Welcome to this week’s edition of the a-z of plants that don’t like your horse. Today’s plant isn’t as common as some, but it is one that poses special problems for horse owners because of one crucial factor, it tastes good. Pokeweed is an interesting looking plant & one that your horse will actively search out for grazing.
A Little About Pokeweed
Phytolacca americana is also called Common Pokeweed. This is a perennial that looks tree-like & can grow up to ten feet tall. The stalk is smooth, hollow & deep red/ purple. Leaves are large, elliptical & alternate on stem. Flowers grow in drooping clusters & are white/ green. Fruit is purple, grape-like & droops from the plant.
How Dangerous Is It?
This plant is highly dangerous simply due to its palatability. Horses will eat it, even when there is toxic-free forage available to them. This is one plant that it pays to recognize.
All parts of this plant are toxic (highest concentration of toxin in the roots) & can be fatal to equines.
What To Look For
You know your animal the best, so you should know when something is amiss. Pokeweed toxicity symptoms include burning of the mouth, stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, gastrointestinal upset, colic, birth defects & tumors.
Learn More
Be sure to check out the Pokeweed page to learn more about the plant & while you are at it why not check out more toxic plants?
*It should be noted that we’re not veterinarians. This information is written specifically for horses & should be used for reference purposes only. If you think your horse has eaten something toxic call your vet right away.