is common in some areas of
Australia and it should be considered a
risk to horses.
Signs of black bean poisoning
The ingestion of ripe black bean seeds
can cause severe irritation of the
gastrointestinal tract and the signs of
poisoning that may be seen include:
Depression
Weight loss
Diarrhoea that may contain blood.

The faeces may appear dark and
tarry
Laboured breathing
Frequent urination
Sudden death can occur in some
rare cases.

if black bean poisoning is suspected
in a horse. Fluid therapy and the
administration of activated charcoal
may be used to help with recovery.
68
Other toxins
Crofton weed and Mistower
Crofton weed is a signicant pasture
weed in Australia and it is highly
toxic to horses. The toxin that causes
poisoning in horses has not yet been
identied.
Regular ingestion of the weed causes
chronic lung disease and the condition
has been reported in horses in Australia
and in several other countries.
The exact mechanism by which the
toxins in crofton weed cause damage
to the lungs of the horse is unknown.
The air sacs in the lungs become
inamed and subsequent scar tissue
is produced (brosis). The fragile
walls of the air sacs are permanently
damaged and this leads to a reduced
ability of the lungs to transfer oxygen
to the bloodstream. The horse
develops a cough and is unable to
tolerate exercise. Horses are the only
animals affected by the ingestion of
crofton weed.
Experimental feeding studies have
shown that the ingestion of mistower
can cause the same symptoms in
horses as those seen with crofton weed
poisoning. The toxicity of mistower
is thought to be less than that of
crofton weed and there have been no
conrmed reports of poisoning cases
outside of the feeding studies.
Horses will readily eat crofton weed
and mistower and they will sometimes
eat these plants in preference to other
pasture species. The plants can be
found as contaminants of hay, although
the toxicity of the dried plants is less
than when fresh. The plants are most
toxic when in ower.
Crofton weed poisoning in horses is
known as Numinbah horse sickness
in New South Wales and Tallebudgera
horse disease in Queensland.
Signs of crofton weed and mistower poisoning
The toxins in crofton weed and
mistower are thought to have a
cumulative effect. The symptoms of
poisoning may develop after only a
few weeks or after several months of
grazing infested pasture. The toxin in
these plants damages lung tissue and
the signs include:
Coughing, particularly during
exercise
Exercise intolerance
Depression
Loss of condition
Laboured breathing
Respiratory failure leading to death
There is no known treatment for the
condition and lung damage caused by
these plants is largely permanent. Early
recognition of the signs of poisoning
and removal of the source of the toxic
plants from the affected horses diet

is essential to prevent further damage
to the lungs. Moderately to severely
affected horses may never again be
capable of strenuous exercise and may
be at risk of sudden respiratory failure
if forced to exercise. Veterinary
attention should be sought if crofton
weed or mistower poisoning is
suspected in the horse.
Crofton weed
(catweed, sticky eupatorium, Mexican devil, sticky snakeroot)
Ageratina adenophora (also known as Eupatorium adenophorum, Eupatorium glandulosum or
Eupatorium pasdadense) [Asteraceae]
Crofton weed is native to Mexico. Crofton weed
spreads rapidly and it can quickly become the
dominant species in a pasture. It is declared a
noxious weed in New South Wales and Western
Australia.
Crofton weed is an upright perennial that usually
grows 1 2 m tall but can occasionally grow to
3 m. The plant produces seeds that are easily
spread by wind or water run-off. The seeds can
also be spread through contaminated hay and
other feedstuffs. Mature plants can produce up
to 100,000 seeds each year.
Many branching stems are produced from a
woody base. Young stems are densely covered
in sticky hairs and older stems are woody. The
stems can be green, reddish or purplish in
colour.
The leaves are arranged on opposite sides of
the stem and can be up to 7.5 cm long by 5 cm
Weed of pastures, roadsides,
waterways, bushland, forests
and crops.
69
Other toxins
wide. The leaves have stalks up to 4 cm long and
these stalks are covered in sticky hairs. The leaves
can be trowel-shaped to triangular and the tip
is sharply pointed. The edges of the leaves are
serrated or scalloped.
Flowering usually occurs from spring to early
summer in northern regions and from late
summer to autumn in southern regions. The
owers are around 7 mm across and they do not
Mistower
(creeping crofton weed, small crofton weed, cats paw, river eupatorium, white weed)
Ageratina riparia (also known as Eupatorium riparium) [Asteraceae]
Mistower is native to Mexico and South
America. It can quickly become the dominant
species in pastures and it has been declared a
noxious weed in New South Wales, the Northern
Territory and Western Australia.
Mistower is a scrambling perennial that usually
grows 40 60 cm tall but can grow to 1 m. The
plant produces seeds that are easily spread by
wind or water run-off. The seeds can attach to
animals, clothing or vehicles and can be spread
through contaminated hay and other feedstuffs.
The many branching stems are relatively weak
and tend to grow sideways at rst and then
upward (decumbent). The stems have nodes
from which new roots can grow. The stems
are sparsely covered in ne hairs and are often
purplish in colour.
The leaves are arranged on opposite sides of
the stem and have stalks up to 1.5 cm long. The
lance-shaped leaves can be up to 7.5 cm long by
2.5 cm wide and they taper to a point at both
ends. The edges of the leaves are serrated with
forward-pointing teeth.
Flowering usually occurs from late winter to
spring, with most of the owering occurring in
mid-spring. The owers are very similar to those
of crofton weed.
Management notes
Do not graze horses on pastures infested with crofton weed or mistower. Horses will not avoid
eating these weeds and they may prefer them to other pasture species.
Check batches of hay and chaff for crofton weed or mistower contamination. The dried plants
have lost some of their toxicity but chronic consumption may still cause poisoning.
Individual plants can be pulled out by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide. Mature plants will
need to be dug out with a mattock as regrowth can occur if the crown is left behind.
The use of herbicides on larger infestations is most effective if done in late summer to autumn.
Seek advice from a local agronomist or weed management agency to select the most appropriate
herbicide and spray program for your property.
Regularly slash infested pasture to reduce owering and seed production. Slashing weakens the plants,
giving desirable pasture species a chance to recover and compete. Slashing does not make the pasture
safe for horses as they will eat the dried plants from the ground. Horses should not be reintroduced to
the paddock until the weeds have been completely removed and this may take several seasons.
The establishment of competitive pastures can control crofton weed and mistower. The weeds
can not germinate in densely growing pasture. Implement grazing management techniques to
ensure a good ground cover to prevent crofton weed or mistower establishing in bare patches.
Graze adult non-pregnant goats on heavily infested paddocks as they are more tolerant to the
toxins and they will readily eat the weeds. Heavy grazing by goats can suppress seed set in crofton
weed and mistower. Do not leave the goats on the infested pasture continuously as toxicity
problems can occur.
have any true petals. The ower is made up of

many tiny tubular orets surrounded by a row of
bracts. The orets are white and are around
5 mm long. The owers are arranged in clusters
at the tips of the branches. The small slender
seeds are blackish-brown and are slightly curved.
They are topped with a ring of whitish hairs that
are about twice as long as the seed. The hairs
drop off the seed at maturity.
Weed of pastures,
roadsides, waterways,
bushland, open forests and
rainforests clearings.
70
Other toxins
Australian stringhalt
Flatweed has been implicated as
the cause of the condition known
as Australian stringhalt. The weeds
smooth atweed and dandelion may
be associated with Australian stringhalt
but this has not been conrmed. It
is thought that the development of
Australian stringhalt may involve
particular environmental factors or
the growth of a soil fungus on the
suspected weeds. Research is needed
to dene the exact plants responsible
for, and the conditions under which,
Australian stringhalt develops in horses.
The condition most commonly occurs
in Australia but it has also been
reported in New Zealand and North
America.
Australian stringhalt usually occurs in
late summer or early autumn and it
most commonly occurs after a break
in dry weather or drought conditions.
Horses that graze poor quality pastures
infested with a high concentration of
the weeds seem to be most at risk.
Usually a number of cases are seen in
the one herd, although single cases have
been reported.
The toxin or toxins that cause
stringhalt in horses are unknown. The
symptoms seen with this condition are
a consequence of damage to the long
nerves. The symptoms usually appear
abruptly and may worsen over several
weeks.
Signs of Australian stringhalt
Involuntary exion and delayed
extension of the hocks. This
exaggerated exion of the hind
limbs is more noticeable when
backing or turning and the exion
can be so severe that the front of
the fetlock may strike the belly.
Horses sometimes adopt a bunny
hop gait. Both hind limbs are
usually affected and the forelimbs
are occasionally affected.
Wasting of the muscles can occur

around the hindquarters and
occasionally around the forelimbs.
Roaring may develop if the nerves
supplying the larynx are affected.
Horses will usually recover if moved
to paddocks that are free of atweed
and other suspected weeds. The
recovery time varies and may take days
or up to 18 months, with the average
recovery time being 6 - 12 months.

if Australian stringhalt is suspected
in a horse. Research has shown that
the drug phenytoin may provide some
benet to recovery. Surgical treatment
to remove a tendon from the hind
leg is an option in horses that do not
respond to other treatment methods.
Flatweed
(catsear, false dandelion)
Hypochaeris radicata (also known as Hypochoeris radicata) [Asteraceae]
Flatweed is native to Europe. It is highly
competitive in pastures and it can become the
dominant species, especially in degraded
pastures and during drought conditions.
Flatweed is an upright perennial that
grows to 80 cm in height. The plant
produces numerous seeds that are easily
distributed by wind, water run-off, or
can be 5 20 cm long. The leaves usually have scaly
hairs on both sides. The leaves are lance shaped,
have wavy or toothed edges and a blunt tip.
The plant produces several owering stems from
the centre of the rosette. The branching stems
bear daisy-like owers at their tips and the owers
can be up to 1.5 cm across. The numerous petals
are bright yellow.
As owering nishes, slender brown-orange seeds
appear and a tuft of white hairs that are around
1 cm long top each seed. The owering stems die
Identication note: Dandelion and the atweeds are very similar. The main distinguishing feature is that the
atweeds have branched solid stems whereas dandelion has unbranched hollow stems. Flatweed is also similar
to hawkbit (Leontodon taraxacoides), with the main difference being that hawkweeds have unbranched solid stems.
Weed of gardens, pastures,
grasslands, and roadsides.
back when owering has nished and the plant
remains in a semi-dormant state as a rosette over
winter. New owering stems are produced the
following spring.
71
Other toxins
Smooth atweed is native to Europe. It is highly
competitive in pastures and it can become the
dominant species, especially in degraded pastures
and during drought conditions.
Smooth atweed is very
similar to atweed. The
distinguishing feature is that
smooth atweed usually
has hairless leaves whereas
atweed usually has hairy
leaves.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with atweed, smooth atweed or dandelion.
If it is not practical to remove these weeds from pastures, observe horses for signs of stringhalt.
This is especially important in the high-risk periods of late summer or early autumn and after a
break in dry weather or drought conditions
Smooth atweed
(smooth catsear)
Hypochaeris glabra (also known as hypochoeris radicata) [Asteraceae]
Dandelion
(pissabed)
Taraxacum ofcinale [Asteraceae]
Dandelion is native to Europe. It is highly
competitive in pastures and can become the
dominant species, especially in degraded pastures
and during drought conditions.
Dandelion is an upright perennial that grows to
40 cm in height. The plant produces numerous
seeds that are easily distributed by wind, water run-
off, or through animal and vehicle movements.
can be 5 40 cm long. The leaves can be hairless
or can have a sparse covering of hairs. The leaves
are lance-shaped, have wavy or toothed edges and
a sharp tip.
The plant produces several owering stems
from the centre of the rosette. The unbranched
hollow stems bear daisy-like owers at their tips
and the owers can be up to 2 cm across. The
numerous petals are bright yellow. As owering
nishes, slender seeds appear and a tuft of white
hairs that are around 6mm long top each seed.
The owering stems die back when owering has
nished and the plant remains in a semi-dormant
state as a rosette over winter. New owering
stems are produced in the following spring.
72
Other toxins
Nightshades
The plants in the Solanum genus are
generally known as the nightshades.
There are around 1500 species of
Solanum found worldwide and over
one hundred of these can be found
growing in Australia. Solanums are
grown as garden ornamentals or for
food (potatoes) and many species are
important agricultural weeds. The
closely-related tomato plant (Lycopersicon
esculentum) contains toxins similar to
those in plants of the Solanum genus.
The toxic effect that ingested solanum
plant material will have on a horse
depends on the species, the stage of
growth of the plant, the part of the
plant eaten and the amount of plant
material consumed. In general the
leaves and green fruits of solanums are
the most toxic parts of the plants.
Solanums contain a variety of toxic
compounds and all species are
reportedly toxic to horses if ingested.
One of the main toxic compounds
found in solanums is solanine. Solanine
is a glycoalkaloid and structurally it
is a glycoside containing a steroid
alkaloid nucleus with a side chain of
sugars. Solanums can contain other
glycoalkaloids, glycosides and alkaloids.
These toxic compounds can have effects
on the gastrointestinal tract and/or
the nervous system, depending on the
combination of toxins in ingested plant
material.
Despite the widespread occurrence of
solanums in Australia and the reported
toxicity, there are very few conrmed
reports of poisoning in horses. Most
solanum plants are unpalatable but
they may be eaten it no other forage is
available. Poisoning could also occur
through the ingestion of contaminated
hay, although many horses will avoid
solanum plants in hay.
Signs of solanum poisoning
Ingestion of solanum toxins that
affect the nervous system may
produce signs such as:
Depression
Drowsiness
Dilated pupils
Salivation
Laboured breathing
Incoordination
Muscle weakness
Involuntary urination
Convulsions
Paralysis
Loss of consciousness
Ingestion of solanum toxins that affect

the gastrointestinal system may produce
signs such as:
Colic
Diarrhoea that can contain blood
Constipation and intestinal stasis
(food is not moved through the
gut) if a large amount of toxin has
been consumed
if solanum poisoning is suspected in
a horse. Mild to moderately affected
horses should make a full recovery
with supportive veterinary care.

