Laurels
"Lauraceae'

This plant family is mainly from tropical regions such as southeast Asia and South America. Most of this species of plant are evergreen trees and srubs, but some are parasitic vines. They are important components of tropical forests with a range of low-lying to highland locations. It is estimated that the total number of species in the Lauraceae over three thousand and possibly four thousand.

Since there are many different species of Laurels the classification of this plant family is difficult. They have always been considered a primeval group of flowering plant. Leaves are often rubbery and thick with clusters of flowers that are pink or white. Some species will have berries that are often red.

Toxic To Horses

All types of laurel are toxic to horses, ponies and other grazing animals such as goats and sheep. Horses will often stay away from this plant family unless there is few grasses to graze on or if it is growing near and in their usual grazing area. Poisoning will occur if the leaves, stems or flowers of a laurel are ingested.

Symptoms

Symptoms of laurel poisoning include quickened or slow heart beat, difficulty breathing, wheezing, vomiting, weakness, loss of condition, collapse, cardiac or respiratory failure and death.

Poisonous Plants | Horse Health

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