Veterinary treatment will depend
on the symptoms displayed in the
affected horse. The treatment options
may include the administration of
activated charcoal, the administration
of uids and electrolytes and the
administration of certain drugs. The
ingestion of large amounts of toxic
solanum plant material can result in
sudden death, or death within 3 - 4
days in the most severe cases.
Solanums
The Solanum genus is large and diverse. The
plants in this group include annual and perennial
herbs, shrubs, small trees and climbing plants.
Most solanums are covered in hairs and some
have prickles. The owers of plants in this group
are usually star-shaped and the plants all produce
berries. Described in this section are some of
the solanums that commonly grow as weeds in
horse paddocks.
Blackberry nightshade
Solanum nigrum [Solanaceae]
Blackberry nightshade is native to Europe.
Blackberry nightshade is an upright, short-lived
perennial shrub that grows to 1 m in height. The
plant produces seeds that can be spread by water
run-off, through animal and vehicle movements
or as contaminants of hay or grain.
The branched stems and the leaves are green and
they are often tinged with purple. The leaves are
oval-shaped with a pointed tip and they are around
Weed of pastures, crops,
gardens, parklands,
73
Other toxins
6 cm long by 2.5 cm wide. The edges of the leaves
can be entire or can sometimes have shallow lobes.
and the leaf stalks are up to 3 cm long.
small star-shaped owers are white and they
appear in groups of 4 12 owers. The plant
produces round berries that are green when
young and black or purple-black when mature.
The berries are up to 8 mm across.
Identication note: Glossy nightshade (Solanum
americanum) is very similar to blackberry nightshade.
The berries of glossy nightshade are shiny and the
berries of blackberry nightshade are dull.
Apple of Sodom
(Dead Sea apple, bitter apple, poison apple, black-spined nightshade)
Solanum linnaeanum (also known as Solanum hermannii or Solanum sodemeum) [Solanaceae]
Apple of Sodom is native to southern Africa and
the Mediterranean region. It is declared a noxious
weed in Victoria, Tasmania and Western Australia.
Apple of Sodom is an upright or spreading
perennial shrub that usually grows to 1 m in
height. The plant produces seeds that are not
usually spread far from the parent plant. Spiny
stem fragments can attach to animals and the
seed can be spread considerable distances
through the movement of these animals.
The branched stems are green or purplish when
young and they turn brown or grey as they
mature. The stems and leaves are covered in
many yellow-coloured prickles that can be up to
1.5 cm long. The young stems and the leaves are
also covered in tiny star-shaped hairs. The leaves
are alternately arranged along the stems and they
have stalks that are up to 2.5 cm long. The oval-
shaped leaves can be up to 15 long by 8 cm wide
and they are deeply lobed.
Silverleaf nightshade
(bitter apple, silver horsenettle)
Solanum elaeagnifolium [Solanaceae]
The plant owers in spring and summer. The star-
shaped owers are usually purple and they appear
in groups of 3 6 owers. The owers are up to
3.5 cm in width. The plant produces round berries
that are green with white mottling when young and
yellow when mature. As the berries dry out they
turn brown-black and they become wrinkled. The
berries can be up to 3.5 cm across.
Silverleaf nightshade differs to other nightshades
in that the ripe berries of the plants are more
toxic than the green berries. The plant is native
to the United States and Mexico. It is declared
a noxious weed in Victoria, New South Wales,
South Australia, Tasmania and Western Australia.
Silverleaf nightshade is an upright perennial that
usually grows 30 60 cm in height. The plant dies
back each year and regrows from the perennial
rootstock. It produces seed that can be spread by
water run-off, animal and vehicle movements and
as contaminants of hay or grain. The plants have
a network of underground roots that can give rise
to new shoots. The plants can spread through the
dispersal of root fragments during cultivation or
other practices that move soil.
The branched stems and the leaves are covered
in many ne star-shaped hairs that give them a
silvery or grey appearance. The stems are also
covered in many yellow or reddish coloured
prickles that can be up to 0.5 cm long. The leaves
are alternately arranged along the stems and they
have stalks that are up to 3.5 cm long. The lance-
shaped leaves can be up to 12 cm long by 3.5 cm
wide and they have wavy or scalloped edges.
The plant owers in late spring and summer. The
star-shaped owers can be purple, mauve, blue or
violet and they appear in groups of 1 4 owers.
The owers are up to 4 cm wide. The plant
produces round berries that are green with darker
coloured striations when young. The berries are
yellow or orange when mature and can be up to
1.5 cm across.
waterways.
and roadsides.
Photos: Ken Harris
Photo: Ken Harris
74
Other toxins
Buffalo burr
(spiny nightshade)
Solanum rostratum [Solanaceae]
Buffalo burr is native to the United States and
Mexico. The plant is declared a noxious weed in
Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia.
Buffalo burr is an upright or spreading annual
that usually grows 20 50 cm tall. The plant
produces seed that can be spread as contaminants
of hay or grain. The seeds are contained in
prickly burrs that can spread when they attach to
animals. Older plants can detach at ground level
and become tumbleweeds.
The branched stems are green when young and
become woody with age. They are covered in
many ne star-shaped hairs that give them a
greyish appearance. The stems are also covered
in yellow prickles that can be up 1.5 cm long.
The leaves are alternately arranged along the
stems and they can be up to 15 cm long by
8 cm wide. The leaves are deeply divided and the
edges are lobed.
The plant owers in spring and summer. The
star-shaped owers are bright yellow and they
appear in groups of 1 10 owers. The plant
produces egg-shaped or rounded berries that are
green when young and black when mature. The
entire fruit is surrounded in a prickly bract that
forms a burr.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pasture infested with solanums.
Check hay for solanum contamination.
Individual plants should be pulled out by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide.
Potatoes
Solanum tuberosum [Solanaceae]
Green potato peelings are the most toxic part
of this plant, particularly the peelings of sun-
greened potatoes. The leaves and other parts of
the plant are also toxic. Potatoes were reportedly
the cause of a fatal poisoning in a horse after it
ingested old potatoes that had been dumped in a
compost heap in a horse paddock.
Management notes
Do not grow potato plants in horse paddocks
or in areas where horses are kept.
Do not compost old potatoes or place plant
clippings in horse paddocks or in areas where
horses are kept.
Do not feed potato peelings to horses.
Tomatoes
Lycopersicon esculentum [Solanaceae]
The leaves of the tomato plant and unripe
tomatoes contain toxins that are potentially
poisonous to horses.
Management notes
Do not grow tomato plants in horse
paddocks or in areas where horses are kept.
Do not compost green tomatoes or place
plant clippings in horse paddocks or in areas
Weed of pastures, crops and

roadsides.
This vegetable patch has been planted close to a horse yard.
The tomato plants are just out of reach of the horses.
75
Other toxins
Chillagoe horse disease
The ingestion of the crotalarias known
as trefoil rattlepod and Chillagoe horse
poison can induce severe ulceration on
the lining of the oesophagus and the
upper part of the stomach in horses.
Horses will readily eat these species
of crotalaria and may selectively graze
the plants even when other forage is
available. Horses are at an increased
risk of developing Chillagoe horse
disease when rain produces a ush of
growth in these plants.
Despite the wide distribution of these
plants, cases have been recorded only
from central coastal and northern
Queensland. It is likely that large
intakes of the plants are required
before poisoning occurs.
The toxins that cause these effects
in horses are presently unknown.
Other species of Crotalaria can cause
pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning if
ingested. (see pages 7, 9-11)
Signs of Chillagoe horse disease
Ulceration of the oesophagus
Frequent licking of lips
Teeth grinding
Drooling
In severe cases the oesophagus
may become partially or
completely blocked and the horse
may be unable to swallow food
or water. Severely affected horses

can die if the oesophagus becomes
completely blocked.
and the affected horse should be
removed from pastures containing
crotalaria if Chillagoe horse disease
is suspected. Veterinary treatment
and supportive care may help with
recovery. In severe cases a veterinarian
can try to pass a stomach tube past
any blockage in the oesophagus to
supply nutrition to the horse while the
oesophageal ulcers heal.
Trefoil rattlepod
Crotalaria medicaginea var. neglecta (formerly known as C. trifoliastrum) [Fabaceae]
Trefoil rattlepod is an upright annual or perennial
that grows to 1 m in height.
The leaves have 3 narrow egg-shaped leaets that
can be up to 3 cm long by 1.5 cm wide. The lower
surfaces of the leaves are densely hairy.
The plant owers throughout the year. Flower
spikes appear at the tips of the branches and
they can be up to 10 cm long. The numerous
pea-shaped owers are yellow and are sometimes
streaked with red. The plant produces small hairy
or hairless pods.
Chillagoe horse poison
Crotalaria aridicola ssp. aridicola [Fabaceae]
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pasture infested with crotalaria.
Found in pastures,
grasslands and waterways.
Found in pastures,
grasslands and waterways.
Chillagoe horse poison is a semi-upright
perennial that grows 50 60 cm in height.
The plant has slender branched stems and a woody
taproot. The leaves have 3 wedge-shaped leaets.
The plant owers in autumn to winter. Flower
racemes appear at the tips of the branches and
the owers grow in crowded clusters. The pea-
shaped owers are yellow. The plant produces
triangular-shaped pods.
Photo: Ross M
c
Kenzie
Photo: Ross M
c
Kenzie
76
Other toxins
Avocado
All parts of avocado trees are
poisonous to horses but the leaves
contain the highest levels of toxins.
The leaves of avocado trees are toxic
even when fallen and dried. The toxin
in avocado trees is called persin but the
mechanism by which it causes toxicity
in animals is not known.
Cases of horse poisoning after
ingestion of material from avocado
trees are uncommon but have been
reported in Australia and overseas.
Signs of avocado poisoning
The signs of avocado poisoning in
horses are variable and may include:
Non-infectious mastitis and
reduced milk production in
lactating mares
Swelling of the lips, mouth, head,
neck and chest
Colic
Diarrhoea
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Shortness of breath and heart
problems in severe cases
Severely affected horses may die
suddenly from heart failure or
respiratory failure

immediately if avocado poisoning is
suspected and treatment will depend
on the symptoms the horse displays.
Most horses fully recover from avocado
poisoning, although milk production
may not return to normal levels in
lactating mares. Horses displaying signs
of heart and lung damage may have
ongoing complications.
Avocado
Persea americana [Lauraceae]
Avocado trees can be tall and upright or low
and spreading, depending on the variety. Tall
growing varieties can grow to 15 m in favourable
conditions. The trees are evergreen but the leaves
are shed and regrow throughout the year, in
cooler regions the tree can be semi-deciduous.
The leathery leaves are dark green and glossy
and are variable in size depending on the variety.
The tree has small greenish-yellow owers that
grow where the leaves join the branch. The plant
produces pear-shaped avocado fruit. Flowering
and fruit development can occur at different
times of the year depending on the variety.
Management
Avocado trees are not suitable for planting in
Do not put clippings from avocado trees in
areas where horses may access them.
Garden ornamental, shade

tree and fruit tree.
77
Other toxins
Senna
The toxic plants in this group that occur
in Australia and may be a risk to horses
are Senna occidentalis and Senna obtusifolia.
Both of these plants are declared
noxious weeds in several states.
Many Australian plants in the Senna
genus were previously in the Cassia
genus and this can cause some
confusion when identifying plants from
these genera. See page 5 for more
information on obtaining a precise
identication of a plant species..
The toxins in plants of the Senna genus
have not been identied. Poisoning
mainly occurs in cattle but poisoning
cases in horses have been reported in
Australia. All parts of the plants are
toxic, especially the seeds. The plants
are unpalatable to horses and are
usually avoided. Poisoning could occur
through contamination of grain with
senna seed or plant material.
Signs of senna poisoning
The toxins contained in senna cause
muscle damage and severe liver
damage in horses. The signs that may
be seen include:
Depression
Muscle tremors
Incoordination and swaying gait
Shortness of breath
Heart irregularities
Death
Senna poisoning in horses is
uncommon but is usually fatal.
immediately if senna poisoning is
suspected. There is no specic

treatment for senna poisoning but
veterinary treatment and supportive
care may increase the chance of
survival and help with subsequent
recovery.
Coffee senna
(Nigerian senna, ant bush, arsenic bush, sickle pod, stinkweed, stinking pea, septicweed)
Senna occidentalis (formerly known as Cassia occidentalis) [Fabaceae]
Coffee senna is native to the tropical and
subtropical regions of the Americas. It is a
declared noxious weed in the Northern Territory
and Western Australia.
Coffee senna is an upright annual or biennial
shrub that grows to 2.5 m in height. The plant
produces seeds that are spread by water run-off,
as contaminants of transported hay and grain or
The branched stems are reddish-purple and
are somewhat square-shaped or grooved when
young. Mature stems are greenish-brown and
are more rounded in shape. The leaves are
alternately arranged along the stem. The leaves
are up to 20 cm long and are compound, having
3 5 pairs of oppositely arranged leaets. Each
leaet is around 3 cm long and is egg-shaped with
a pointed tip. There is a dark gland at the base of
each leaf stalk.
woodlands, crops and
roadsides.
Flowering occurs in summer and autumn. The
5-petalled owers are bright yellow and are about
3 cm across. The owers appear in clusters of
2 - 6 in the forks of the uppermost leaves. The
plant produces cylindrical pods. The pods turn
dark brown as they mature and they have paler
brown stripes at the edges. The pods can be up
to 13 cm in length.
Flowers. Photo: Sheldon Navie
Pods. Photo: Sheldon Navie Young plant. Photo: Sheldon Navie
78
Other toxins
Management notes
Coffee senna and sicklepod should be removed from horse paddocks if they are found growing
as weeds.
Isolated young plants can be pulled out by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide. Ensure all parts
of the plant are removed from the ground.
Slashing infested pasture can keep the plants to a manageable size and will weaken them, allowing
desirable pasture species a chance to recover. Use blunt slasher blades to shatter the stems for
maximum effect.
Establish competitive pastures. Heavily infested areas should be cultivated and sown with
desirable pasture species.

woodlands, crops and
roadsides.
Sicklepod
(Java bean, Chinese senna, coffee weed, foetid cassia, arsenic weed)
Senna obtusifolia (also known as Senna tora and formerly known as Cassia obtusifolia or Cassia tora) [Fabaceae]
Sicklepod is native to the Caribbean region and
tropical America. It is a declared noxious weed in
Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern
Territory.
Sicklepod is an upright annual or biennial shrub
that can grow to 2.5 m but is usually less than
2 m in height. The plant produces seeds that
are spread by water run-off, as contaminants of
vehicle movements.
The branched sprawling stems are covered in soft
hairs. The leaves are alternately arranged along
the stem. The leaves are compound, having 2 3
pairs of oppositely arranged leaets. Each leaet
can be up to 6.5 cm long and the leaets furthest
from the stalk are the largest. The leaets are
egg-shaped and have a rounded tip. The leaets
usually have tiny hairs along their edges.
Flowering occurs from late summer through to
early winter. The 5-petalled owers are bright
yellow and are about 1.5 cm across. The owers
grow on stalks up to 3 cm long and appear in
the forks of the uppermost leaves. The plant
produces rounded, sickle-shaped pods. The pods
turn greenish-brown as they mature and they are
slightly indented between the seeds. The pods
can be up to 18 cm in length.
79
Other toxins
Red clover and alsike clover
The toxins associated with red clover
and alsike clover poisoning are not
presently known. There is some
evidence that the toxic effects may
be caused by a mycotoxin-producing
fungus that is commonly associated
with these clovers.
The horse seems to be the only animal
species susceptible to poisoning by red
clover and alsike clover. The toxins in
these clovers cause liver damage with
secondary photosensitation.
Poisoning of horses by alsike clover
and red clover has been recorded in
Canada, the United States and several
other countries but there are no
conrmed Australian reports in the
literature.
Clovers are usually present in pasture as
part of a mix of legumes and grasses.
Most reports of red clover and alsike
clover poisoning in the literature
have noted that the pasture grazed
by affected horses was dominated by
clover, or that ingested hay contained
large amounts of clover. Researchers
estimate that a diet containing greater
than 50% red clover or alsike clover
can cause liver damage in horses. The
condition can occur at any time of year
but it seems to occur most often after
an unusually long and wet spring.
The effects of the toxins are cumulative
and signs of poisoning can appear
within 2 4 weeks of ingesting red
clover or alsike clover but in some cases
it may be months before signs appear.
The time of onset and the severity of
symptoms depend on the amount of
toxic clovers in the diet of the horse.
Signs of alsike clover and red clover poisoning
The initial sign of poisoning is usually
photosensitisation that is a secondary
effect of liver damage. Horses with
areas of unpigmented skin are most
commonly diagnosed with red clover
or alsike clover poisoning and this
is probably because they are more
susceptible to photosensitisation.
Horses with dark skin may show no
sign of photosensitisation before the
appearance of other signs indicating
liver damage. These horses are at
most risk because the disease is
often at a more advanced stage when
diagnosed. The signs of poisoning
are variable and may include:
Photosensitisation - redness
and swelling of the skin in
unpigmented areas. The nose,

crack and weep uid.
Depression
Aimless wandering
other surface
Incoordination
Loss of appetite
Yawning
Muscle tremors
Mild colic
Blindness
Inability to swallow
In severe cases the horse may
progress to episodes of violent
excitation, then coma and death
There is no specic treatment for red

clover and alsike clover poisoning.
Veterinary attention should be
sought if red clover or alsike clover
poisoning is suspected in a horse. A
comprehensive liver function test
can assist in the diagnosis of horses
showing signs of red clover or alsike
clover poisoning.
Mild cases will usually recover if
the toxic clover is removed from
the diet. Horses displaying signs of
photosensitisation should be kept
out of the sun to help the skin heal.
Veterinary treatment and supportive
care may help with recovery. Horses
showing signs of advanced liver
disease have little chance of survival.
Identication note: Clovers can be very difcult to tell apart. Before implementing any management
strategies in regards to red clover or alsike clover it would be prudent to have the clover species positively
identied. See page 5 for more information on obtaining a precise identication of a plant species.
Red clover
Trifolium pratense [Fabaceae]
Red clover can be upright or the stems may
droop downwards. The stems are up to 50 cm
long and may be hairless or covered in hairs.
The plant has leaves made up of 3 leaets. The
leaets are up to 5 cm long and 1.5 cm wide
and each leaf has a light green or white inverted
crescent-shaped marking in the middle.
The pink or purple ower heads are spherical in
shape and are around 2.7 cm across. The ower
heads are borne on stalks. Each ower head is
made up of around 100 small owers.
Pasture legume. Red clover
is widely cultivated.
80
Other toxins
Alsike clover
Trifolium hybridum [Fabaceae]
Alsike clover can be upright or the stems may
droop downwards. The stems are up to 60 cm
long and may be hairless or covered in hairs.
The plant has leaves made up of 3 leaets. The
leaets are up to 3 cm long and 1.8 cm wide and
they are borne on the end of long stalks. The
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pasture that is dominated by red clover or alsike clover.
Check hay for red clover or alsike clover.
Pasture legume. Aslike

clover is not commonly
cultivated in Australia.
leaets do not have the leaf markings that appear
on the leaets of red clover.
The white or pink ower heads are spherical in
shape and are around 2.5 cm across. The ower
heads are on a stalk that is usually longer than the
stalk of the leaves. Each ower head is made up
of 20 40 small owers.
81
Other toxins
Selenium poisoning
Selenium is an essential dietary nutrient
for horses but excessive amounts of
selenium in the diet can cause toxicity.
The amount of selenium found in a
plant depends on the species and the
soil selenium level where the plant
grows. Soils in some parts of Australia
have particularly high levels of selenium
and some plant species that grow in
these areas can accumulate selenium in
their leaves at potentially toxic levels.
Two native Australian plants are known
to accumulate selenium and have been
associated with selenium poisoning of
horses in Australia.
Horses that graze plants containing
high levels of selenium may develop
chronic selenium poisoning and this
is sometimes known as alkali disease.
The plants are not usually palatable to
horses but may be eaten if other forage
is scarce.
Signs of selenium poisoning
Hair loss from the mane and tail
Horizontal cracks in the hoof
wall
In severe cases the hoof wall may
slough off
Affected horses should be moved

to a paddock that does not contain
selenium-accumulating plants.
Veterinary advice should be sought to
devise a suitable low-selenium diet for
the horse to help with recovery, yet
still provide adequate nutrition. A
gradual recovery should occur as the
affected hooves grow out.
Mapoon bush
Morinda reticulata [Rubiaceae]
Mapoon bush is an Australian native plant.
Mapoon bush is found only on Cape York
Peninsula in northern Queensland.
Mapoon bush is a shrub that can grow to 1 m in
height. The shrub has a straggly appearance and
can grow as a climber in shaded areas.
Selenium weed
Neptunia amplexicaulis [Fabaceae]
Selenium weed is a native Australian plant.
There are 2 forms of selenium weed, one being
hairless and the other being covered in ne, soft
hairs. Both forms of selenium weed are found
only in the Hughenden- Richmond area of north
Queensland.
Selenium weed is an erect or semi-erect perennial
that grows to 80 cm in height.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with mapoon bush or selenium weed.
Mapoon bush and selenium weed should be controlled in horse paddocks, especially if they are
the dominating species. Seek advice from a local agronomist or weed management agency for
advice on the management of these weeds on your property.
Many Australia soils are marginally decient in selenium and dietary supplementation of the element
may be required. Contact a local agronomist or your state Department of Agriculture for advice on
the soil types in your area. Feeding Horses in Australia (Kohnke et al, 1999) contains some very good
information and recommendations concerning selenium in the diet of horses.
The leaves are made up of paired leaets along a

central leaf stem. The leaets are around 2 cm
long and are heart-shaped with a tapering point.
The ower heads are borne on a spike that grows
from the point where the leaf meets the stem.
There are 20 40 small yellow pea-shaped owers
on each ower head. The plant produces pods that
are dark brown when mature. Each pod contains
1 4 seeds.
The pale green leaves are oval-shaped and can
grow to 12 cm in length. The leaves are thick
and have a leathery feel.
The plant has white star-shaped owers that
grow to 1.5 cm across and are surrounded by
white leafy bracts.
82
Other toxins
Privets
Reports of privet poisoning in horses
in Australia are very rare. The trees
are known to be toxic to many species,
although little data exists on which
species may be most at risk. The toxins
in privets are thought to be glycosides
but this has not been conrmed. All
parts of the plant are thought to be
poisonous and the risk of poisoning
may be highest when new growth
occurs in spring.
Signs of privet poisoning
The signs of privet poisoning are
variable and are not well documented
in horses but may include:
Colic
Diarrhoea
Nasal discharge
Incoordination
Possible lung and heart problems

in severe cases sudden death in severe cases sudden death
from heart failure can occur
Immediate veterinary treatment
should be sought if privet poisoning
is suspected in a horse. Treatment
options include the administration of
activated charcoal to prevent further
absorption of toxins from the gut and
uids to maintain hydration. In most
reported cases of privet poisoning
in horses the symptoms were well
advanced and although the cases are
not well documented, this nding may
indicate that the symptoms of privet
poisoning progress rapidly. Very
few animals poisoned by privet have
survived.
Privets
Ligustrum spp [Oleaceae]
Privets are very common in Australia and some
are grown as garden ornamentals, hedges or
shade trees. The broad-leaved privet (L. lucidum)
and Chinese privet (L. sinense) are declared
noxious weeds in several states.
Privets can be trees or shrubs ranging from 3 m
to 10 m in height. All species are evergreen. The
oppositely arranged leaves are mostly dark green
but some species can have variegated leaves and
at least one species has pale green leaves.
Privet owers are white or cream in colour and
many are fragrant. The owers are very small
and grow in dense or open clusters that can be
10 15 cm long. The plant produces clusters
of berries that are usually dark blue, purplish or
black and can grow up to 1cm in diameter.
Management notes
Privets are not suitable for planting in
Weeds of open woodlands,

pastures, grasslands,
Privets are sometimes
cultivated as hedges or
windbreaks.
Once established, the weed species of privet can be very
hard to control.
Small privet seedlings can be removed by hand or spot
sprayed with herbicide.
Larger plants can be cut at the base and the stump
immediately painted with herbicide.
Bulldozing privets followed by the use of herbicides
can control large infestations. Follow-up use of
herbicides is necessary as regrowth will occur from
seeds, stem or root fragments that are left in the
ground. Seek advice from a local agronomist or weed
management agency to select the most appropriate
herbicide and spray program for your property.
Establish desirable species to help prevent
reinfestation of privets.

83
Other toxins
Chewing disease
Prolonged ingestion of the plants St
Barnabys thistle or hardheads can result
in a disease called equine nigropallidal
encephalomalacia (ENE), or chewing
disease. The disease is uncommon but
cases have been reported in Australia
and overseas.
Several potentially toxic substances are
present in these plants but the primary
toxins responsible for poisoning have
not been denitively identied. The
exact mechanism of poisoning is not
completely understood but it may
involve the interference of cell function
by the inhibition of important enzymes
and other functional proteins. This
may lead to the degeneration of nerve
cells in specic parts of the brain,
causing the characteristic symptoms of
ENE.
Symptoms of poisoning in horses can
occur after long periods (1 2 months)
consuming signicant amounts of the
plants. Horses will eat these plants
if there is little alternative fodder
and poisoning could occur if large
amounts of the plants are consumed
as contaminants of hay. It has
been reported that some horses will
preferentially graze the plants, even
when other feed is available.
Signs of chewing disease
A horse suffering chewing disease has
damage to a specic part of the brain
and the effect of this brain damage is
that the horse is unable to move food
or water to the back of its mouth.
Although horses will only develop the
disease after a relatively long period
of exposure to the toxins, the onset
of symptoms is abrupt. A horse may
seem normal one day and the next day
it may seem unable to eat or drink.
The signs that may be seen include:
Apparent inability to eat or drink.
The horse may have trouble
getting food into the mouth
but if successful, the horse may
rhythmically chew and move its

tongue around for prolonged
periods in attempts to move the
food around the mouth. The food
often dribbles out of the mouth.
The horse is able to swallow but is
unable to get food into a position
for swallowing.
Dehydration
Depression
The horse may stand with its
head so low that its nose is almost
touching the ground. A horse
standing in this position for long
periods can develop swelling of the
head.
Frequent yawning and lip curling.

The horse may be able to drink by
putting its head deep into water
and then tipping its head back.
Muscle tremors and
incoordination are seen in some
cases
No treatment options are available
for this disease at present and the
damage to the brain is thought to
be irreversible. Once the symptoms
occur the disease is fatal and the horse
will die of starvation if not humanely
euthanased.
Hardheads
(Russian knapweed, creeping knapweed, blueweed)
Acroptilon repens (also known as Centaurea repens) [Asteraceae]
Hardheads is native to the region around the
Caspian Sea (Russia, Turkey, Afghanistan and
Mongolia). It is a declared noxious weed in all
states except Queensland, Tasmania and the
Australian Capital Territory.
Hardheads is an upright perennial that usually
grows to around 50 cm in height but can grow to
1 m. The plant produces seeds that often remain
in the ower heads and they can be spread to new
areas through water run-off, as contaminants of
transported hay and grain, or through animal and
vehicle movements. The plants have an extensive
network of underground roots that can give rise
to new shoots. The plants can spread through
the dispersal of root fragments during cultivation
or other practices that move soil.
The branched stems are densely covered in
greyish hairs when young. Mature stems have
fewer hairs and are often grooved and ridged.
The young plant is a grey-coloured rosette that
may be hairy. Leaves are lance-shaped and may
have toothed or irregular edges. The leaves are
up to 15 cm long and 5 cm wide. The leaves
produced along the stem are alternately arranged
and are smaller towards the top of the plant.
The plant owers in its second year during late
spring or summer and owers appear singly at
the tips of the branches. The thistle-like owers
are up to 2.5 cm across and are purple, pink or
occasionally white. The owers have numerous
5-lobed tubular orets that are arranged in several
rows contained by broad bracts. The bracts
narrow to a ne papery tip.
Weed in crops, vineyards,
orchards, pastures,
84
Other toxins
Management notes
Check hay for hardheads contamination.
Avoid grazing horses in pastures contaminated with hardheads.
Control of hardheads is difcult because of its underground root system and its tolerance to many
herbicides.
Isolated plants should be pulled out by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide. Ensure all parts of
the plant are removed from the ground.
Larger infestations can be controlled with certain herbicides. Seek advice from a local agronomist
or weed management agency to select the most appropriate herbicide and spray program for your
property.
The most effective control of the weed in pastures is the establishment of competitive species.
St Barnabys thistle
(Yellow star thistle, golden star thistle, yellow cockspur, knapweed)
Centaurea solstitialis [Asteraceae]
St Barnabys thistle is native to southern Europe
and western Asia. It is a declared noxious weed
in New South Wales, Victoria and Western
Australia.
St Barnabys thistle is an upright annual or
biennial that usually grows 30 60 cm tall but
can grow to 90 cm. The plant produces seeds
that can be dispersed by wind, water run-off, as
contaminants of hay or grain and through animal
and vehicle movements.
The branched stems have spiny wings. The stems
have woolly ne hairs that are greyish in colour.
Management notes
Check hay for St Barnabys thistle
contamination.
Avoid grazing horses in pastures contaminated
with St Barnabys thistle.
Individual plants can be pulled out by hand or
spot sprayed with herbicide.
Slash infested pasture to reduce owering and
seed production. Timing is important and the
ideal time to slash the paddock is after desirable
species have set seed but before St Barnabys
thistle has set seed. Seek advice from a local
agronomist or weed management agency to
devise the right slashing program for your
property.
The establishment of competitive pastures can
control St Barnabys thistle.
Graze sheep, goats or cattle on heavily infested paddocks as the toxins in this plant do not affect
these species.
The use of herbicides can be an effective control measure for large infestations. Seek advice from
a local agronomist or weed management agency to select the most appropriate herbicide and
The young plant is a rosette with leaves up to

20 cm in length. The leaves are deeply divided
or lobed, with the lobe at the tip of the leaf
being larger than the others. The rosette leaves
wither as the stem grows. The stem leaves are
alternately arranged and have slightly toothed
edges and pointed tips.
The plant owers in late spring and summer
and the owers appear singly at the tips of the
branches. The ower heads are up to 2.5 cm
long and are egg-shaped. The owers consist of
numerous yellow tubular orets that are up to
2 cm long. The ower heads are surrounded by
several rows of bracts. The middle bracts end in
yellow spines that can be 3 cm long. Other bracts
surrounding the ower head can end in smaller
spines.
Weed of pastures, crops and
roadsides.
Photo: Ross M
c
Kenzie
85
Other toxins
Dune onion weed
The ingestion of dune onion weed
has been associated with poisoning
in Australian horses and in sheep.
The weed has also been implicated
in livestock poisonings in South
Africa. Dune onion weed poisoning
in horses is not common because
the plant is usually unpalatable. The
reported poisoning cases have occurred
in situations where there was little
alternative forage available.
Horses are thought to be particularly
sensitive to the toxins in dune onion
weed, although the toxins have not
yet been identied. Ingestion of
dune onion weed can lead to an
accumulation of fat-soluble pigment in
the nerve tissues and this leads to nerve
dysfunction.
The condition seems to be most
prevalent in summer and in dry periods
when alternative fodder is scarce. The
toxins in dune onion weed may be
cumulative because signs of poisoning
do not occur until animals have grazed
the plant for several weeks.
Signs of dune onion weed poisoning
The signs of poisoning are
progressive and occur in the general
order of the following list.
The horse may have trouble
getting up if it lies down and
it may seem to be partially
paralysed
Muscle tremors
Excessive sweating
Full paralysis
The horse may die from starvation,
dehydration or other complications
associated with paralysis.
There is no documented treatment
for poisoning caused by dune onion
weed and the condition is usually

fatal. Veterinary attention should be
sought if dune onion weed poisoning
is suspected in a horse. Treatment
and supportive care may help with
survival and subsequent recovery.
Dune onion weed
(strapweed, branched onion weed)
Trachyandra divaricata [Asphodelaceae]
Dune onion weed is native to South Africa. It
grows in sandy soils and is most commonly found
in coastal areas. It is particularly common in sand
dunes and it is an important environmental weed
in some areas.
Dune onion weed is an upright tufted perennial
that grows to 70 cm in height. The plant
produces numerous seeds that can be spread by
wind or water run-off. The ower stems can
detach and blow as tumbleweeds to disperse
seeds.
The leaf blades are at, shiny and hairless and
can grow to 70 cm long. The plant owers in
winter to late spring and in summer after rain.
The branched owering stem is up to 70 cm long
and can have up to 60 owers. The petals of the
white owers have a brown centre stripe and gold
colouring at the base.
The plant produces seed capsules that are up to
1 cm long and 0.6 cm across. The smooth seeds
are red-brown to black.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with dune onion weed.
Individual plants can be pulled out by hand or spot sprayed with herbicide. Mature plants will
need to be dug out with a fork as regrowth can occur if the deep-rooted crown is left behind.
Weed of sand dunes,

coastal grasslands and
pastures.
86
Other toxins
Gomphrena weed
Gomphrena weed has been implicated
as the cause of poisoning cases in
horses. Gomphrena weed poisoning
is uncommon as the plants are usually
unpalatable and a large amount must be
eaten before signs of poisoning appear.
The toxin in this plant is unknown and
horses are the only species known to be
affected.
Signs of gomphrena weed poisoning
Depression
Gait abnormalities the horse
may sway and drag its hind feet
when walking.
Difculty turning
Incoordination the horse may
fall and be unable to rise.

Muscle tremors
Convulsions followed by death
In mild cases the horse will recover if
access to gomphrena weed is removed.

if gomphrena weed poisoning is
suspected in a horse. Treatment and
supportive care may help with survival
and subsequent recovery.
Gomphrena weed
(soft khaki weed)
Gomphrena celosioides [Amaranthaceae]
Gomphrena weed is native to the United States.
Gomphrena weed is a prostrate (creeping) annual
or perennial that grows to 25 cm in height. The
stems are usually covered in ne woolly hairs but
they are sometimes hairless.
The oblong-shaped leaves are opposite each other
and they are dull green or grey-green in colour.
The leaves can have a spoon-shaped appearance
and they are up to 5 cm long by 1.5 cm wide.
Flowering occurs in spring and autumn. The
plant produces a rounded ower head that
elongates with maturity and can be up to 4 cm
long. The ower head appears at the end of
the stems and it consists of a large number of
crowded, small white owers. The owers are
enclosed in shiny white papery bracts.
Identication note: Gomphrena weed is often
confused with khaki weed (Alternanthera pungens).
The distinguishing feature is that gomphrena
weed produces papery owers at the ends of the
stems and khaki weed produces
spiny owers in the forks of the leaves. See
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with gomphrena weed.
Weed of pastures and

roadsides.
87
Other toxins
Small owered mallow
Small owered mallow has been
implicated as the cause of poisoning
cases in horses, sheep and cattle. The
incidence is rare as the plants are
usually unpalatable. There are no
conrmed reports of small owered
mallow poisoning of horses in Australia
but it should be considered a risk
because it is a common weed of horse
pastures.
The toxin in this plant is unknown.
Young animals seem to be most at risk.
Signs of small owered mallow poisoning
Profuse sweating
Rapid breathing
Muscle tremors
Symptoms worsen when the animal

is forced to move or is otherwise
stressed
Most animals recover when rested and
when access to small owered mallow
is restricted. Veterinary attention

should be sought if small owered
mallow poisoning is suspected in a
horse. Treatment and supportive care
may help with recovery.
Small owered mallow
(marshmallow)
Malva parviora [Malvaceae]
Small owered mallow is native to the
Mediterranean region and it is commonly found
as a weed in pastures.
Small owered mallow is an upright or sprawling
annual that grows to 50 cm in height.
and they may be covered in sparse hairs. The
rounded leaves are lobed and they are
8 10 cm in diameter. The leaf stalk is inserted
into a notch in the leaf and the leaf has
5 7 veins radiating from this point.
The plant owers in spring. The owers can be
mauve, pink or white and they are clustered in
the leaf forks. The owers have 5 petals and they
are surrounded by a cup-shaped structure. This
structure enlarges at the end of owering and
forms a disk-shaped fruit that consists of up to
12 fused segments (see photo).
Management notes
with small owered mallow.
or spot sprayed with herbicide.
your property.

and roadsides.
88
Other toxins
Red maple
Red maple is a native of North
America. It is grown in some parts of
Australia as a street tree, summer shade
tree or as a garden ornamental. The
tree is known for its striking autumn
colour display.
The bark and the dried or wilted leaves
of red maple are known to be toxic to
horses. Fresh green leaves are not toxic
to horses. There have been a number
of cases of horse deaths caused by
the ingestion of red maple leaves in
North America, where the tree is very
commonly grown. There have been
no conrmed cases of red maple
poisoning in Australian horses.
The dried or wilted leaves of the red
maple tree contain an unknown toxin
that causes the formation of oxygen-
free radicals that damage the membrane
of red blood cells and cause the cells to
release haemoglobin. The haemoglobin
binds to the inside of the red blood
cells to form what are called Heinz
bodies. The damaged red blood cells
are removed from circulation, leading
to acute anaemia. Life-threatening
anaemia caused by the ingestion of
wilted or dried red maple leaves can
occur in as little as 1 5 days after the
ingestion of relatively small amounts of
leaf material.
Poisoning cases reported in North
America were most common in autumn
when red maple leaves are wilted and
have fallen to the ground. Poisoning
cases have also been reported after storms
because the leaves of fallen branches wilt
and are accessible to horses.
Signs of red maple poisoning
Feed refusal
Weakness and depression.
Increased respiratory rate and
heart rate
Blue or purplish tinge to the skin
due to decient oxygen in the
blood
membranes)
Red-brown urine
Abortion in pregnant mares.
Coma and death
Veterinary attention should be

immediately sought if red maple
poisoning is suspected in a horse.
Treatment may involve blood
transfusions, the administration of
uids and large doses of vitamin C.
Horses with advanced signs of red
maple poisoning have little chance of
survival.
Red maple
Acer rubrum [Aceraceae]
Red maple is a deciduous small to medium tree
that can grow up to 20 m. The young branches
are glossy, red and hairless. The bark of young
trees is smooth and light grey and as the tree
matures the bark becomes darker and it breaks up
in long sections.
The leaves are arranged on opposite sides of the
stem and each leaf if made up of 3 5 lobes.
The leaves have serrated edges and they are light
green on the upper surface with a whitish lower
surface. The leaves turn bright shades of red
during autumn before they fall to the ground.
The owers are bright red. The plant produces
clusters of fruit that are reddish in colour.
Management notes
Red maple is not suitable for planting in
Shade trees, garden

ornamentals and street trees.
Photos: Mary Alice Mitchell
89
Other toxins
Birdsville horse disease
Plants of the genus Indigofera contain an
unkown toxin or toxins. The ingestion
of these plants can cause poisoning in
horses and such cases are said to be
suffering Birdsville horse disease.
It is currently thought that the toxicity
of Indigoferas is due to nitrotoxins that
may occur in the plants, however this
association has not been established.
The ingestion of the toxins responsible
for Birdsville horse disease cause
neurological problems in horses,
although the exact mechanism for
neurological damage is unknown.
Cases of horse poisoning caused by the
ingestion of the native Australian plant
Indigofera linnaei have been reported in
Australia and overseas.
The rst Australian case of horse
poisoning associated with another
native indigofera, Indigofera spicata,
occurred in Brisbane in 2004. This
species has caused poisoning in horses
in other countries.
Signs of Birdsville horse disease
Sign of poisoning appear after around
10 days of grazing the plant. The
signs include:
Depression
Loss of appetite
Progressive incoordination
Splayed stance
Dragging of hind feet
Head and tail elevation
The horse may lose control of its
hindquarters and fall when stressed

or when cantering
In severe cases the horse may lie
down and death may follow
Veterinary attention should be sought if
Birdsville horse disease is suspected in
a horse. An affected animal should be
kept calm and should be contained in a
safe area to avoid injury brought about
by its incoordination. Horses showing
severe signs of incoordination have

little chance of survival.
The administration of gelatine may be
an effective treatment in some cases.
Supplementation with lucerne hay,
peanut meal or linseed meal may be
useful in the treatment of mild cases
of poisoning or for the prevention of
poisoning in areas where indigoferas
grow.
Birdsville indigo
Indigofera linnaei [Fabaceae]
Birdsville indigo is a spreading or prostrate
(creeping) plant that grows to 50 cm in height.
The plant can be an annual, biennial or a short-
lived perennial. The stems are thin, branched and
woody and they fan out from a long taproot.
The leaves are up to 3 cm long and they have
7 9 egg-shaped leaets that are each up to 1.5
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pasture infested with Birdsville indigo or creeping indigo.
Graze non-pregnant sheep or goats in heavily infested areas as these species are relatively tolerant
to the toxins in indigoferas. Do not leave these animals on the infested pasture continuously as
toxicity problems can occur.
The use of herbicides can be an effective control measure for larger infestations of toxic
indigoferas. Seek advice from a local agronomist or weed management agency to select the most
cm long. The leaets are slightly indented at the

ends. The leaves and stems are covered in ne
hairs giving the plant a silky appearance.
The plant owers throughout the year, usually
after rain. The small red pea-shaped owers are
crowded on short spikes in the leaf forks. The
ower spikes are around 1 cm long. The plant
produces an oblong pod that is up to 7 mm long
and is pointed at the end.
Creeping indigo
Indigofera spicata [Fabaceae]
Creeping indigo is a prostrate plant that grows
to 1 m. The pale green branched stems are thin
and they fan out from a long taproot. The leaves
are pale green and they have 7 9 egg-shaped
leaets.
Flowering occurs mostly in spring. The owers
are pink or red and they are produced on short
spikes in the leaf forks. The plant produces small
seedpods that are pointed at the end.
Common in native
bushland, grasslands and
along waterways. Often
found in pastures.
Grows in native bushland,
grasslands and along
waterways. Can be found
in pastures.
Indigofera spicata.
90
Irritants
Irritants
Stinging nettles
The hairs of stinging nettles can cause
intense irritation on contact. The hairs
contain toxins that are a mixture of
histamines and amines.
All stinging nettles have the potential to
act as irritants.
Horses will normally avoid stinging
nettles but the risk of exposure is
high in paddocks containing large
infestations of the weed.
Signs of stinging nettle poisoning
Skin irritation and discomfort
Hives may be seen around the
muzzle if the plant is accidentally
contacted while grazing. Hives
can appear on any body part if
the horse has rolled in a patch of

stinging nettles
In severe cases the horse may show
signs of incoordination and muscle
weakness
Symptoms of exposure to stinging

nettles usually resolve within a few
hours. In horses showing severe
symptoms veterinary attention should
be sought. The administration of
sedatives and analgesics will reduce
discomfort.
Stinging nettles
Urtica spp [Urticaceae]
There are around fty species of stinging nettle
found worldwide and three of these species
grow in Australia. A native species, scrub nettle
(Urtica incisa) and an introduced species, small
nettle (Urtica urens) are commonly found in
Australian pastures. Giant nettle (Urtica dioica) is
an introduced species that is found in pastures
but it is not as common as the other two stinging
nettle species.
Stinging nettles are annual or perennial plants and
they range in height from 60 cm to 1.5 m in height.
The leaves and stems of the plants are covered
in stiff stinging hairs. The leaves are oppositely
arranged along the stems and the edges of the
leaves are toothed. The leaves usually have
3 5 prominent veins at their base and they are
attached to the stem by stalks.
The owers are pale green or white and they
appear in branched clusters that sometimes droop
from the stem. The owers of most species are
around 1 mm in width. Flowering usually occurs
in spring.
Management notes
Avoid grazing horses on pastures infested with stinging nettles.
Individual plants can be removed by hand (be sure to wear gloves!) or they can be spot sprayed
with herbicide.
Mowing or slashing paddocks infested with stinging nettles is not recommended as these practices
will spread the seed and promote the emergence of new plants.
Weeds of pastures, crops

and roadsides.
91
Irritants
Gympie stinger
The stalks and leaves of the Gympie
stinger are covered in tiny stinging hairs
that contain a toxin called moiridin. If
the stinging hairs penetrate the skin,
the toxin causes intense pain that can
last for days. Poisoning by Gympie
stinger is rare but it has been reported
to occur in horses, dogs and humans in
Australia.
Signs of gympie stinger poisoning
Initial tingling sensation
developing into intense pain
Horses have been reportedly
driven to frenzy and self-
destruction by the pain
Reports of horses having been affected

by Gympie stinger are rare. There are
no known options for treatment and
reports in the literature suggest that
affected horses have not survived the
self-destructive behaviour brought on
by the pain of the toxin in this plant.
Gympie stinger
(Mulberry-leaved stinger)
Dendrocnide moroides [Urticaceae]
Gympie stinger is a native shrub. It is a
foundation species and can consequently be
found growing at the edges of rainforests and in
clearings.
Gympie stinger grows to 4 m in height.
The leaves are broadly egg-shaped or heart-
shaped with a tapering tip. The leaves can be
10 25 cm in length and 8 20 cm wide at
the base. The edges of the leaves are toothed.
Stinging hairs densely cover the upper surface of
the leaves and are sparse on the lower surface.
The leaf stem is
10 20 cm long.
The plant owers
in summer and the
owers are small and
yellowish-green. The
plant produces a
cluster of small wart-
like nuts that are
borne on a stalk.
Management
notes
Poisoning of horses
by Gympie stinger is
an unusual event and
would only occur if
the horse contacts the
leaves of the shrub.
Care should be taken when riding horses through rainforests or along the fringes of rainforests.
Horse paddocks bordering rainforests may pose a minimal risk and should be checked for the
presence of the shrub.
Found in coastal and

subcoastal rainforests.
Photos: Calder Chaffey
92
Mycotoxins
Plant associated mycotoxins
Mycotoxins are poisons produced by
fungi. Some mycotoxin-producing
fungi occur on growing plants or on
stored feed and the ingestion of these
plants or feed can cause poisoning.
Mycotoxins can grow on the outside of
the plant material (saprophytes) or they
can grow inside plant structures such as
the seed or the stem (endophytes).
Horses can be exposed to mycotoxins
in several different ways. Some pasture
grasses contain mycotoxin-producing
fungi and animals may ingest these
toxins while grazing. Mycotoxins can
accumulate in some cereal grains during
growth and are then ingested by horses
in concentrate feeds. The storage of
feed in conditions favourable for the
growth of fungi is another source of
mycotoxins in the diet of horses.
Mycotoxin poisoning from various
sources has been reported in Australia.
It is not common for a number of
reasons. Mycotoxins only accumulate
in pasture grasses under certain
conditions and most pastures are safe
most of the time. Horse owners are
aware that feed should be stored in dry
conditions and accidentally spoiled
feed is usually discarded. Horses are
relatively sensitive to off odours
and will usually reject mouldy feed.
Healthy horses can usually overcome
the potential effects of ingesting feed
containing low levels of mycotoxins
and problems may only occur when
these low levels of mycotoxins are
ingested over a long period.
Perennial ryegrass staggers
Perennial ryegrass staggers is a
condition that is sometimes seen in
animals grazing pasture containing
perennial ryegrass. The condition
can also occur after the ingestion of
ryegrass hay that has been infected with
mycotoxin-producing fungi.
Perennial ryegrass staggers is mainly
a problem of sheep and cattle but it
is also known to affect horses. It is a
signicant problem for horses in New
Zealand and there have been reports
over the past few years of cases in
Australian horses.
Infection of perennial ryegrass by the
toxin-producing endophyte fungus
Neotyphodium lolii (formerly known
as Acremonium lolii) causes perennial
ryegrass staggers. The fungus produces
several toxins but the main toxin
implicated in ryegrass staggers is a
neurotoxin called lolitrem B.
Perennial ryegrass is an important
pasture grass in temperate areas of
Australia and it is the dominant pasture
species in many areas.
Recent research has shown that almost
all perennial ryegrass that grows in
Australia contains mycotoxin-producing
endophyte fungi. The endophyte is
benecial to perennial ryegrass because
it increases seedling vigour and the
production of seed without the
endophyte, perennial ryegrass would be
of little benet as a pasture grass.
Signs of perennial ryegrass staggers
The horse may appear normal
while grazing but will startle to
sudden stimuli.
If handled or otherwise disturbed
the horse may tremble and appear
uncoordinated.
If the horse is asked to move
the legs may splay and hind limb
exion is exaggerated.
The horse may collapse and then

get back to its feet after a few
minutes.
Perennial ryegrass staggers usually
resolves once access to ryegrass pasture
has been removed. The risk to horses
is injury caused by uncoordinated
movements or a panicked response to
stimuli. The horse should be kept
in a quiet, secure area to prevent
excitement and possible injury.
if perennial ryegrass staggers is
suspected in a horse. In severe cases
the horse may receive uids and other
medications.
Perennial ryegrass
Lolium perenne [Poaceae]
Identication note: Distinguishing between different grasses can be extremely difcult and only a very basic
description is given here. See page 5 for more information on obtaining a precise identication of a plant species.
Perennial ryegrass is a densely tufted annual or
short-lived perennial grass that grows to 80 cm in
height. The grass generally lies at but is upright
during vigorous growth periods.
The leaves of perennial ryegrass are hairless and
the leaf sheaf is often pinkish or red in colour.
Pasture grass.
The leaves are ribbed on the upper surface and
shiny underneath. The newly emerging leaves are
folded.
The plant produces a ower spike that can be 10
25 cm long. Short ower spikelets are arranged
along the sides of the centre spike.
93
Mycotoxins
Management notes
Perennial ryegrass is an important pasture species and the risk of a horse being affected by
perennial ryegrass staggers in Australia is low, however good grazing practices will further reduce
the risk.
Do not allow animals to graze perennial ryegrass-dominant pastures close to the ground where
mycotoxin levels are highest.
Slash the paddock if perennial ryegrass is the dominant species and it goes to seed.
Use a mix of grass species so that perennial ryegrass is not the dominant grass.
New varieties of perennial ryegrass are available which contain no-endophyte or low-mycotoxin-
producing endophyte. However, if the pasture already contains perennial ryegrass it is not
practical to over-sow with newer varieties because they will quickly be contaminated with the
mycotoxin-producing endophyte.
Watch for symptoms during the high-risk period of summer to autumn. This is especially
important if pasture has been grazed low, or if summer rains have produced a ush of perennial
ryegrass.
Paspalum staggers
Paspalum staggers is a condition that
is sometimes seen in animals grazing
pasture containing paspalums. The
condition is most commonly reported
in cattle but there have been occasional
reports of horses suffering paspalum
staggers in Australia and in a number
of other countries.
Growth of fungi from the genus
Claviceps on grass ower heads produces
a substance known as honeydew.
Honeydew is a sweet liquid that
contains spores of the fungus. The
honeydew is spread between grass
owers by insects. Once the fungi
have spread to new plants, the spores
grow in the ower head and form an
endophyte structure that is called an
ergot. The ergot falls off the plant
and remains in the soil over winter. In
the following spring the ergot forcibly
ejects spores to infect developing grass
ower heads and the cycle starts over.
Claviceps ergots can occur in a variety
of pasture grasses and grain crops
including ryegrasses, cereal rye, phalaris
and paspalum. Animals suffering the
toxic effects of ingesting ergots are said
to be suffering ergotism. In Australia,
the main risk of a horse developing
ergotism is through the ingestion of
paspalum that has been infected with
the fungi Claviceps paspali. Such horses
are said to be suffering paspalum
staggers.
Ergots produce several toxins but the
main toxins implicated in paspalum
staggers are neurotoxins called
paspalitrems A and B.
Signs of paspalum staggers
Paspalum staggers produces signs that
are identical to the signs of perennial
ryegrass staggers.
The horse may appear normal
while grazing but will startle to
sudden stimuli
If handled or otherwise disturbed
the horse may tremble and appear
uncoordinated
If the horse is asked to move

the legs may splay and hind limb
exion is exaggerated
The horse may collapse and then
get back to its feet after a few
minutes
Paspalum staggers usually resolves once
access to paspalum pasture has been
removed. The risk to horses is injury
caused by uncoordinated movements

or a panicked response to stimuli.
The horse should be kept in a quiet,
secure area to prevent excitement and
possible injury. Veterinary attention
should be sought if paspalum
staggers is suspected in a horse. In
severe cases the horse may receive
uids and other medications.
Paspalum
Paspalum spp [Poaceae]
Around twenty one species of paspalum grow in
Australia.
Paspalums are tufted perennials that grow 50 cm
to 1.5 m in height but are usually around 1 m.
Paspalums produce underground stems that can
produce new growth of the grasses.
The leaf blades of paspalum are usually hairless
and the newly emerging leaves are usually rolled.
The inner junction of the leaf sheath and leaf
blade is thin and translucent and it may have a
few hairs.
94
Mycotoxins
The plant produces one or more ower spikes
that arise from the same stem. The ower
spikelets are arranged along one side of the
ower spikes either singly or in pairs. The seed
of paspalums are slightly sticky to touch and
they can attach to clothing or animals.
Management notes
Paspalum is a widespread and useful summer-
growing pasture species. The risk of a horse
being affected by paspalum staggers in Australia
is low, however good grazing practices will
further reduce the risk.
Do not allow animals to graze paspalum-
dominant pastures close to the ground where
mycotoxin levels are highest.
Slash the paddock if paspalum is the
dominant species and it goes to seed.
Use a mix of grass species so that paspalum
is not the dominant grass.
Watch for symptoms during the high-risk
period over summer and autumn. This
is especially important if pasture has
been grazed low, or if summer rains have
produced a ush of paspalum.
Endophytes and pregnant mares

There is evidence to suggest that mares
are sensitive to low concentrations of
the alkaloids produced by endophyte
fungi that grow on grasses and cereal
grains. The ingestion of low levels
of these toxins may adversely affect
pregnant mares and their young foals.
This syndrome has been reported in
mares fed oats contaminated with
Claviceps infected ryegrass seeds and in
mares grazing Neotyphodium infected tall
fescue. These endophyte fungi grow
on many other pasture grasses and
cereal grains, (see perennial ryegrass
staggers and paspalum staggers for
more information on these fungi, pages
92-93). The toxic effects to mares of
low levels of endophyte alkaloids may
be the same for all grasses or cereal
grains that have been infected with
endophyte fungi. Case reports are
uncommon, particularly in Australia.
The extent of this problem has not
been fully investigated and precisely
which fungi and their associated grasses
and cereal grains are capable of causing
this problem in pregnant mares is
unclear.
Signs of endophyte alkaloid poisoning in pregnant mares
Extended gestation period
Dystocia (difculty birthing)
Lack of milk production
Premature separation of the
placenta and other placental

irregularities
Weak or dead foals that may have
suffered trauma or asphyxiation
due to a difcult birth, or may be

weakened because of placental
insufciency.
Management notes
Late gestation mares should not be grazed on endophyte-infected pastures or fed endophyte-infected
grains or hay.
Paspalum seed heads

Claviceps ergots on paspalum seed heads
Photo: Peter Windsor
Pasture grass.
95
Mycotoxins
Aatoxins
Aatoxins are mycotoxins produced by
several strains of the fungus Aspergillus.
Animals affected by the ingestion
of aatoxins are said to be suffering
aatoxicosis. Horses are susceptible to
the condition but reports of cases in
Australia are not common.
The condition in horses is not as well
documented as for other livestock
species. Aatoxins primarily affect
the liver and aatoxicosis can be acute
or chronic, depending on how much
aatoxin has been ingested. Chronic
aatoxicosis is more common than the
acute form of the condition.
Aatoxin-producing Aspergillus can
infect high-energy grain crops during
growth. Some of these grains that are
commonly used in horse feed rations
include corn, wheat, oats and barley.
Some feed protein-meal additives can
accumulate aatoxins during growth
and these include cottonseed, copra
(a by-product of coconut processing)
and sunower seeds.
Aatoxins can accumulate in stored
feeds and in feed additives when
conditions are favourable for the
growth of Aspergillus. Moisture, high
humidity and warm temperatures
promote the growth of the fungus.
Damaged or cracked grains are most
at risk because the fungus can not
penetrate intact grain.
Signs of aotoxicosis
Acute poisoning if high levels of
aatoxins have been consumed the
expected signs in horses may include:
Feed refusal
Depression
Difculty breathing and increased
heart rate.
Abdominal straining may be
seen and the horse may develop
diarrhoea with the presence of
blood
In severe cases the horse may die

from extensive liver damage
Acute aatoxicosis in horses is very
rare and there is no specic treatment
for the condition. Veterinary attention
should be sought and unless liver
damage is severe, most horses will
recover with supportive care.
Chronic poisoning if low levels
of toxin are consumed over several
days or weeks the expected signs may
include:
Soft stools
Weight loss
In cases of chronic aatoxicosis
the condition of the horse usually
improves when the contaminated
food has been removed from the diet.
Management notes
Feed should always be stored in dry, cool conditions.
Always buy feed from reputable sources to ensure that it has been stored
properly and that quality grain has been used in concentrate feeds.
Feed that has been wet and uneaten portions of wetted-feed should be
discarded.
Protein meals such as copra meal should be dry and free owing.
Copra meal that has been stored correctly.

96
Mycotoxins
Signs of equine leukoencephalomalacia
membranes)
Neurological disorders
- incoordination, apparent
blindness, depression and aimless
circling
The horse may easily startle.

other surface
Difculty breathing
The horse may die from liver
failure, heart failure or from the
destruction of brain matter
There is no current treatment available

apart from supportive veterinary care
and ensuring that toxic feedstuffs are
immediately removed from the diet
of the horse. Early diagnosis and
treatment will increase the chance of
survival for the horse.
Management notes
Feed should always be stored in dry, cool conditions.
Always buy feed from reputable suppliers to ensure good quality corn and oats has been used in
feed mixes. This also applies to pelleted feed that has corn or oats as a component.
Lupinosis
Lupinosis is caused by the ingestion
of lupins that have been infected
with the fungus Diaporthe toxica. The
fungus produces toxic chemicals called
phomopsins.
Lupinosis is a disease that primarily
affects sheep. Horses are also
susceptible to the toxic effects of
phomopsins and although case
reports are rare, the disease is usually
fatal in horses. Lupinosis should not
be confused with lupin poisoning
associated with quinolizidine alkaloids
in lupin plants (see page 26).
Lupins are grown extensively in
Western Australia and there has been an
increase in lupin cropping in Victoria
over the past several years. Poisoning
can occur when animals graze fungi-
infected lupin stubble, or are fed lupin
hay contaminated with fungi.
The highest risk period for lupinosis
is summer to autumn. Warm, moist
conditions favour growth of the fungus
Diaporthe toxica. Stubble remains toxic
for several months once it has been
infected with the fungus. New varieties
of lupin that are resistant to fungal
infection have greatly reduced the risk
of this disease in Australia.
Horses are not often grazed on lupin
stubble or fed lupin hay, however in
times of drought lupin is sometimes
used as an alternate feedstuff.
Signs of lupinosis
There is little information on the
mechanism of phomopsin poisoning
in horses or the signs that may be
Management notes
Ensure that horses do not have access to lupin stubble or lupin hay that is not a fungal-resistant
variety.
Lupin stubble is safer immediately after harvest than later in the season.
seen in horses affected by the ingestion

of the toxin. Phomopsins affect the
liver, kidneys and pancreas. The toxin
is particularly poisonous to horses
and death can occur suddenly.
Equine leukoencephalomalacia
Equine leukoencephalomalacia is an
uncommon condition caused by the
consumption of corn or other grains
that have been infected with the fungus
Fusarium verticillioides (formerly Fusarium
moniliforme). The fungus produces toxic
chemicals called fumonisins and horses
are thought to be particularly sensitive
to these toxins.
Fumonisins are formed when grains
are infected with Fusarium verticilloides
in the eld. At particular risk are
damaged crops or crops that have been
harvested soon after rain. Corn is the
most commonly affected grain but oats
have also been associated with cases of
equine leukoencephalomalacia.
Equine leukoencephalomalacia has
occasionally been reported overseas
and there have been a small number
of reports in Australia, most notably
an outbreak in 1995 that resulted in
the death of three horses. In that
particular case, all three horses suffered
neurological problems. One was found
dead in the paddock and two were
destroyed after showing a progression
of symptoms. Laboratory tests
conrmed the presence of Fusarium
verticilloides in the corn component of
the horses grain ration.
There is limited information available
on the mechanism of fumonisin
poisoning or the signs that may be seen
in horses affected by the ingestion of
the toxin. Recent research work has
shown that fumonisins can cause heart
dysfunction in the horse as well as liver
dysfunction.
97
Bacteria
Plant associated bacterial toxins
Corynetoxins
Corynetoxins are toxins produced by
the bacteria Rathayibacter toxicus. This
bacterium normally lives in the soil but
it can sometimes infect the seed heads
of certain grasses. The bacterium gains
entry to the seed head by adhering to a
parasitic nematode that infects the seed
head. The nematode, Anguina funesta,
forms a gall that takes the place of the
developing grass seed. The bacterium
multiplies inside the nematode gall and
a toxic bacterial gall is formed. Seed
heads may look normal or they may be
somewhat twisted and deformed and
some may exude a yellow slime.
Grasses containing corynetoxins are
poisonous to all livestock species.
Animals are at risk if they ingest the
infected grasses, the stubble after hay
has been cut, or the hay of infected
grasses. Hay cut from infected grasses
can remain toxic for years. The grasses
that have been known to accumulate
corynetoxins in Australia are annual
ryegrass, blown grass and annual
beardgrass.
On ingestion of infected grass or hay,
the corynetoxins are absorbed into the
bloodstream and are transported to
tissues where they accumulate. The
toxins cause damage to small blood
vessels in the brain and this can lead to
a disruption in the supply of oxygen
to parts of the brain, resulting in
brain damage. The corynetoxins also
inhibit an important enzyme leading
to the disruption of several metabolic
processes.
Most cases of poisoning occur in
late spring to early summer. This
corresponds to the end of owering
and the period that toxins are highest
in grasses infected with Rathayibacter
toxicus. Cases can occur at other times
of the year when animals graze infected
stubble or ingest infected hay or grain.
Cases of corynetoxin poisoning in
Australian horses are not common.
One report describes poisoning in
several horses from three farms in
Western Australia. The horses had
eaten meadow hay containing annual
ryegrass infected with Rathyayibacter
toxicus. Many of the affected horses
died. Corynetoxin poisoning of
horses has also been reported in South
Australia and in northern New South
Wales.
Signs of corynetoxin poisoning
The signs of poisoning occur abruptly
and include:
Muscle tremors and shivering.
Incoordination, stumbling, stiff-
legged gait
Wide stance
Convulsions and death
Affected animals should be moved to
a quiet area and should be supplied
with water and good quality food.

immediately if corynetoxin poisoning
is suspected in horses. Horses that
survive corynetoxin poisoning can
take up to a month to make a full
recovery.
Annual ryegrass
Lolium rigidum [Poaceae]
Animals affected by corynetoxins in annual ryegrass
are said to be suffering annual ryegrass toxicosis.
Annual ryegrass is native to the Mediterranean
region. It is highly valued as a pasture grass as
it provides good early season grazing. On the
downside is the potential for annual ryegrass
toxicosis that can occur after the grass has
owered and set seed.
Annual ryegrass is an upright annual that
can grow to almost 1 m in height. The grass
produces large numbers of seeds and a large seed
bank can accumulate in areas where the grass
grows. Seeds are small and light and can be easily
distributed by wind or water run-off.
The stems of annual ryegrass are hairless and
are reddish-purple towards the base, particularly
on young plants. The leaf blades are shiny and
hairless. The owering stems are at and grow to
30 cm in length.
Pasture grass. It can be an
important weed in cereal
crops in some areas.
98
Bacteria
Blown grass
Lachnagrostis liformis (formerly Agrostis avenacea) [Poaceae]
Blown grass is an Australian native grass.
Blown grass is an upright or semi-upright annual
or perennial grass that grows to 70 cm in height.
The lower parts of the leaves are sheathed
around the stem. The leaf blades have shallow
grooves along their length.
The ower spike can be up to 30 cm long and
the ower spikelets are spreading when mature.
Once the seed drops the ower spike usually
breaks off.
Annual beardgrass
Polypogon monspeliensis [Poaceae]
Annual beardgrass is native to the Mediterranean
region. It is often found in pastures but it is not
valued as a forage species and is considered a
weed in some areas.
Annual beardgrass is a loosely tufted annual that
grows to 80 cm in height. The lower part of the
leaves is sheathed around the stem. The leaf
blades are at and have a prominent midvein.
The ower spike is up to 11 cm long. It is soft,
compact and bristly.
Management notes
Avoid introducing the nematode and the bacteria that cause corynetoxin poisoning onto farms
that are free of the problem. Do not feed hay or grain in paddocks if the feed has come from
areas where the organisms causing corynetoxin poisoning are known to occur. Only use certied
seed when improving paddocks.
Graze permanent pasture through late winter and spring to remove the early ower heads of
annual ryegrass, blown grass and annual beardgrass. This prevents the grasses from setting seed
and thus prevents nematode infestation and subsequent bacterial infection of the nematode galls.
Annual ryegrass hay should be cut between the time that the grass starts to ower and the end
of owering. Seed heads are most toxic when seed is set and this occurs just after owering has
ended.
Hay with a high percentage of annual ryegrass seed heads should not be fed to horses.
An integrated weed management approach is necessary to control annual ryegrass, blown grass or
beard grass growing as weeds in pastures.
A management plan that includes grazing, cultivation and herbicide use should be devised to
control these grasses on farms where corynetoxin poisoning may be an issue. Seek advice from
a local agronomist or weed management agency to select the most appropriate management
Often found in pastures but it

is not usually valued as a forage
species and is considered a
weed in some areas.
Mainly grows in moist areas
and is commonly found
growing along waterways.
The grass can also be a weed
in pastures.
99
Ornamentals
Ornamental plants
Many ornamental plants contain toxins
that could cause poisoning in horses.
It is important to select non-toxic
species when planting out hedges or
windbreaks alongside paddocks, when
planting trees to improve the look
of horse properties and to provide
shade, or when landscaping stable
and arena areas. Toxic ornamental
plants can spread seed or suckers
and can sometimes encroach upon
areas where horses are kept and this
is especially so in urban and semi-
rural areas. An awareness of toxic
ornamentals will reduce the chance of
accidental exposure and the potential
for poisoning in horses.
Lily of the valley
Convallaria majalis [Liliaceae]
Oleander
Nerium oleander [Apocynaceae]
Yellow oleander
Thevetia peruviana [Apocynaceae]
Mother of millions
Bryophyllum spp [Crassulaceae]
Cotton bushes
Gomphocarpus spp and Asclepias spp
[Apocynaceae]
Foxglove
Digitalis purpurea [Scrophulariaceae
Star of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum spp [Hyacinthaceae]
Blue periwinkle
Vinca major [Apocynaceae]
Contain cardiac glycosides (see pages
35-43). 43).
Contain grayanotoxins. Signs (usually
appear with 6 hours of ingestion):
depression, salivation, colic, seizures,
heart irregularities and incoordination.
Usually not fatal unless large amounts
of the plant have been eaten.
Azalea
Rhododendrons and azaleas
Rhododendron spp [Ericaceae]
Sheep laurel (lambkill)
Kalmia angustifolia [Ericaceae]
Mountain laurel (calico bush)
Kalmia latifolia [Ericaceae]
Pieris (lily of the valley shrub)
Pieris spp [Ericaceae]
Oleander
Foxglove
Hydrangea
Hydrangea macrophylla [Hydrangeaceae]
Contains potentially toxic alkaloids,
saponins, resins and the plant can
accumulate cyanogenic glycosides (see
pages 30-34).
Signs: Severe gastrointestinal irritation
characterised by colic and diarrhoea
that may contain blood. Seek
immediate veterinary attention if
hydrangea poisoning is suspected.
Hydrangeas have been responsible for a
small number of horse poisoning cases
overseas and only a very small amount
of ingested leaves can prove fatal.
Hydrangea
100
Ornamentals
Contain cyanogenic glycosides (see
pages 30-34).
These plants contain cells known
as idioblasts. Inside the cells are
sharp, needle-like crystals of calcium
oxalate that are packed in a gelatinous
material. When the plant material is
chewed, saliva or plant sap can enter
the idioblasts. The gelatinous material
swells and this causes the calcium
oxalate crystals to shoot out of the
idioblasts. The crystals can penetrate
the tongue, throat and the inside of the
mouth to cause severe irritation. Some
of these plants also contain chemicals
that aggravate the symptoms by causing
an inammatory response. Signs (can
appear immediately or within hours
of ingestion): head shaking, salivation,
mouth and tongue swelling, depression.
In very rare cases the swelling can cause
airway obstruction. Affected animals
may take days to fully recover. If
poisoning is suspected, rinse the horses
mouth with water and seek veterinary
attention.
Common elder
Sambucus nigra [Caprifoliaceae]
Plums, peaches, apricots,
cherries, nectarines, almonds
Prunus spp [Amygdalaceae]
Spotted fuchsia
Eremophila maculata [Myoporaceae]
Wattles
Acacia spp [Fabaceae]
Christmas rose
(stinking hellebore, Corsican hellebore,
winter rose)
Helleborus niger [Ranunculaceae]
Contains cardiac glycosides (see pages
35-43), protoanemonin (see page 44)
and other toxins.
Signs (usually occur soon after
ingestion): colic and other
gastrointestinal problems. Neurological
problems such as incoordination might
be seen. Seek veterinary attention if
Christmas rose poisoning is suspected.
Common elder
Arum lily growing in a horse paddock
Elephants ear
Wattle owers
Dumb cane
Dieffenbachia seguine [Araceae]
Caladium
Caladium bicolor [Araceae]
Philodendrons
Philodendron spp [Araceae]
Arum lily
(calla lily, pig lily)
Zantedeschia aethiopica [Araceae]
Peace lily
Spathiphyllum spp [Araceae]
Elephants ear (cunjevoi)
Alocasia spp [Araceae]
Elephants ear (cocoyam, taro)
Colocasia spp [Araceae]
Green cestrum
Cestrum parqui [Solanaceae]
Night scented jasmine
Cestrum nocturnum [Solanaceae]
Contains carboxyatractyloside (see
pages 46-49).
101
Ornamentals
Clematis
Clematis spp [Ranunculaceae]
Buttercups
Ranunculus sp [Ranunculaceae]
Contain protoanemonin (see page 44).
Contain diterpene alkaloids. Signs
(usually appear within hours of
ingestion): excitement, confusion,
muscle tremors, weakness, collapse,
respiratory paralysis and death. Very
rare in horses in Australia. Important
cause of poisoning in the northern
hemisphere where the plants are
commonly found in pastures, although
cattle are the species most commonly
affected. Seek immediate veterinary
attention if diterpene alkaloid
poisoning is suspected.
Larkspur
Consolida ambigua [Ranunculaceae]
Delphiniums
Delphinium spp [Ranunculaceae]
Monkshood
Aconitum spp [Ranunculaceae]
Daffodils, jonquils, paper
whites
Narcissus spp [Amaryllidaceae]
Clivia
(kafr lily, re lily)
Clivia miniata [Amaryllidaceae]
Snowdrop
Galanthus nivalis [Amaryllidaceae]
Spider lily
(lmy lily, sacred lily of the Incas)
Hymenocallis spp (also known as Ismene
spp) [Amaryllidaceae]
Hippeastrum
(amaryllis, Barbados lily)
Hippeastrum spp [Amaryllidaceae]
Belladonna lily
Amaryllis belladonna [Amaryllidaceae]
Contain several alkaloids with the most
important being lycorine. Signs (usually
appear within 1 hour of ingestion):
Salivation, colic and diarrhoea are the
most commonly seen signs. Ingestion
of large amounts of plant material can
result in low blood pressure, weakness
and incoordination. Most cases usually
recovers within a few hours. If a horse
is observed to eat these plants, do not
give food or water for a few hours and
observe animal for signs of poisoning.
Seek veterinary attention.
Clivia.
Buttercups
Daffodils
Deadly nightshade
(belladonna)
Atropa belladonna [Solanacea]
Angels trumpets
Brugmansia spp [Solanacea]
Corkwoods
Duboisia spp [Solanaceae]
Contain tropane alkaloids (see pages
21-25).
Angels trumpet
102
Ornamentals
Contain quinolizidine alkaloids (see
pages 26-28).
Contain lectins (see page 55-59).
Contain triterpenoid saponins. Signs:
most cases result in mild diarrhoea.
Cases usually recover within 24 hours.
In more severe cases colic might
develop. Seek veterinary attention.
Day jasmine
Cestrum diurnum [Solanaceae]
Contain calcinogenic glycosides (see
page 50).
Ivy.
Broom.
Wisteria.
Oaks
Quercus spp [Fagaceae]
Contain tannic acid (see page 53).
Oak acorns
Golden chain tree
Laburnum anagyroides [Fabaceae]
Ornamental lupins
Lupinus spp [Fabacea]
Brooms
Cytisus spp and Genista spp[Fabaceae]
Wisteria
Wisteria oribunda and Wisteria sinensis
[Fabaceae]
Black locust
Robinia pseudoacacia [Fabaceae]
Bellyache bush
Jatropha spp [Euphorbiaceae]
Holly
Ilex aquifolium Aquifoliacea]
English ivy, common ivy
Hedera helix [Araliaceae]
Corn cockle, corn pink
Agrostemma githago [Caryophyllaceae]
Holly.
103
Ornamentals
Contain meliatoxins (see page 66).
Contain pyridine alkaloids (see page 29).
Contain diterpene esters (see pages
64-65).
Contains unknown toxins (see page 67).
Contain taxine alkaloids (see page 20).
Contain persin (see page 76).
Contains unknown toxins (see page 82).
Contain -amino proprionitrile
(BAPN). Signs: hopping gait, weight
shifted to front legs, stiffness in
hindquarters and roaring (laryngeal
hemiplegia). Signs are largely
irreversible. Surgery may correct
roaring. Horses are sensitive to this
toxin but are only likely to develop
signs of poisoning if large quantities
of the plants are consumed over a long
period.
Sweet pea
Sweet pea
Lathyrus odoratus [Fabaceae]
Perennial pea
(everlasting pea, everlasting sweetpea)
Lathyrus latifolius [Fabaceae]
Privets
Ligustrum spp [ Oleaceae]
Privet
Avocado
Persea americana [Lauraceae]
English yew
Taxus baccata [Taxaceae]
Black bean
(Moreton Bay chestnut)
Castanospermum australe [Fabaceae]
Black bean. Photo: Pat Offord
Poinsettia
Euphorbia pulcherrima [Euphorbiaceae]
Lobelias
Lobelia spp [Lobeliaceae]
White cedar
Melia azedarach [Meliaceae]
White cedar
104
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3

109
Glossary of terms
Activated charcoal - A form of charcoal that has been treated with oxygen. Activated charcoal has millions of tiny
holes that make it very porous and able to absorb other substances. Activated charcoal administered to a horse after the
ingestion of toxic plant material can reduce the affects of the ingested toxins by absorbing them from the gut before
they pass through the gut wall and into the bloodstream. Activated charcoal is not digested and it passes safely through
the body carrying the toxic substances with it.
Acute - An illness or disease that has a fast onset and lasts for a short period of time. Acute poisoning is characterised
by a sudden onset of symptoms that quickly increase in severity. Acute poisoning can resolve through recovery or
death, but if symptoms continue for a long period of time it is then referred to as chronic.
Agronomist - An expert in the managament of soils, crops and pastures.
Annual - A plant that completes its entire lifecycle through one growing season or year.
Biennial - A plant that completes its entire lifecycle in 2 growing seasons or years.
Chronic - An illness or disease that is long-lasting, and sometimes recurring. Chronic poisoning is usually characterised
by a gradual onset of symptoms that progress slowly in severity. Chronic poisoning can resolve through recovery or
death.Symptoms may remain or recur throughout the life of a horse that eventually dies from other causes.
Colic - A general term that describes abdominal pain in the horse. Colic can range in severity from mild to severe and
there are many potential causes of colic in horses. Colic is a common symptom of plant poisoning in horses. A horse
that is suffering from colic may frequently look at it sides and kick at its abdomen or stamp its feet. It may also strain to
pass faeces, roll frequently and violently and have an increased pulse rate and breathing rate.
Declared noxious weed - A plant that has been targeted for contol because it causes or has the potential to cause
signicant adverse economic, environmental or social impacts. Declared noxious weeds are included in various forms
of government legislation in order to prevent or minimise the damage that they may cause. This legislation is usually
enacted at the state level and is monitored and enforced at local government level. [Reference: Declared plants of Australia:
An Identication and Information System. (2004)]. More information on declared noxious weeds can be obtained from your
local council or your state Department of Agriculture.
Enzymes - Specialised proteins that are necessary for the many naturally occurring biochemical reactions that occur
in living organisms. For example, digestive enzymes in the gut speed up the rate at which food is broken down and
digested.
Fertiliser - A substance used to enrich the soil with essential nutrients. Fertilisers improve the health of plants resulting
in increased growth rates and higher yields of fruits or seeds.
Herbicide - Substances used to control or destroy unwanted plants. Selective herbicides kill only target plants and have
no effect on other plant species. Non-selective herbicides kill all plant species with which they come into contact.
Incoordination - An inability to control the movements of the body, particularly the limbs. Also known as ataxia.
Jaundice - Can occur as a result of conditions that adversely affect the liver or that cause an excessive breakdown of red
blood cells. Jaundice is characterised by a yellow colouring of the skin and in the horse this is especially noticeable in the
mucous membranes (inside surfaces of the mouth and nose). The yellow colouring is due to abnormally high levels of
the bile pigment bilirubin. Jaundice is also known as icterus.
Lethargy - Sluggishness or abnormal drowsiness. A lethargic horse may be unable to exercise at its normal level of
activity.
Metabolism - The total of all chemical changes that take place in a cell or an organism. These chemical changes produce
energy and basic materials needed for important life processes.
Naturalised - An introduced plant species (non-native) that has become established after its accidental or deliberate
introduction.
Ornamental plant - A plant grown for its foliage or owers rather than for food, pasture or other economic use.
Palatable - Pleasant tasting.
Perennial - A plant that lives for more than 2 years.
Taxonomist - A person who specialises in classisfying plants or animals.
Toxin - A chemical that acts as a poison and causes illness in an animal.
110
Glossary of botanic features
Triangular-shaped Oval or egg-shaped Lance-shaped Heart-shaped
Leaf shapes
Leaf edges
Serrated or toothed Lobed
Leaf arrangement
Opposite Alternate
Alternately sheathed
Rosette
Smooth or entire Deeply divided
Whorl of leaves
111
Flower types
Daisy-shaped Pea-shaped Tubular
Growth habit
Other plant features
Upright
Prostrate or creeping
Decumbent
Seedpod
Rhizome
Stolon
112
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<http://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/avh/>. Accessed January 2006.
117
Index
-amino proprionitrile 103
A
Abrus precatorius 56
Acacia spp 33
Acer rubrum 88
Aconitum spp 101
Acremonium lolii 92
Acroptilon repens 83
Adonis 43
Adonis microcarpa 43
Aatoxins 95
Aatoxicosis 95
African star grass 33
Ageratina adenophora 68
Ageratina riparia 69
Agrostemma githago 102
Agrostis avenacea 98
Alcohols and Acids 51-54
Alkali disease 81
Alkaloids 7-29
Allium spp 60
Almonds 31
Alocasia spp 100
Alsike clover 79
Amaryllis belladonna 101
Amsinckias 16
Angels trumpet 23
Anguina funesta 97
Annual beardgrass 98
Annual ryegrass 97
Ant bush 77
Apple of Sodom 73
Apricots 31
Arsenic bush 77
Arsenic weed 78
Arum lily 100
Asclepias spp 40
Aspergillus spp 95
Atropa belladonna 101
Australian stringhalt 70
Autumn pheasants eye 43
Avocado 76
Azaleas 99
B
Barbados lily 101
Barooga weed 16
Bathurst burr 47
Beans 58
Belladonna 101
Belladonna lily 101
Bellyache bush 57
Big head 51-52
Birdsville horse disease 89
Birdsfoot trefoil 33
Birdsville indigo 89
Bishops beard 14
Bitter apple 75
Black bean 67
Blackberry nightshade 72
Black locust 57
Black physic nut 57
Black-spined nightshade 73
Black vomit nut 58
Blown grass 98
Bluebush pea 11
Blue canary grass 17
Blue heliotrope 14
Blue periwinkle 42
Blueweed 83
Brachiaria decumbens 52
Brachiaria mutica 52
Brachyachne convergens 35
Bracken 61
Branched onion weed 85
Brazilian stinging nut 58
Broad beans 58
Brooms 27
Broughton pea 19
Brugmansia spp 23
Bryophyllum spp 38
Buffalo burr 74
Buffel grass 51
Burrweed 47
Buttercups 44
C
Caladium bicolor 100
Calcinogenic glycosides 50
Calcium oxalate 100
Calico bush 99
California fern 25
Californian burr 46
Calla lily 100
Caltha 44
Canary broom 28
Cape broom 28
Cape lilac 66
Cape tulips 39
Captain Cook tree 36
Carboxyatractyloside 46-49
Cardiac glycosides 35-43
Carrot fern 25
Cascabela thevetia 36
Cassia obtusifolia 78
Cassia occidentalis 77
Cassia tora 78
Castanospermum australe 67
Castor oil plant 55
Caterpillar weed 14
Catsear 70
Cats paw 69
Catweed 68
Celery-leaf buttercup 44
Cenchrus ciliaris 51
Centaurea repens 83
Centaurea solstitialis 84
Cestrum diurnum 50
Cestrum nocturnum 49
Cestrum parqui 48
Cheilanthes spp 63
Cherries 31
Chewing disease 83-84
Chillagoe horse disease 75
Chillagoe horse poison 75
Chinaberry 66
Chinese senna 78
Chinkerichee 42
Chive 60
Christmas rose 100
Clasping heliotrope 14
Claviceps paspali 93
Clematis 44, 101
Clivia 101
Clotbur 47
Cockle burr 46
Cocoyam 100
Coffee senna 77
Coffee weed 78
Colocasia spp 100
Columbus grass 32
Common bindweed 21
Common cocklebur 47
Common elder 100
Common heliotrope 14
Common ivy 102
Common ragwort 12
Common thornapple 22
Conium maculatum 25
Consolida ambigua 101
Convallaria majalis 99
Convolvulus arvensis 21
Cook tree 36
Coondai couch 33
Corkwood 23
Corn cockle 102
Corn pink 102
Corsican hellebore 100
Corynetoxins 97-98
Cotton bushes 40
Cotton leaf physic nut 57
Couch grasses 33
Crabs eye 56
Creeping crofton weed 69
Creeping heliotrope 14
Creeping indigo 89
Creeping knapweed 83
Crofton weed 68
Crotalarias 9
Chillagoe horse disease 75
Crotalaria aridicola ssp. aridicola 75
Crotalaria brevis 11
Crotalaria crispata 9
Crotalaria dissitiora 9
118
Crotalaria eremaea 11
Crotalaria juncea 10
Crotalaria linifolia 10
Crotalaria medicaginea var. neglecta 75
Crotalaria mitchellii 10
Crotalaria montana 10
Crotalaria novae-hollandiae 10
Crotalaria pallida 10
Crotalaria ramosissima 9
Crotalaria retusa 10
Crotalaria spectabilis 10
Crotalaria trifoliastrum 75
Crotalaria verrucosa 10
Crow garlic 60
Cryptostegia grandiora 37
Cryptostegia madagascariensis 37
Cuban physic nut 58
Cunjevoi 100
Curcas bean 58
Cursed crowsfoot 44
Cyanide 30
Cyanogenic glycosides 30-34
Cynodon convergens 33
Cynodon nlemfuensis 33
Cynodon plectostachyus 33
Cytisus monspellulanus 28
Cytisus scoparius 27
D
Daffodils 107
Daggerweed 47
Dandelion 71
Datura spp 22
Day blooming cestrum 50
Day jasmine 50
Day jessamine 50
Deadly nightshade 107
Dead Sea apple 73
Delphiniums 101
Dendrocnide moroides 91
Diaporthe toxica 96
Dicky plant 36
Dieffenbachia seguine 100
Digitalis purpurea 41
Digitaria decumbens 51
Digitaria eriantha ssp. pentzii 51
Ditchbur 46
Diterpene alkaloids 101
Diterpene esters 64-65
Downy thornapple 22
Duboisia leichhardtii 24
Duboisia myoporoides 23
Dumb cane 100
Dune onion weed 85
Dwarf darling pea 19
E
Echium plantagineum 8
Elder 100
Elephants ear 100
Endophyte 92, 93, 94
English broom 27
English ivy 102
English yew 20
Equine leukoencephalomalacia 96
Equine nigropallidal
encephalomalacia 83
Equisetum spp 63
Eremophila maculata 32
Eupatorium adenophorum 68
Eupatorium glandulosum 68
Eupatorium pasdadense 68
Eupatorium riparium 69
Euphorbia peplus 65
Euphorbia pulcherrima 103
Euphorbia terracina 64
European cocklebur 46
European heliotrope 14
Everlasting pea 103
Eye opening tree 23
F
Faba beans 59
False acacia 57
False caper 64
False dandelion 70
Fiddlenecks 16
Field bindweed 21
Field morning glory 21
Filmy lily 101
Fierce thornapple 22
Fire lily 101
Fireweed 12
Flatweed 70
Flax 34
Foetid cassia 78
Fools parsley 25
Foxglove 41
French broom 28
Fumonisins 95
Fusarium moniliforme 96
Fusarium verticillioides 96
G
Galanthus nivalis 101
Garlic 60
Genista monspessulana 28
Geraldton carnation weed 62
Gidee-Gidee 56
Glycoalkaloids 50, 72
Glycosides 30-50
Golden chain tree 27
Golden star thistle 84
Gomphocarpus spp 40
Gomphrena celosioides 92
Gomphrena weed 86
Grain legumes 58
Grain sorghum 32
Grayanotoxins 99
Greater periwinkle 42
Green cestrum 48
Green poisonberry 48
Grey rattlepod 9
Grey swainsona 19
Guinea grass 45, 52
Gympie stinger 91
H
Hairy darling pea 19
Hairy thornapple 22
Hardheads 83
Hedera helix 102
Hedgehog burweed 46
Heliotropes 14
Heliotropium amplexicaule 14
Heliotropium coromandelianum var.
ovalifolium 15
Heliotropium europaeum 14
Heliotropium gracile 15
Heliotropium ovalifolium 15
Helleborus niger 44
Hemlock 25
Hindu thornapple 22
Hippeastrum spp 101
Holly 102
Homeria accida 39
Homeria miniata 39
Horsetails 63
Hunter burr 46
Hydrangea 99
Hydrangea macrophylla 99
Hymenocallis spp 101
Hypericum perforatum 54
Hypochaeris glabra 71
Hypochaeris radicata 70
I
Ilex aquifolium 102
Indian rubber vine 37
Indigofera linnaei 89
Indigofera spicata 89
Indolizidine alkaloids 18-20
Ipomoea spp 21
Ismene spp 101
Italian cocklebur 46
Ivy 102
J
Jatropha 57
Jatropha curcas 58
Jatropha gossypifolia 57
Java bean 78
Jequirity bean 56
Johnson grass 31
Jonquils 101
K
Kafr lily 101
Kalmia angustifolia 99
Kalmia latifolia 99
Kidney beans 58
Kikuyu 52
119
Kimberly horse disease 9
Kimberly horse poison 9
Knapweed 83
L
Laburnum anagyroides 27
Lachnagrostis liformis 98
Lady Campbell weed 8
Lambkill 99
Large cocklebur 46
Larkspur 101
Lathyrus latifolius 103
Lathyrus odoratus 103
Leafy spurges 64
Lectins 55-59
Leek 60
Leukoencephalomalacia 96
Ligustrum spp 82
Lily of the valley 99
Lima bean 59
Linseed 34
Linum usitatissimum 34
Lobelia 29
Lobelia spp 29
Locust tree 57
Lolium perenne 92
Lolium rigidum 97
Lotus corniculatus 33
Lucky nut 36
Lupins 28
Piperidine alkaloid
poisoning 25
Lupinosis 96
Lupinus spp 26
Lycopersicon esculentum 74
Lycorine 101
M
Madagascar ragwort 12
Madagascar rubber vine 37
Madeira broom 28
Malva parviora 87
Maple, red 88
Mapoon bush 81
Marsilea drummondii 62
Melia azedarach 66
Meliatoxins 66
Mexican devil 68
Mexican oleander 36
Milk weed 65
Mistower 69
Monkshood 101
Montpellier broom 28
Moraea accida 39
Moraea miniata 39
Moreton Bay chestnut 67
Morinda reticulata 81
Morning glory 21
Mother of millions 38
Mountain laurel 99
Mulberry-leaved stinger 91
Mycotoxins 92-96
N
Narcissus spp 101
Nardoo 62
Narrowleaf rattlepod 10
Native couch 33
Native fuchsia 32
Native thornapple 22
Nectarines 31
Neotyphodium lolii 92, 94
Neptunia amplexicaulis 81
Nerium oleander 35
New Holland rattlepod 10
Nicotiana spp 29
Piperidine alkaloid
poisoning 25
Nicotine 29
Nigerian senna 77
Night jessamine 49
Night scented jasmine 49
Nightshades 72
Noogoora burr 46
Numinbah horse sickness 68
Nutritional Secondary
Hyperparathyroidism 51
O
Oaks 53
Oleander 35
One leaf cape tulip 39
Onion 60
Ornithogalums 42
Ornithogalum spp 42
P
Pangola grass 51
Panicum antidotale 45
Panicum coloratum 45
Panicum maximum 45, 52
Panicum miliaceum 45
Panicum muticum 52
Panicum virgatum 45
Panicum spp 45, 52
Paper whites 101
Paradoxa grass 17
Para grass 52
Paspalum 93
Paspalum staggers 93
Patersons curse 8
Peace lily 100
Peaches 33
Pennisetum clandestinum 52
Perennial pea 103
Perennial ryegrass 92
Perennial ryegrass staggers 92
Persea americana 76
Persian lilac 66
Petty spurge 65
Phalaris coerulescens 17
Phalaris paradoxa 17
Phaseolus limensis 58
Phaseolus lunatus 58
Phaseolus vulgaris 58
Pheasants eye 43
Philodendrons 100
Physic nut 58
Pieris 99
Pig lily 100
Piperidine alkaloids 25, 26
Pissabed 71
Plums 31
Poinsettia 64
Poison apple 73
Poison buttercup 44
Poison corkwood 23
Poisonous corkwood 24
Poison root 25
Polypogon monspeliensis 98
Potatoes 74
Potato weed 14
Pregnant onion 42
Prickly burrweed 47
Privets 82
Propyl disulde 60
Proteins and Amino acids 55-63
Protoanemonin 44
Prunus spp 31
Prussic acid 30
Pteridium spp 61
Pulses 58
Purge nut 58
Purple-owered rattlepod 10
Purple bugloss 8
Purple pigeon grass 52
Purple rubber vine 37
Purpletop 14
Pyridine alkaloids 29
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids 7-16
Q
Queensland duboisia 24
Quercus spp 53
Quinolizidine alkaloids 26-28
Quinones 54
R
Ragwort 12
Ranunculus sceleratus 44
Rathayibacter toxicus 97
Red chamomile 43
Red clover 79
Red maple 88
Rhododendrons 99
Ricinus communis 55
River eupatorium 69
Riverina bluebell 8
Robinia pseudoacacia 57
Rock ferns 63
Rosary bean 56
Rough cocklebur 46
Rubber vine 37
Russian knapweed 83
120
S
Sacred lily of the Incas 101
Salvation Jane 8
Sambucus nigra 100
Scotch broom 27
Selenium poisoning 81
Selenium weed 81
Senecio amarillo 12
Senecio jacobaea 12
Senecio madagascariensis 12
Senecios 12
Senna 77
Senna obtusifolia 78
Senna occidentalis 77
Senna tora 78
Septicweed 77
Setarias 51
Setaria incrassata 52
Setaria sphacelata 51
Shallot 60
Sheeps burr 46
Sheep laurel 99
Showy rattlepod 10
Sicklepod 78
Signal grass 52
Silver horsenettle 73
Silverleaf nightshade 73
small crofton weed 69
Small owered mallow 87
Small fruited pheasants eye 43
Smooth catsear 71
Smooth darling pea 18
Smooth atweed 71
Snowdrop 101
Soft khaki weed 86
Solanum hermannii 73
Solanum linnaeanum 73
Solanum nigrum 72
Solanum rostratum 74
Solanums 72
Solanum sodemeum 73
Solanum tuberosum 74
Soluble oxalates 51-52
Sorghum 31
Sorghum bicolor 32
Sorghum drummondii 32
Sorghum halepense 31
Sorghum halepense x almum 32
Sorghum sudanense 32
South Africa pigeon grass 51
Spanish thistle 47
Spathiphyllum spp 100
Spider grass 33
Spider lily 101
Spiny burweed 47
Spiny cocklebur 47
Spiny nightshade 74
Spotted emu bush 32
Spotted fuchsia 32
Spurges 64
Stagger wort 12
Star of Bethlehem 42
St Barnabys thistle 84
Steroidal saponins 45
Sticky eupatorium 68
Sticky snakeroot 68
Stinging nettles 90
Stinking hellebore 100
Stinking pea 77
Stinking willy 12
Stinkweed 77
St James wort 12
St Johns wort 54
Strapweed 85
Streaked rattlepod 10
Stringhalt, Australian 70
Sudan grass 32
Sunhemp 10
Swainsona 18
Swainsona canescens 19
Swainsona galegifolia 18
Swainsona greyana 19
Swainsona luteola 19
Swainsona procumbens 19
Swainsona queenslandica 18
Sweet pea 103
T
Tallebudgera horse disease 68
Tannic acid 53
Tansy ragwort 12
Taraxacum ofcinale 71
Taro 100
Taxine alkaloids 20
Taxus baccata 20
Teline monspessulana 28
Terpenes 64-66
Terracina spurge 64
Texas umbrella tree 66
Thevetia nereifolia 36
Thevetia peruviana 36
Tiaminase 61-63
Thornapples 22
Thorny burweed 47
Three cornered garlic 60
Tobacco 29
Tomatoes 74
Trachyandra divaricata 85
Trefoil rattlepod 75
Trifolium hybridum 80
Trifolium pratense 79
Triterpenoid saponins 102
Tropane alkaloids 21-25, 48, 49, 50
Tryptamine alkaloids 17
Tulip cedar 66
Turnsole 14
Two leaf cape tulip 39
U
Umbrella cedar 66
Urochloa decumbens 52
Urochloa mutica 52
Urtica spp 90
V
Vicia faba 59
Vinca major 42
W
Walkabout disease 9
Wanderie curse 14
Wattles 33
Wedge-leaf rattlepod 10
White cedar 66
White cestrum 50
White weed 69
Wild carrot 25
Wild heliotrope 14
Wild parsnip, 25
Wild verbena 14
Willow jasmine 48
Willow leaved jessamine 48
Winter fern 25
Winter rose 100
Wisteria 102
Wode whistle 25
X
Xanthium spinosum 47
Xanthium strumarium 46
Y
Yellow basswood 23
Yellow burrweeds 16
Yellow cockspur 84
Yellow locust 57
Yellow oleander 36
Yellow rattlepod 10
Yellow star thistle 84
Yew 20
Z
Zantedeschia aethiopica 100
121
xx
Mellisa Offord
RIRDC Publication No. 06/048
This book is a guide for horse owners to help them
prevent plant poisoning in their horses. It clearly outlines
the factors that inuence the risk of plant poisoning and
the ways to reduce this risk. The types of toxins that can
be found in plants are discussed, along with the signs of
poisoning that may be seen in horses that have ingested
toxic plant material.
A description of each plant is provided, including
structure, growth habit and identifying features.
Management notes suggest ways of dealing with
poisonous plants on properties.
The book includes a comprehensive list of ornamental
plants that are known to be toxic to horses.
The reference list is a useful resource for further reading
and includes the journal articles, industry papers, books,
CD Roms and Internet resources that were used to create
this publication.
This guide is an addition to RIRDCs diverse range of
over 1500 research publications. It forms part of our
Horse Research and Development Program which aims to
assist the Australian horse industry.
Most of our publications are available for viewing,
downloading or purchasing online through our website:
ww.rirdc.gov.au
Rural Industries Research and Development
Corporation
Level 2, 15 National Circuit
Barton ACT 2600
PO Box 4776
Kingston ACT 2604
Phone: 02 6272 4819
Fax: 02 6272 5877
Email: rirdc@rirdc.gov.
au
Web: www.rirdc.gov.a

Plants Poisonous To Horses

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Plants Poisonous To Horses

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An Australian Field Guide

Plants Poisonous to Horses

New environment: Horses that have been moved

Age and general health of the horse: Young and old

Weed seeds, root or stem fragments can also be

Cultivation of paddocks is sometimes the only option

Grazing management to control poisonous weed species

Ensure that potentially poisonous weeds and the

HOR - 06-048 Plants Poisonous to3 3 2/06/2006 9:26:00 AM

some of these agencies provide. You can nd out more

HOR - 06-048 Plants Poisonous to5 5 2/06/2006 9:26:00 AM

via the bloodstream to the liver. The

This horse is suffering crotalaria poisoning and is

Photos: Matthew Smyth

spikes appear at the tips of the branches from

Found on coastal plains

Some species of Amsinckia

Weed of crops pastures,

and some horses may be so

In the nal stages the horse will

Yew trees and shrubs

Rapid pulse and respiratory rate

A full recovery is the usual outcome

owers appear singly in the forks of the branches.

HOR - 06-048 Plants Poisonous to22 22 2/06/2006 9:26:53 AM

Poison corkwood is native to Australia.

Grows in native bushland

In severe cases the horse may die

Veterinary attention should be sought

Lupins that contain

produces brown or black seedpods that are

Coma, paralysis and death in severe

glycoside formation in plants.

Signs of cyanogenic glycoside poisoning

death occurs. In many reported cases

HOR - 06-048 Plants Poisonous to30 30 2/06/2006 9:27:33 AM

Other plants that can accumulate cyanogenic glycosides:

HOR - 06-048 Plants Poisonous to34 34 2/06/2006 9:27:56 AM

Supportive care and treatments such

where horses are kept.

Drought resistant and

smaller and are a deeper pink colour than those

Most species of Bryophyllum are known as mother

The owers are white in most species and they

Weed of pastures, crops

In mild cases of protoanemonin

A weed that grows mainly

antidotale), coolah grass (Panicum coloratum), guinea

HOR - 06-048 Plants Poisonous to45 45 2/06/2006 9:28:51 AM

There is no known treatment for

HOR - 06-048 Plants Poisonous to48 48 2/06/2006 9:29:11 AM

The plant produces eshy berries that are small

Irregular and rapid heartbeat

glycosides has been removed from the

Removal of the horse from the

HOR - 06-048 Plants Poisonous to52 52 2/06/2006 9:29:28 AM

Head pressing - the horse may

Veterinary attention should be sought

English oak (Quercus robur) - mature tree (above), bark (top